05/09/2026
Ukusefya Pa Ng'wena cancelled
THE Bemba Royal Establishment says the prevailing mood in UluBemba is not conducive for holding the annual traditional festivities and has since cancelled the 2026 Ukusefya pa Ng’wena ceremony.
The ceremony, which was scheduled for September 17 to 19, has been called off following a decision made by the Bemba Royal Establishment yesterday at Chitimukulu Palace in Mungwi District of Northern Province.
The decision was reached during Icilye ce Lamfya, which was held at the palace from 10:00 hours to 12:00 hours.
In a statement issued after the meeting, Secretary to the Chitimukulu Richard Mukuka said the establishment had observed that the prevailing mood in UluBemba was not suitable for a joyful celebration.
“Icilye ce Lamfya observes that the prevailing mood in UluBemba is not conducive for ukusefya (joyful festivities),” Mukuka stated.
He said the cancellation of the ceremony takes effect immediately, which means the planned three-day event will not go ahead as earlier announced.
However, the Royal Establishment has assured sponsors and other well-wishers who had already contributed towards the ceremony that their support will not be lost.
Mukuka said all sponsorships and donations made towards the 2026 ceremony would instead be transferred to next year’s Ukusefya pa Ng’wena and properly accounted for.
“All the sponsorships and donations that have been made to the ceremony shall be transferred to, and accounted for by, next year’s Ukusefya pa Ng’wena,” he stated.
The Royal Establishment has also expressed regret over the inconvenience the cancellation may cause to sponsors, participants and members of the public who had made preparations for the event.
“Any inconvenience this cancellation may cause is deeply regretted,” Mukuka stated.
By George Musonda
Kalemba September 5, 2026
