TODAY IN HISTORY: 22 OCTOBER 1964 — UNITED NATIONS WELCOMES ZAMBIA’S INDEPENDENCE
On this day, 22 October 1964, the United Nations welcomed the impending independence of Northern Rhodesia, just two days before the territory officially became the Republic of Zambia.
The historic development came as Northern Rhodesia prepared to end British colonial rule after decades of nationalist struggle.
Kenneth Kaunda was serving as Prime Minister, while preparations were underway for the official independence ceremony scheduled for 24 October 1964 in Lusaka.
Across the territory, independence celebrations were already taking place as people prepared to witness the birth of a new African nation.
On 24 October 1964, the British Union Jack was lowered and the Zambian national flag raised, marking the birth of the Republic of Zambia, with Kenneth Kaunda becoming its first President.
Today, 62 years later, Zambia remembers the historic events that paved the way for its independence.