The Wire

Zambia, at its independence in 1964, was potentially one of the richest nations in Africa. It was the third largest copper mine in the world, behind the Soviet Union and the United States. However, today it is one of the poorest countries on the African continent, owing almost $6 billion in foreign debt. The country is experiencing a similar paradox in politics. Its current president is known by enemies and friends alike to be extremely honest, having resigned from politics in the past complaining about corruption. But many of Zambia’s best professionals, such as politicians and engineers, are being decimated by AIDS. Father Peter Henriot has lived in Zambia for the past 17 years, working at social justice-oriented Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection in Lusaka. During a recent visit to Sydney Father Henriot discussed Zambia’s huge potential with The Wire’s Sarah Dingle.