Three Things I Learned from Living in a Village in Zambia, Africa
I spent over a year living in a rural village in Zambia as a Peace Corps volunteer. This experience transformed my perspective on life, offering lessons that stand in stark contrast to the fast-paced urban lifestyle of my hometown, Philadelphia. Here are three profound lessons I learned during my time there.
1. Family Is Government
In the village, family is the central unit of governance. The man of the house plays a pivotal role in maintaining and expanding the household. As families grow, he builds new homes and clears additional land for crops. Each family member has a distinct responsibility:
- The mother gathers firewood, often with a baby on her back.
- The girls prepare food and clean the house.
- The boys make bricks and work the fields.
Meals are shared collectively from a single large plate, emphasizing unity. The family functions as a self-contained system of governance, ensuring everyone contributes to maintaining order and stability.
2. Everybody Is an Entrepreneur
Life in the village revolves around self-sufficiency and entrepreneurship. Unlike in modern societies where jobs are defined by institutions, villagers work directly with the land and their environment to meet their needs.
“Whether it’s opening a shop or selling crops from their farms, everyone embodies an entrepreneurial spirit.”
This approach fosters resilience and independence. Each person becomes the master of their trade, finding creative ways to sustain themselves and their families.
3. Community Is Happiness
One of the most striking differences I observed was the profound sense of community and interconnectedness. In the village, roles are deeply intertwined with the well-being of others:
- Teachers educate their neighbor’s children and maintain close ties with their families.
- Church gatherings reinforce shared values of faith, family, and connection to the land.
“The community becomes one big family, thriving together, sharing land, under God.”
In contrast to the disconnection often found in urban environments, village life prioritizes collective happiness. This unity fosters a sense of purpose and fulfillment, where everyone’s contributions directly impact the community’s success.
Final Thoughts
Living in a Zambian village taught me invaluable lessons about family, self-sufficiency, and the true meaning of community. Happiness thrives in simplicity, shared purpose, and deep connections with those around you. These lessons continue to shape how I view life, work, and relationships.