Chifunabuli made history as the Ukwanga Traditional Ceremony welcomed its first-ever presidential guest, cementing its role as a milestone for unity and progress. This landmark event not only showcased the Ng’umbo people’s cultural splendor but also positioned Chifunabuli as a thriving hub for national cohesion and economic growth.
By Hon Ponde C. Mecha.
Lusaka, Dec. 12 – Traditional ceremonies are more than just cultural relics; they are pillars of unity and engines for development. REA and SeedCo’s steadfast commitment to supporting these events and the President’s consistent participation are examples worth emulating. Let us all play our part in ensuring that traditional ceremonies continue to thrive as symbols of unity, platforms for economic growth, and avenues for national development.
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As the Former MP for Chifunabuli Constituency, I would like to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt gratitude to His Excellency, President Hakainde Hichilema, for making history by becoming the first-ever Republican President to grace the Ukwanga Traditional Ceremony of the Ng’umbo people on 12th October this year. His presence marked a turning point not only for the ceremony but also for the people of Chifunabuli.
President Hichilema’s gesture carries profound implications for the future of the Ukwanga ceremony. Firstly, his attendance has elevated the ceremony’s profile, setting a new benchmark for sponsorship and attracting more stakeholders to support this culturally significant event. By showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Ng’umbo people on a national stage, the President has inspired unity among communities, fostering a sense of national pride and belonging.
Economically, this milestone opens doors for greater investment in Chifunabuli District, as the increased attention on the Ukwanga ceremony will undoubtedly attract tourists and businesses. This ripple effect can stimulate local economic activities, from hospitality to the sale of traditional artifacts, boosting incomes for our people.
Socially, the President’s involvement sends a clear message about the importance of inclusivity and recognition of all regions and traditions. His support reinforces the unity and respect that are vital for Zambia’s socio-political stability. Moreover, it encourages other high-profile individuals, organizations, and institutions to align with the Ukwanga ceremony, ensuring its sustainability and growth in the years to come.
Also Read: Economic Indaba: The Humility Play That Could Save Zambia’s Future! True leadership is rooted in acknowledging mistakes, not defending them. By calling for an Economic Indaba that would bring together diverse voices, Hichilema would demonstrate that he values the people’s welfare over political ego.
Looking ahead, I urge all stakeholders – local businesses, development partners, government agencies, and individual citizens – to rally behind next year’s Ukwanga Ceremony. Let us leverage this renewed momentum to make it even more impactful, transforming it into a national event that embodies unity, cultural pride, and socio-economic advancement.
Through collective effort, we can harness the full potential of our cultural heritage to build a stronger, more united Zambia. Together, we can ensure that the Ukwanga ceremony remains a beacon of hope and progress for generations to come.
About The Author: Hon. Ponde Chunga Mecha is the immediate past MP for Chifunabuli Constituency. He has worked and executed various development programmes in the agriculture sector under various funding sources including GRZ, World Bank, NORAD, FINNIDA, FAO, Melinda and Bill Gates Foundation, USAID and the EU.
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