Traditional Ceremonies: Ukusefya pa Ng’wen

AbaBemba trace their origin from Kola (modern-day Angola) in the 17th Century. From Kola, they went to Luba. From Luba, they crossed Luapula, Chambeshi, and Kalungu Rivers. When they reached the banks of Milando, they came across a dead crocodile. Since Bemba rulers belong to the Crocodile Clan, the discovery, earmarked Bemba-land. A village was set up at this very spot -and it was named Ng’wena Village.

Around August/September, Chitimukulu (the head of uLuBemba, the Bemba nation) calls his subjects to the original Ng’wena Village to celebrate the formation of the Bemba people and nation, and their subsequent achievements. The highlight of “Ukusefya pa Ng’wena” is the re-enactment of the journey from Kola to Lubemba.

Activities

Friday: Paying Homage at Amatembwe

At Kalisha, homage is paid to the throne of the supreme ruler of the Bemba country.

Saturday: Ukusefya pa Ng’wena

At the main arena at the place where the original Ng’wena Village was established. Festivities are characterised by singing (various genres of traditional Bemba songs), prayers, speeches by Mwine Lubemba and invited guests.