Every August, the Katete District comes alive with the vibrant colours, rhythms, and traditions of the Kulamba Ceremony, the annual gathering of the Chewa people. Normally held on the last Saturday of the month, this year's celebration was moved up a week to the 24th of August, but the excitement and sense of tradition remained as strong as ever.

The Kulamba Ceremony is much more than just a festival—it's a time for the Chewa people to honour their ancestors and pay respect to their paramount chief, Kalonga Gawa Undi, both present and past. The Chewa, who inhabit Zambia, Malawi, and Mozambique, deeply value their spiritual and cultural traditions. Through this annual ceremony, they maintain a powerful connection to their heritage, with rituals that reflect their reverence for the spiritual world and their commitment to preserving their cultural identity.

This year's ceremony was graced by President Hakainde Hichilema. The 2024 ceremony also attracted its largest crowd ever, reflecting a growing interest from Zambians and foreigners in our traditional ceremonies and Zambian culture at large.

The Nyau Dancers: Guardians of Tradition

One of the most iconic features of the Kulamba Ceremony (not to be confused with the Kulamba Kubwalo Ceremony of the Lenje people) is the Nyau dancers' performance. The Nyau are a secretive, all-male society that acts as spiritual intermediaries and is believed to communicate with the spirits of the ancestors. Their performances are unforgettable, particularly the renowned Gule Wamkulu (The Great Dance).

With their elaborate, colourful masks and striking costumes, the Nyau dancers perform at Kulamba and funerals, initiations, and other key events in the Chewa calendar. Their role in the ceremony is to entertain and embody the living connection between the Chewa people and their ancestral spirits. For many visitors, the Gule Wamkulu is the highlight of the ceremony, drawing both locals and tourists eager to witness this profound cultural expression.

A Showcase of Chewa Craftsmanship

The Kulamba Ceremony is also an opportunity to experience the incredible craftsmanship of the Chewa artisans. The vivid, symbolic Nyau masks are particularly striking, crafted with deep cultural significance. In addition to the masks, Chewa artisans produce stunning beadwork and intricate carvings, each piece carrying its own symbolic meaning connected to the beliefs and traditions of the Chewa people.

Preserving Culture for Future Generations

UNESCO recognises the Kulamba Ceremony as a form of intangible cultural heritage. It is more than a celebration—it's a testament to the importance of cultural preservation. Each year, visitors from all over the world attend the ceremony to share in this living tradition and create memories that transcend borders.

Attending the Kulamba Ceremony is an experience like no other—a chance to witness living history, celebrate cultural resilience, and immerse oneself in the rich spiritual and cultural tapestry of the Chewa people.