Lusaka is the capital and largest city of Zambia. It is located in the southern part of the central plateau of the country, at an elevation of 1300m (4256ft). It has a population of 1,084,703 (2000 census) and is considered one of the fastest growing (in terms of population) cities in Africa. It is a commercial centre as well as centre of government, and the four main highways of Zambia radiate north, south, east and west from it.