Outline of the geology of Zambia

Abstract

The structural-stratigraphic provinces of Zambia are described with special reference to recent work by the Geo logical Survey. The Tumbide and lrumide deformations are redefined as episodes of the Kibaran Orogeny, and attention is drawn to Kibaran foreland folding within the Bangweulu Block. The Lufilian Arc is shown to be a polyphase structure, and is contrasted with the Mozambique Belt which is believed to be polyorogenic. The continental Karroo sediments preserved in the partly fault-bounded, riftlike structures of the mid-Zambezi, Luangwa and Kafue troughs are briefly described. The presence of Cretaceous beds in Western Zambia and a marine horizon beneath the continental succession are noted.