Kamwala Shopping District
Zambia
At a glance
The Kamwala shopping district is a rather grubby, run down area just off Independence Avenue before the South End Flyover and Roundabout. The shops are traditionally Indian owned and are Aladdin's Caves, full of a fascinating collection of mostly cheap stuff; plastic bowls, enamel mugs, mirrors, combs, music systems, knock of clothing, you name it.
But, this is the place to go to buy fabric. Meters and meters of fabric from silk to cotton. Curtain material to sheeting. This is where to buy lengths of chitenge material, the coloured cloth is traditionally worn as a wraparound skirt but these lengths of brightly coloured cotton can be used for everything from wall decorations to table cloths.
This is not the place to go if you are going to be upset by questionable hygiene and dirt but, if you are happy to immerse yourself in the real Lusaka, this is a must! Just remember your antibacterial wipes to clean your hands when you leave.
