Lusaka, 27-02-2026 - The National Likumbi Lya Mize Cultural Association has announced that the 70th edition of the annual Likumbi Lya Mize traditional ceremony of the Luvale people in North-Western Province will take place from August 24 to 30, 2026, with a budget of K3 million.
Speaking during the official announcement, National Chairperson Brian Kambeu said the main ceremony will be held on August 29, 2026, in Zambezi District.
Kambeu revealed that this year’s landmark event will be graced by Zambia’s Head of State, Hakainde Hichilema. The ceremony will be hosted in Zambezi, regarded as the cultural capital of the Luvale people.
He further announced a significant cultural shift for this year’s event, stating that the association will revert to showcasing the original Makishi masquerades, moving away from what he described as “diluted” versions that have dominated recent editions.
“We are going back to our roots. This 70th edition will reflect the authentic Makishi as preserved by our ancestors,” Kambeu said.
Likumbi Lya Mize is an annual traditional ceremony of the Luvale-speaking people of Zambia’s North-Western Province. Held every August in Zambezi District, the ceremony marks the culmination of the mukanda — a traditional male initiation process — and celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Senior Chief Ndungu.
The event is one of the country’s most prominent traditional ceremonies, attracting thousands of attendees, including traditional leaders, government officials, and cultural enthusiasts from across Zambia and beyond.
Organisers say preparations are already underway to ensure the milestone 70th edition reflects the significance and pride of the Luvale people’s enduring traditions.
By Samuel Mbews
.jpg)
0 Comments