Reported by: S. Ernest.
Date: 19th February, 2025.
Lusaka, Zambia.
The hosting of the first day of the Nc’wala Traditional Ceremony in Luangwa-Feira has been hailed as a major step toward boosting tourism and economic activity in Lusaka Province, with government officials expressing confidence in its long-term benefits.
Lusaka Province Permanent Secretary, Dr. Robert Kamalata, emphasized the event’s significance after thousands gathered in Feira to witness the symbolic crossing of the Zambezi River by Paramount Chief Mpezeni IV of the Ngoni people. The reenactment, which mirrors the historic migration of Ngoni King Zwangendaba into present-day Zambia in 1835, captivated attendees and reinforced the region’s cultural heritage.
Despite the short preparation time, Dr. Kamalata described the event as a remarkable success, crediting the government’s swift response in deploying marine security and divers to ensure safety during the crossing.
“The influx of visitors exceeded expectations, and we implemented extensive security measures to accommodate the large crowds,” he stated.
Beyond its cultural importance, the event provided a significant economic boost to Luangwa, with all accommodation facilities fully booked and local businesses thriving. Dr. Kamalata highlighted this as a testament to the ceremony’s potential in transforming Feira into a major cultural and tourism destination.
Encouraged by the positive impact, the Lusaka Provincial Administration has pledged to host the first leg of the Nc’wala ceremony annually, reinforcing its commitment to leveraging cultural events for economic development.
“For us in Feira and Luangwa, this is a great opportunity, and we stand ready to host this event every year, whether it takes place in February or November. We have demonstrated our capacity to manage the event successfully, with no safety incidents recorded on the river,” Dr. Kamalata affirmed.
From 2025 onward, the Nc’wala Traditional Ceremony will officially begin in Feira, Luangwa, before proceeding to Chipata’s Mutenguleni for its grand celebration. The expansion into a five-day event is expected to attract more visitors and investors, further solidifying Zambia’s position as a key cultural tourism destination.
Picture Credit:MOT
The Agency
