The Central African Federation was established in 1953 as a semi-autonomous political entity comprising Northern Rhodesia (now Zambia), Nyasaland (now Malawi), and Southern Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe). The federation aimed to streamline governance and promote economic development across these territories. However, it faced significant challenges due to ethnic divisions and differing political aspirations among its member regions. By the early 1960s, nationalist sentiments grew stronger, leading to increased demands for independence and self-rule.

As the federation faced mounting pressure from nationalist movements, the British government recognized the need to dissolve it. The federation officially disbanded on December 31, 1963, marking an important turning point in southern Africa's political landscape. The territories quickly transitioned to self-governance, with Northern Rhodesia declaring independence as Zambia on October 24, 1964, and Nyasaland adopting the name Malawi on July 6, 1964. Southern Rhodesia would struggle with its path to independence, facing internal conflict that would ultimately lead to a protracted liberation war.

The end of the Central African Federation symbolized the broader wave of decolonization sweeping across Africa in the 20th century, as many nations sought to assert their sovereignty and establish their identities. It highlighted the challenges of artificial political boundaries imposed during colonial rule and sparked significant socio-political changes in the region. The legacies of these changes are still evident today, shaping the national narratives of Zambia, Malawi, and Zimbabwe.