The continued heavy rains have led to a rise in water levels in the Barotse Floodplains, setting the stage for this year’s Kuomboka traditional ceremony of the Lozi people in Western Province.
The Barotse Royal Establishment (BRE) has confirmed that the much-anticipated event, which marks the ceremonial migration of the Lozi king, the Litunga, from his summer palace in Lealui to his winter residence in Limulunga, will take place on April 5.
Ngambela (Prime Minister) Manyando Mukelabai announced the official date at a press briefing, stating that the conditions are ideal for what will be a “Special Jubilee Kuomboka.”
“Our supply rivers like Luanginga, coming from Angola, and Luandimba, coming from North-Western Province, together with other tributaries of the Zambezi inland, have brought sufficient water on the plain to make our ceremony a special one,” said the Ngambela.
Kuomboka, a vibrant and deeply symbolic event, is held at the end of the rainy season, usually around March or April. The highlight of the festival is the Litunga’s journey on the grand royal barge, Nalikwanda, a black-and-white painted vessel adorned with elephant motifs. He is accompanied by his prime minister and other local chiefs as he moves from the flooded plains of Lealui to the higher grounds of Limulunga.
As per tradition, the Litunga dons a British admiral’s uniform, a practice that dates back to historical interactions between the Lozi Kingdom and European powers. The event, which is marked by drumming, dancing, and a procession of boats, attracts thousands of visitors from across Zambia and beyond.
The Ngambela emphasized that Kuomboka remains a purely cultural and traditional celebration, urging people from all walks of life to attend and witness this historic event.
The announcement has sparked excitement among the Lozi people and cultural enthusiasts, as the success of Kuomboka depends heavily on favorable water levels in the floodplains. With this year’s increased rainfall, the 2025 ceremony promises to be a spectacular display of tradition, unity, and heritage.