Chisemwa Cha Lunda

The Chisemwa Cha Lunda is a traditional ceremony of the Lunda people of the North-Western province of Zambia. The ceremony is a celebration of the Lunda people’s traditional culture and heritage. It is an expression of the Lunda ethnic pride and cultural identity.

The ceremony was revived in 1997 by chief Chifwanakeni cha Mwatiyamvwa Mulumbi Datuma II. Initially, the ceremony was known as ‘Musolu Weseki Da Lunda‘ and it was founded by the late senior chief Kanong’esha Salowu Kamonda.

Held annually, the Chisemwa cha Lunda ceremony brings together the Lunda, Kaonde, Lamba and Luvale chiefs. The ceremony is held at senior chief Kanong’esha’s palace, 47 kilometers from Mwinilunga town. Chisemwa cha Lunda ceremony takes in an arena specifically built for the festivities.

The ceremonial entry of senior chief Kanong’esha into the main arena, wearing his traditional regalia is the most exciting part of the ceremony. The Chisemwa cha Lunda traditional ceremony is more than just dancing and singing. It is a way of displaying the cultural heritage of the Lunda people, how they lived and how they hunted for their food. The traditional food they ate and how they preserved it. It is a way of passing on the Lunda traditional heritage to the next generation.

The Chisemwa cha Lunda traditional ceremony is the best place to be if you want to sample the customs and culture of the Lunda people.