President Hakainde Hichilema has praised the annual Kuomboka Traditional Ceremony of the Lozi people as a powerful symbol of Zambia’s rich cultural heritage and a unifying event for the nation.
Speaking after attending this year’s ceremony in Mongu, the President described the Kuomboka not merely as a migration, but as a historic and cultural celebration that continues to bring Zambians together from across the country.
“Indeed, Kuomboka is not just a migration but a historical and cultural event that has continued to unite us as a nation,” President Hichilema said in a statement. “We thank His Majesty, King Lubosi Imwiko II, the people of Western Province, and all Zambians from all walks of life who made this year’s ceremony a success.”
The Kuomboka, which means “to get out of water” in Lozi, is a traditional event held when the floodwaters of the Zambezi River rise, prompting the Litunga—the King of the Lozi people—to move from his flood-prone palace in Lealui to his dry-season residence in Limulunga. The ceremony features a majestic procession led by the royal barge, the Nalikwanda, adorned with the king’s traditional insignia and accompanied by music, drumming, and dancing.
President Hichilema emphasized the importance of cultural preservation and encouraged citizens to embrace and celebrate their diverse traditions.
“Sizo ki sizo! Let’s continue cherishing and embracing our culture. May God bless our great nation,” he said.
The Kuomboka ceremony remains one of Zambia’s most iconic cultural events, drawing both local and international visitors, and reinforcing the nation’s identity as a land of peace, tradition, and unity.
Unfortunately, this iconic tradition is threatened by the ever worsening global warming. It may not be practical in the long run. So, let’s continue enjoying it while it lasts!
Zambians are peace loving people who are united and hardworking but want their country
To make economic progress with all the natural resources they have got.
We hear about this ” Symbol of National Unity” at every Traditional ceremonies every year but how come we are still tribalist and harbor hatred for other tribes….He said the same thing at the just ended Ncwala Ceremony……and as soon as the ceremony ends its back to tribalism
How these ceremonies are called unifying, but immediately after the ceremonies we don’t even see any unity especially among politicians. All discourse in the country is on party lines without any objectivity, whether it is constitutional making or any other. People are called members of parliament and peoples representatives but they don’t even represent the people but represent their parties