Reported by: S. Ernest.
Date: 19th February, 2025.
Lusaka, Zambia.
The Zambian government has reaffirmed its support for the Ngoni Royal Establishment in Feira, Luangwa, as part of the pre-celebrations for the N’cwala Ceremony.
The event, which commemorates the historic crossing of the Luangwa River by the Ngoni people into Zambia, saw active government involvement in ensuring a smooth and secure commemoration.
Speaking at the event, Lusaka Province Permanent Secretary, Mr. Robert Kamalata, highlighted the government’s commitment to the people of Feira and the Ngoni-speaking community.
“In recognition of the importance of this historic occasion, the government deployed Marines and divers to ensure safe passage across the Luangwa River. Their presence is a testament to the government’s dedication to preserving cultural heritage and ensuring the safety of all attendees,” Mr. Kamalata stated.
He further emphasized that due to the significance of the event, large crowds were expected in Feira, prompting the government to deploy additional security personnel.
“We anticipated an influx of visitors, given that Feira is a sparsely populated area. To maintain order and safety, the government has increased the presence of security officers, ensuring they match the growing numbers of attendees,” he explained.
Beyond cultural significance, the event is also bringing notable economic benefits to the Feira region. Mr. Kamalata expressed satisfaction with the impact on the local economy, noting that for the first time, all lodges and small accommodation facilities were fully booked, with some residents even opening their homes to accommodate visitors.
“This is an economic breakthrough for Feira. The increased number of visitors is creating business opportunities for the hospitality and tourism sectors. As this celebration grows in prominence, we expect even more economic gains in the years to come,” he added.
The N’cwala Ceremony is a major cultural event for the Ngoni people, celebrated annually to honor their heritage, resilience, and the historic journey that brought them to Zambia.
The government’s continued support reflects its commitment to preserving traditional customs while fostering economic development in rural communities.
The Agency