The N’cwala Ngoni First Fruits Ceremony is a vibrant annual celebration of the Ngoni people in Zambia. It honours the first harvest, pays tribute to ancestral spirits, and showcases traditional dances, music and rituals led by Paramount Chief Mpezeni. This colourful gathering unites communities and visitors in gratitude, joy, and cultural pride.
History of the N’cwala Ngoni First Fruits Ceremony
The N’cwala Ngoni First Fruits Ceremony dates back to the 19th century when the Ngoni people migrated from present-day KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa to Zambia. It was banned during the colonial period. Paramount Chief Mpezeni revived the ceremony in 1980 to commemorate victories in tribal wars and to celebrate the gift of fresh crops. The ceremony symbolises thanksgiving to God and ancestral spirits, while also reinforcing the Ngoni warrior heritage and cultural identity.
What to Expect at the N’cwala Ngoni First Fruits Ceremony
At the N’cwala Ngoni First Fruits Ceremony, you will experience a powerful blend of tradition and festivity. Paramount Chief Mpezeni presides over the rituals and is accompanied by a procession of warriors. Chief Mpezeni´s tasting of the first fruits of the harvest is a symbolic act of gratitude. Colourful parades, traditional dances, and warrior displays fill the air with energy.
The Ngoni people dress in striking regalia, and the rhythmic beats of drums create an atmosphere of celebration. It is a ceremony that is not just a thanksgiving ritual; it is a living showcase of heritage, unity and pride.
Where Does the Ceremony Take Place?
The main ceremony takes place in Mtenguleni Village, near Chipata in Zambia’s Eastern Province, close to the border with Malawi.
Prior to this, there is a pilgrimage to Nakonde, about 130 miles (200 kilometres), further north on the Tanzanian border, the resting place of King Zwangendaba. It is also an important cultural centre connected to the Ngoni people, and this provides a rich backdrop for the ceremony, linking history with modern celebration.
To attend events, register through the local organisers on the ground. Fees are modest, often covering entry and cultural exhibitions. Outdoor events are sometimes free. Costs also vary depending on whether you join guided tours or attend independently.
What to eat and drink
During the ceremony, enjoy traditional Ngoni dishes such as roasted meats, maize-based meals, and freshly brewed local beverages. Seasonal fruits from the harvest are also shared, symbolising abundance and gratitude.
What To Do in Zambia´s Eastern Province
The area offers a wealth of attractions beyond the ceremony. Explore the Nsingo Community Museum, which tells the story of Ngoni warriors and their migration. The district’s landscapes are perfect for safaris, birdwatching, and photography in areas like the South Luangwa National Park. Local markets brim with crafts and textiles, giving me you a chance to take home authentic souvenirs.
Flights And Getting to Zambia´s Eastern Province
From London, with Ethiopian or Emirates, about 15 hours.
From Miami, New York or Los Angeles, fly direct to London to link up with an onward flight.
Once in Zambia, travel by domestic flight to Mfuwe, which is still about 50 miles (80 kilometres), from Chipata, or road from Lusaka to Mtenguleni Village for the ceremony.
Zambia Time
Zambia is two hours ahead of London and seven hours ahead of New York.
More Information
Official tourism website about the ceremony: https://www.zambia.travel/ncwala.html
Website for the Kasenengwa District: https://www.kasenengwacouncil.gov.zm/?page_id=5596
South Luangwa National Park: https://www.southluangwa.com/
