Government to improve infrastructure for traditional ceremonies

Government says it will continue to ensure that chiefdoms are included in the development agenda.

North-western Province Permanent Secretary (PS), Emphraim Mateyo said government will also continue to improve infrastructure and other facilities for traditional ceremonies.

ZANIS reports that Mr. Mateyo was speaking in Mushindamo district where he officiated at the Ukupupa traditional ceremony of the Lamba speaking people in senior chief Kalilele’s chiefdom.

He said traditional ceremonies offer Zambians an opportunity to celebrate customary leadership because it serves as a partner with government in running the affairs of the country.

Mr. Mateyo said it is for this reason that government has embarked on construction of palaces for chiefs throughout the country and noted that Kalilele palace is 98 percent complete.

Speaking at the same event, chief Lumpuma of the Lamba speaking people of Lufwanyama district in Copperbelt province, called on residents of senior chief Kalilele chiefdom to preserve their cultural heritage.

The chief said a society without tradition is nothing and therefore, traditional ceremonies should be celebrated to educate people about the rich cultures held by the Zambian people.

He added that ceremonies are not held to entertain but to offer lessons to children that will one day share the beliefs and traditions practiced in their chiefdoms with their children.

And speaking on behalf of the Kalilele royal establishment, Organizing Committee Chairperson, Matthews Muke commended government for its commitment to chiefs’ affairs.

Mr. Muke said government has been paying attention to the needs of chiefs, and that is one reason why many chiefs want to partner with government to serve the people better.

He said the Kalilele Royal Establishment is happy with government for building a modern palace for their chief.

The Ukupupa traditional ceremony this year was attended by senior Government Officials and chiefs from within and surrounding districts among them, Chiefs Mulonga of Mushindamo district and Shimukunami from Copperbelt province as well as chief Kaponda from Congo DR.

Others were representatives from senior chiefs Mushili, Mujimanzovu and Mukumbi.