2022 Lwiindi Ceremony
On 13th July 2022, the 2022 Lwiindi of Chief Mukuni of the Leya speaking people was held in Livingstone, Zambia.
Chief Munokalya Mupotola IV Siloka III Mukuni, the 19th Chief of the Leya, “The Lion King” of Victoria Falls.
Each year the Chief leads his community in the annual Lwiindi Ceremony, traditionally held to give thanks for the first harvest of the year. The Chiefs are held in tradition to be 'Shine Chiefs' or Rain Maker. Traditional culture records that Chief Mukulukulu of the BaTonga tribe, the first Rain Maker, disappeared into the sky and is responsible for sending the rains. The reigning Chiefs in Monze and Kazangula Districts celebrate the praise given to Mukulukulu by consuming the first meal from the new season's harvest.
Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema graced the 2022 Lwiindi of Chief Mukuni.
The ceremony attracts many important people from around the country, Zambia's elected politicians, representatives of the opposition parties, many Chiefs from towns in the province and hundreds of people both in and beyond the province all converge for this colourful event.
Chief Ishima from Zambezi District, HRH Mwanta Ishima Sanken'i VI
Speaking at the events held in Livingstone and Monze districts of Southern Province, President Hakainde Hichilema has outlined his commitment to the preservation of heritage sites. He explained that various ministries had been informed to ensure that heritage sites such as Gonde Malende are protected from deforestation and other forms of encroachment. He guaranteed that the issue of ground rent should not become a large issue as the government are willing to provide relief to affected sites within Zambia.
Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema speaking at the event.
The President outlined that he was impressed with the number of chiefs in attendance and stated that it reflected a sign of unity, purpose and diversity among different cultures. He said that the protection of various cultures is what the government strives for in order to create an environment of peace and tranquillity.
Furthermore, the President explained the importance of collaboration between the government and traditional leaders suggesting that both entities have the same end goal- to allow Zambians to thrive.
He stated, “The traditional ceremonies, can we slant them to carry with the cultural aspects and heritage but also to carry the country’s development agenda.”
Traditional dancing by young members entertain the crowds!
Additionally, he outlined the positive development policies that the New Dawn Government have established in order to ensure the social and economic development of Zambia. This included their free education policy and other empowerment initiatives that have been established since the government was elected.
