As people gathered to celebrate the Lusata Cultural Festival of the Mafwe under Litunga George Simasiku Mamili VII, the last Sunday of September each year remains a big day on the Mafwe calendar. Thousands of people gathered not only to celebrate their rich traditions and diverse cultures but also to appreciate and express their deepest gratitude to the leaders whose vision and commitment have made unity of purpose possible.
Leaders such as the Right Honourable Prime Minister, Dr. Elijah Tjitunga Ngurare; Hon. Sankwasa James Sankwasa; the Litunga, Shikati, Fumu, and Simwine not forgetting the Ovambanderu Traditional Authority, Ondonga Traditional Authority, Masubia Traditional Authority from Botswana, and the Lozi from the Western Province of Zambia graced the colourful event at Chinchimani (Linyanti Khuta).
Where there is hope, people should extend their heartfelt appreciation to the leadership for their unwavering support in bringing communities together through cultural festivals. Cultural festivals are more than colourful gatherings; they are the heartbeat of the people. They tell the story of who we are and where we are going. They allow us to sing the songs of our ancestors, to dance the dances of our traditions, as the Lusata (Mayongayonga) song demonstrated the jubilation it signalled when played was a testament to the sharing of wisdom passed from one generation to the next. But most importantly, it allows us to stand together as one people, united by respect, love, and pride in our identity.
Moreover, it is through the foresight of our leaders that these cultural festivals have become platforms for peace and unity. The Prime Minister and the Minister of Urban and Rural Development have recognized that true development cannot exist without harmony, and that harmony is built when people respect and celebrate each other’s differences. Their leadership has reminded us that culture is not a barrier that divides, but a bridge that connects us all.
The people of the Zambezi Region are blessed with diversity. Our communities reflect a beautiful mosaic of languages, customs, and traditions. Yet diversity alone does not guarantee unity it requires leaders with vision, leaders who see beyond differences, leaders who believe that our future is brighter when we walk together. As Hon. Sankwasa appealed to those with issues, “Come, let’s reason together. Namibians, come, let’s reason together. Zambezi, come, let’s reason together.” The Right Honourable Prime Minister and the Honourable Minister Sankwasa have nicely embodied this very spirit of inclusive leadership. May you keep it up, Honourables.
The Honourable Prime Minister and Honourable Minister’s speeches during the Lusata Cultural Festival showed their deep commitment that cultural festivals today are not only about entertainment but also about education, empowerment, and unity. They are spaces where our children learn to value their roots, where elders pass down wisdom, and where communities find common ground in the midst of diversity. They are also platforms for development attracting visitors, promoting tourism, and showcasing the creative talents of our people, as demonstrated by the Singalamwe Youths Dancing Group, Sikosinyana Pela Group, Magumwe, Kansonko, Mponje, Liselo, Mbarakarungu, Ovambanderu, Sibwanga, Satau, Lishowelela, and not forgetting the Maulukupeka Cultural Group, among many others.
The Honourable Prime Minister and Honourable Minister’s speeches reminded all those who attended that unity is our greatest strength. A united community is a resilient community. A united region is a prosperous region. And a united Namibia is a peaceful and progressive nation. Therefore, we should be grateful to the Prime Minister and the Minister for their leadership, encouragement, and dedication to fostering harmony among the Mafwe, Masubia, Mayeyi, and Mashi communities in the region.
Let us reaffirm our commitment to safeguarding our traditions, embracing our diversity, and walking forward in unity. Let us continue to celebrate our cultural festivals with pride, knowing that they are the foundation of our shared future. And let us stand together in thanking our leaders for showing us that through culture, unity, and mutual respect, we can build a society that is truly inclusive and strong.
From my own capacity as an active member of the Mafwe community, I say thank you, Right Honourable Prime Minister, and thank you, Honourable Minister of Urban and Rural Development, for standing with us, for believing in us, and for reminding us that our destiny is brighter when we are united.
Let us unite and develop the Zambezi Region.
END…
By Mr Sibuku Malumbano
Sibbinda Village
Lusata Member
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