The current provinces were established following Zambia's independence in 1964, although their borders and functions have evolved over time to support the country’s decentralization efforts.

These funds are crucial for the council's operations, which include maintaining infrastructure and delivering services.

Zambia’s provinces are predominantly rural, with only five city councils, namely Lusaka, Ndola, Kitwe, Livingstone and Chipata.

The Zambian government has outlined 63 different functions for the councils, focusing mainly on infrastructure management and local administration.

These functions include maintaining community centers, parks, drainage systems, playgrounds, cemeteries, libraries, museums, and art galleries.

In addition to these responsibilities, councils collaborate with specific government departments to support agriculture, natural resource conservation, postal services, and the establishment and maintenance of hospitals, schools, and colleges.

The councils also prepare schemes to encourage community participation and development at the local level.