By Jotham Likomeno,
Government, through the Ministry of Tourism, has introduced new initiatives aimed at promoting traditional ceremonies across the country as part of efforts to preserve cultural heritage and boost cultural tourism.
Ministry of Tourism Director of Culture and Traditional Affairs, Bessie Chelemu, said Government is actively supporting and promoting traditional ceremonies as a key strategy for safeguarding cultural identity and enhancing tourism development.
Speaking in an interview with Mafken News, Mrs. Chelemu revealed that the Ministry has this year introduced a cultural clinic component, which will engage schools near Mutenguleni during the Ncwala Traditional Ceremony. She explained that the initiative is designed to educate children about cultural heritage and nurture appreciation of traditional values from a young age.
She further disclosed that Government has integrated the Tourism Yamuloko initiative and engaged a social media influencer to help promote traditional ceremonies and attract both local and international tourists.
Mrs. Chelemu also noted that Government provides financial support to chiefs to assist in the organisation and hosting of traditional ceremonies across the country.
She has since urged traditional leaders to attend one another’s ceremonies, emphasizing that culture is a vital part of Zambia’s national identity and a key driver of tourism and national development.
