By FELIX KATYETYE
“Luapula’s rainfall is a blessing that must not be taken for granted, I urge all residents to take full advantage of this natural gift and engage in maize farming. By doing so, Luapula can ensure food security for the country.”
The words of Ngoni King Inyandezulu Inkosi Yamakhosi Mphezeni KaZwangendaba, more commonly known as Paramount Chief Mpezeni IV of Zambia’s Eastern Province, East Africa and Malawi’s Mchinji District, as guest of Lunda Paramount Mwata Kazembe XIX Paul Mpemba Kanyembo of Kazembe Lunda kingdom in Mwansabombwe.
Speaking at this year’s Umutomboko traditional ceremony, Mpezeni urged the residents of Luapula Province to capitalize on their favourable rainfall patterns to increase maize production and achieve unprecedented national progress.
He told thousands of visitors that the Umutomboko ceremony as a significant cultural event for the Lunda people provided a fitting platform to highlight the agricultural potential of Luapula.
“With its consistent and reliable rainfall, the region is well-positioned to become a powerhouse in maize production, contributing to food security and economic stability.”
Represented by Chief Madzimawe, Mpezeni stressed the importance of unity and collective effort, transcending regional and tribal differences to build a prosperous and cohesive Zambia.
“Our strength lies in our unity, we must come together as one people, with a shared vision for our nation’s future. Only through unity and cooperation can we achieve development beyond our imagination,” Chief Mpezeni said.
Mpezeni further thanked Mwata Kazembe for preserving the traditional ceremony that has continued to attract participants from neighbouring countries like Congo DR among other African and overseas tourists.
The Umutomboko is a vibrant showcase of Lunda culture and heritage, commemorating the rise to power of Mwata Kazembe.
HISTORY
History records that around 1740 the first Mwata, Ng’anga Bilonda of the Luba-Lunda Kingdom, headed by Mwata Yamvo or Mwaant Yav, located 300 km west of the Luapula in the DR Congo, left with a group of followers in pursuit eastwards of one Mutanda who had murdered his father Chinyanta and uncle by drowning them in the Mukelweji River.
The followers caught up with Mutanda, disposed of him and migrated eastward under Mwata Kazembe II Kanyembo Mpemba. They crossed the Luapula River at Matanda, conquered the indigenous Shila people in the Luapula Valley, and established Luba or Lunda aristocrats as chiefs over them, imposing customs and culture of the Lunda and Luba. They however adopted the Bemba language.
The kingdom prospered from the fisheries of Lake Mweru and the Mofwe Lagoon, and natural resources, including copper ore Katanga of present-day Congo DR.
“We are inspired by Chief Mpezeni’s words,” said local farmer Mwansa Chileshe. “Maize farming has always been a part of our livelihood, but his encouragement gives us new motivation to expand our efforts and contribute to the growth of our province and country.”
The economic impact of the Umutomboko ceremony extends beyond cultural celebration, boosting local businesses and the hospitality industry. Hotels and guesthouses in Mwansabombwe and surrounding areas experience high occupancy rates, while vendors and artisans report increased sales.
This influx of visitors and economic activity underscores the potential for further development and investment in the region.
This well-attended festivity draws local and international tourists, transforming the usually tranquil town of Mwansabombwe into a bustling hub of commerce and cultural exchange.
“We are proud to share our traditions with the world,” remarked Mansa Organizing Committee Vice-Chairperson Loveness Chama.
“The Umutomboko Traditional ceremony is not just a ceremony; it is a celebration of our identity and a testament to the strength of our community.”
SURGE
Local entrepreneurs told Solwezi Today this was the time they experienced a surge in sales from food to artwork, exhibited on avenues leading to the Umutomboko venue.
One of the vendors, Lameck Banda said it was during this period that sellers cashed in through offerings of traditional delicacies alongside intricately crafted traditional wood and basket artefacts and clothing, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the Lunda people. “I’ve been selling my handmade crafts here for over five years now and each year, the Umutomboko brings more customers than ever before,” remarked Banda.
“It’s not just about making sales; it’s about preserving our culture and sharing it with others,” Banda said.
Another entrepreneur Mary Mulenga said the economic impact of the Umutomboko ceremony extended beyond immediate sales.
Hotels and guesthouses in Mwansabombwe and neighbouring towns were booked to capacity weeks in advance, accommodating visitors and dignitaries attending the event.
Mulenga said the influx of tourists not only boosted occupancy rates but also supported peripheral services such as transportation, entertainment, and local tours, thereby creating a ripple effect of economic benefit throughout the region.
In recent years, the provincial administration has recognized the ceremony’s potential as a tourism magnet and has invested in infrastructure improvements to enhance visitor experiences.
This proactive approach has paid dividends, with attendance steadily increasing annually.
