[4] Established in 2002, the planning region contains 22 municipalities: 20 local governments and two major cities, the largest being Jelgava.

[7] Zemgale is located within the historical region of Semigallia, which encompasses the southern-central portion of the country.

[8] Zemgale shares a 270 km (170 mi) border with the Republic of Lithuania, which sits directly to its south.

[9] Zemgale is noted for its rich soil, unpolluted resources, and natural areas; 40% of the region is forested.

[9] About half of Zemgale's population lives in the region's two largest cities: Jelgava and Jēkabpils.