Journey through the cultural aspects of Northern Province;

Northern Province, is a region rich in cultural heritage and traditional ceremonies that reflect the deep-rooted history, customs, and beliefs of its people. The province is home to various ethnic groups, including the Bemba, Lungu, Mambwe, and Namwanga, each with its unique cultural practices. These ceremonies are not only celebrations but also a means of preserving the identity and legacy of the tribes. Below are some of the most notable traditional ceremonies in Northern Province.

Ukusefya pa Ng’wena Ceremony

District: Mungwi
Chief: Paramount Chief Chitimukulu
Tribe: Bemba
Month: August

One of the most significant ceremonies in Northern Province is Ukusefya pa Ng’wena. This ceremony is a grand celebration that takes place at Ng’wena Village, the historic site that marks the founding of the Bemba Kingdom after a long migration from the Congo Basin in the 16th to 17th centuries.

Ukusefya pa Ng’wena is more than just a festival; it is a tribute to the resilience, unity, and cultural pride of the Bemba people. The ceremony commemorates the establishment of the Bemba Empire, which grew from a single kingdom to an imposing empire of 43 kingdoms before being amalgamated into 18 colonial native reserves during the colonial era.

The ceremony is held annually at the Ng’wena Village National Monument, which serves as the cultural and historical umbilicus of the Bemba people. The event is marked by various activities, including traditional prayers, cultural performances, a business expo, and a music festival. The highlight of the ceremony is the procession of Bemba kings to the arena, where they pay homage to the Paramount Chief, Chitimukulu. The event also features a detailed narration of the Bemba history, traditional dances, and speeches by dignitaries, including the President of Zambia.

The history and significance of Ukusefya pa Ng’wena are deeply intertwined with the Bemba identity. It is at this site that the Bemba language (IciBemba) and cultural identity (UbuBemba) were carefully crafted. The village is also the birthplace of the Bemba-Ngoni tribal cousinship, a relationship rooted in both historical conflict and mutual respect.

Ukusefya pa Ng’wena is a powerful reminder of the Bemba people’s journey and their enduring cultural legacy. It is a must-see event for anyone interested in understanding the rich cultural tapestry of Northern Province.

Mutomolo Ceremony

District: Mbala
Chiefs: Mambwe/Lungu Chiefs
Tribe: Mambwe/ Lungu
Month: June

The Mutomolo ceremony is celebrated by the Mambwe people of Mbala District every June. This event marks the end of the harvest season and is a time to give thanks to the spirits and ancestors for their blessings. The ceremony includes traditional songs, dances, and rituals, all performed to honor the spirits and seek their favor for the coming year.

Mutomolo is a vibrant and joyous occasion, bringing the community together in a shared expression of gratitude and cultural pride. The ceremony also serves as a vital link between the past and the present, ensuring that the traditions of the Mambwe people are passed on to future generations.

Mukula Pemba Ceremony

District: Lupososhi
Chief: Senior Chieftainess Chungu
Tribe: Bemba
Month: August

The Mukula Pemba ceremony is another important event for the Bemba people, held in Lupososhi District under the leadership of Senior Chieftainess Chungu . Celebrated in August, this ceremony is a time for the Bemba people to come together to honor their chief and celebrate their cultural heritage.

The ceremony includes traditional performances, rituals, and communal feasting. Mukula Pemba is a reflection of the strong communal bonds and cultural values of the Bemba people, emphasizing respect for their leaders and the importance of unity within the tribe.

Chisaka Chalubombo Ceremony

District: Chilubi Island
Chief: Chief Chiwanangala
Tribe: Bisa
Month: September

Chisaka Chalubombo is a traditional ceremony of the Bisa people, celebrated every September on Chilubi Island. This ceremony is held to honor the ancestors and seek their blessings for prosperity and protection. The event includes rituals, traditional dances, and the offering of sacrifices to the spirits.

The Chisaka Chalubombo ceremony is a deeply spiritual event that reflects the Bisa people’s close connection to their land and their ancestors. It is a time of reflection, thanksgiving, and renewal for the community.

Walamo Ceremony

District: Mpulungu (Luwingu)
Chief: Senior Chief Tafuna
Tribe: Lungu
Month: September

The Walamo ceremony, celebrated by the Lungu people in Mpulungu District, is held every September. This event is a celebration of the tribe’s heritage and a time to honor their leaders and ancestors. The ceremony features traditional songs, dances, and rituals that showcase the rich cultural traditions of the Lungu people.

Walamo is a vital cultural event that strengthens the bonds within the community and reinforces the tribe’s cultural identity. It is an opportunity for the Lungu people to come together in a shared expression of pride and unity.

From that brief journey, notice how traditional ceremonies are a vibrant expression of the cultural diversity and historical depth of the region. From the grand Ukusefya pa Ng’wena ceremony of the Bemba people to the spiritual Walomo Ceremony of the Lungu, each event is a testament to the enduring cultural heritage of the province’s various ethnic groups. These ceremonies not only preserve the customs and traditions of the past but also serve as a bridge to the future, ensuring that the rich cultural legacy of Northern Province continues to thrive for generations to come.