The Big Tree National Monument

The Big Tree National Monument in Kabwe, Zambia, is a historic site centered around an exceptionally large fig tree (Ficus thonningii). During the early colonial period and the beginnings of Kabwe's administrative development, this tree served as a natural meeting point for officials, travelers, and the local community. Important administrative decisions were made and markets were held under its vast canopy before permanent buildings were constructed. Due to its cultural and historical significance, the tree was declared a national monument. It stands as a living symbol of the history of Kabwe, which was once a vital mining hub. Botanically, the monument is impressive for the enormous spread of its branches and the thick bark of its trunk. Today, the area surrounding the tree is protected to ensure its preservation for future generations. Visitors value the site as a shaded oasis of calm amidst the urban environment. It serves as a reminder of a time when nature formed the center of social and administrative life.

Nearby cities

Kabwe

Kabwe, formerly Broken Hill, is the capital of the Central Province and an important transportation hub.

Kapiri Mposhi

Kapiri Mposhi is a major railway junction and transportation hub in the Central Province.

Mumbwa

Mumbwa is a town in the Central Province, situated west of Lusaka along the road to Mongu.

Mkushi

Mkushi is famous for its commercial farming block, making it a key agricultural hub in Zambia.

Serenje

A town in the Muchinga province located along the Great North Road.

Chibombo

Chibombo is a district and town in Central Province, dominated by small-scale farming communities.

History & landmarks

Mulungushi Rock of Authority

A historic open-air site near Kabwe, known as the birthplace of the Zambian independence movement.

TAZARA Railway Terminal Kapiri Mposhi

The imposing terminus of the TAZARA railway line connecting Zambia to the port of Dar es Salaam in Tanzania.

Livingstone Memorial Chitambo

A monument at the site where the heart of the famous explorer David Livingstone was buried.

Kundalila Falls

A picturesque 70-meter fall on the Kaombe River, plunging from the Muchinga Escarpment and offering breathtaking views.

Kasanka National Park

A small but special park famous for hosting the world's largest mammal migration of millions of fruit bats.

Itezhi-Tezhi Dam

An important dam on the Kafue River that serves to regulate water levels for the Kafue Gorge power station.

Nature

Mulungushi River

A river in central Zambia, important for local irrigation and hydro-power potential.

More places

Kabwe Region

A region in central Zambia known for its unique geological and biological features.

Chisamba Forests

A forested area in central Zambia, valued for its biodiversity and timber resources.

Zambeef Meat Processing

One of the largest agribusiness and food processing companies in the region, specializing in meat products.

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Fort Elwes

A stone fort built in 1896 by European prospectors to defend against the Ngoni people.

Luangwa Wildlife Sanctuary

Protected area for endangered animal species.

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Luambe National Park

An intact ecosystem in the Luangwa Valley.

Zambezi Gorge

The deep gorge below Victoria Falls.

Chipata Maize Fields

Center for maize cultivation in the east.