The Moth Media

HEADMAN KILLS HIMSELF.

A village headman in Chief Magodi's area of Chasefu District has died after allegedly consuming pesticide tablets following a domestic dispute.

Zambia Police Service Eastern Province Commanding Officer, Robertson Mweemba, says, the deceased, Patrick Manda, 51, who was also Headman of Kada Village, allegedly consumed three maize pesticide tablets on the evening of Friday, June 5, 2026, and the matter was reported to Chasefu Police Post the following morning.

ZANIS reports that Mr Mweemba said it is alleged that the deceased had a marital dispute with his wife whom he accused of infidelity.

"It is alleged that the deceased had been involved in a marital dispute with his wife, Veronica Nkhoma, 45, on June 3. The dispute reportedly arose after he accused her of infidelity," he said.

Mr Mweemba disclosed that during the altercation, the woman was allegedly assaulted and later reported the matter to Police.

"A medical report form was issued and she sought treatment at Lundazi District Hospital," he said.

Mr Mweemba further said two days later, at around 18:00 hours on June 5, the deceased reportedly informed family members that he had taken pesticide tablets.

He said relatives quickly rushed him to Kamzoole Health Post for medical attention but despite efforts by health personnel to save his life, he succumbed later that night and was pronounced dead at around 22:00 hours.

"The body has since been buried by family members and Officers have recorded the matter as a suspected su***de and investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident are ongoing," he said.

Mr Mweemba has since urged members of the public facing emotional or personal challenges to seek assistance from family members, community leaders, healthcare providers or other available support services.

Source. ZANIS

UNDERSTANDING THE CHIMBUYA TRADITION.

By Dickson Jere (Expanded Version)

There appears to be considerable misunderstanding regarding the Chimbuya tradition and how it is practiced within Bemba culture. It is important that younger generations and those unfamiliar with the custom take time to understand its purpose, meaning, and rules before commenting on it.

Chimbuya is not intended to humiliate, embarrass, or punish mourners. Rather, it is a traditional fundraising mechanism designed to support a bereaved family during a difficult period of mourning and funeral preparations.

The practice is guided by specific rules and customs that must be respected.
The following are some of the fundamental principles governing Chimbuya:

1. The Primary Purpose Is Contribution, Not Smearing
The first and most important expectation is that individuals contribute financially towards the funeral. The application of white powder or chalk-like substance only comes into play when a person refuses or fails to make the expected contribution.

In other words, the objective is not to smear people, but to encourage participation in helping the bereaved family. Chimbuya is fundamentally a community fundraising exercise rooted in solidarity and shared responsibility.

2. All Contributions Belong to the Bereaved Family
Money collected through Chimbuya is carefully accounted for and handed over to the bereaved family. These funds assist with funeral expenses, food for mourners, transportation, burial costs, and other related arrangements.

It is important to emphasize that the money is not collected for personal gain by those administering the tradition. The entire purpose is to provide practical support to the family that has suffered a loss.

3. Smearing Must Be Modest and Respectful
Where smearing becomes necessary, it should be done in a restrained and respectful manner. Traditionally, only a small amount of the white substance is applied to the forehead.

The intention is merely to indicate that a contribution has not yet been made. It is not meant to shame or degrade an individual. Smearing a person's entire face, damaging clothing, or engaging in excessive conduct falls outside the accepted norms of the tradition.

4. The Practice Is Restricted to Funeral Settings
Chimbuya is conducted only within the context of mourning. It is normally performed at the funeral house or at the burial site.
The tradition should not be taken into offices, workplaces, schools, public streets, or other unrelated settings. Furthermore, it must be carried out solemnly and respectfully, remembering that it is associated with the death of a community member. The mourning aspect should never be turned into entertainment or public spectacle.

5. Closing the Mourning House Is Part of the Custom
In some instances, when mourners leave for the burial site, the house of mourning may be symbolically closed. Upon their return, a small "ransom" or contribution may be requested before the house is reopened.

This practice is part of the traditional ceremony and should not be misunderstood. Just like other Chimbuya contributions, any money collected is ultimately passed on to the bereaved family to assist with funeral-related needs.

Conclusion
Chimbuya is a long-standing cultural tradition founded on community support, respect for the bereaved, and collective responsibility. When practiced correctly, it serves as a meaningful way for people to contribute to funeral arrangements and stand with a family during a time of grief.

However, the tradition must always be conducted within its established rules, with dignity, restraint, and respect for both the mourners and the deceased.

Now that the rules and purpose of Chimbuya have been explained, it is important that misconceptions and abuses of the practice cease, and that the tradition be understood in its proper cultural context.

OFFICIAL FUNERAL DIRECTIVES ISSUED BY THE NGONI ROYAL ESTABLISHMENT.

The Ngoni Royal Establishment held a press briefing on 1st June 2026 to provide the nation with an official update following the passing of His Majesty, Ngwenyama Mpezeni IV.

In accordance with Ngoni customs, traditions, and established protocols, the following directives have been issued:

1. Official Communication
Senior Chief Nzamane is hereby designated as the sole official spokesperson on all matters relating to the funeral of His Majesty Ngwenyama Mpezeni IV and the affairs of the Ngoni Kingdom during this mourning period. Members of the public are advised to disregard any statements, announcements, or pronouncements that have not been issued or expressly authorised by Senior Chief Nzamane.

2. Prohibition of Succession Discussions
No member of the Ngoni community shall engage in public discussions, commentary, interviews, or speculation regarding the succession to the Mpezeni throne prior to the burial of His Majesty. Under Ngoni custom and tradition, discussing matters of succession before the King has been laid to rest is considered a serious violation of cultural norms and an affront to the dignity of the deceased monarch.

Media institutions and members of the public are further advised to disregard statements made by self-proclaimed experts, advisors, historians, or any other individuals who claim authority on succession matters without proper mandate from the Ngoni Royal Establishment.

3. Suspension of Political Activities
All political activities within Ngoni chiefdoms and areas under the cultural jurisdiction of the Ngoni Kingdom are hereby suspended for the duration of the official mourning period. This measure is intended to allow the Ngoni people and the nation at large to accord His Majesty a dignified and respectful farewell.

4. Prohibition of Political Regalia
The wearing, display, or distribution of political regalia, symbols, banners, or any form of political paraphernalia at funeral gatherings and ceremonies relating to His Majesty Ngwenyama Mpezeni IV is strictly prohibited. The Ngoni Royal Establishment seeks to preserve the non-partisan nature of the funeral and maintain the solemnity and unity befitting the occasion.

5. Media Coverage Restrictions
Coverage of funeral processions and related ceremonies shall be conducted in accordance with Ngoni customs and traditions. Only duly accredited media houses shall be permitted to take photographs, record footage, or provide coverage from designated locations and at approved times as determined by the Ngoni Royal Establishment.

Further Information
Additional details regarding funeral arrangements, schedules, and related protocols shall be communicated through official channels in due course.
Issued by the Ngoni Royal Establishment

2 June 2026

NGONI SUCCESSION AND THE LEGACY OF MPHEZENI

The Ngoni are a patrilineal society in which succession is determined through the male line.

Traditionally, the heir to the throne is the eldest son of the Great Wife from the senior royal house, a principle known as uNhlanza (Shanzi).

When the Great Wife had no male children, a custom known as "raising seed" allowed a close female relative to bear children on her behalf, with those children being recognized as heirs of the Great House.

Following the death of King Zwangendaba Jere in 1848, disputes over succession between his sons Mphezeni (Ntutu) and M’mbelwa led to the fragmentation of the Ngoni Kingdom into several factions across present-day Zambia, Malawi, Tanzania, and Mozambique.

Despite this division, many Ngoni groups continue to recognize the Mphezeni throne in Zambia as the supreme traditional authority.

Ngoni royal funerals were historically elaborate state ceremonies involving rituals, sacrifices, and military displays, reflecting the king's central role in society.

🔸The Ngoni follow a patrilineal system of succession.
🔸The heir is traditionally the eldest son of the Great Wife (uNhlanza/Shanzi principle).
🔸The custom of "raising seed" ensured continuity when the Great Wife had no sons.
🔸The succession dispute after Zwangendaba's death in 1848 split the Ngoni nation into several kingdoms.
🔸Major Ngoni factions emerged in Zambia, Malawi, Tanzania, and Mozambique.
🔸Despite the divisions, many Ngoni communities still regard the Mphezeni throne as the supreme Ngoni authority.
🔸Traditional Ngoni royal funerals included ceremonies, cattle sacrifices, war dances, and ancestor-related rituals.
🔸Historical succession decisions sometimes favored legitimacy and tradition over age, as seen when the young Xhloa (Mphezeni II) was chosen over older claimants.
Africa.

A DARK CLOUD FALLS OVER THE NGONI KINGDOM AS NKOSI YA MA NKHOSI MPEZENI DIES

Chipata, Eastern Province — A dark cloud has befallen the Ngoni Kingdom and Zambia at large following the death of Nkosi Ya Ma nkhosi Mpezeni, the revered Paramount Chief of the Ngoni people whose real name is David Njengembaso Jele (also spelled Jere).

The passing of the Ngoni monarch comes at a particularly emotional moment for the nation, occurring just six days before the memorial of Zambia's Sixth Republican President, Edgar Chagwa Lungu, who passed away on 6 June last year.

The coincidence has deepened the nation's sense of reflection and mourning as Zambians prepare to remember one national icon while bidding farewell to another.

Nkosi Ya Ma nkhosi Mpezeni was more than a traditional ruler; he was a custodian of Ngoni culture, a symbol of unity, and a respected voice of wisdom whose influence extended far beyond Eastern Province. Throughout his reign, he championed the preservation of Ngoni traditions while promoting peace, development, and harmony among his people.

Widely regarded as the embodiment of the Ngoni warrior spirit, the 'King' commanded immense respect from fellow traditional leaders, government officials, and citizens from all walks of life. His leadership was characterized by courage, dignity, vision, and an unwavering commitment to the welfare of his subjects.

News of his death has sent shockwaves across the country, with messages of grief and condolences pouring in from every corner of Zambia. For many, his passing marks the end of a remarkable chapter in the history of the Ngoni people and the nation as a whole.

As Zambia mourns this profound loss, thoughts and prayers are with the royal family, the Ngoni Kingdom, the people of Eastern Province, and all those whose lives were touched by his leadership.

The Ngoni Warrior has fallen.

The royal drum has fallen silent.

A mighty baobab has been uprooted.

Yet the legacy of Nkosi Ya Makhosi Mpezeni shall endure through generations, forever etched in the history of Zambia and in the hearts of his people.

May the soul of Nkosi Ya Ma nkhosi Mpezeni rest in eternal peace.

PARAMOUNT CHIEF MPHEZENI DIES.

CHIPATA, ZAMBIA — A wave of grief has swept across Zambia following the death of Paramount Chief Mpezeni IV, the revered traditional ruler of the Ngoni people and one of the country's most respected cultural leaders.

His Majesty's passing marks the end of an era for the Ngoni Kingdom and the nation at large. Widely regarded as a steadfast custodian of Ngoni culture, traditions, and heritage, Paramount Chief Mpezeni IV dedicated his life to preserving the identity of his people while promoting unity, peace, and national development.

Throughout his reign, the traditional leader stood as a powerful symbol of Zambia's rich cultural diversity and played a significant role in strengthening traditional governance and community cohesion.

His wisdom, leadership, and commitment to cultural preservation earned him admiration both within and beyond the Ngoni Royal Establishment.

As news of his death spreads, tributes continue to pour in from traditional leaders, government officials, and citizens across the country, all remembering a monarch whose influence extended far beyond his chiefdom.

The nation now stands in solidarity with the Ngoni Royal Establishment, the bereaved family, and the entire Ngoni community during this period of mourning.

Further details regarding funeral arrangements and official mourning programmes are expected to be announced by the Royal Establishment.

May His Majesty Paramount Chief Mpezeni IV rest in eternal peace.

Former President Edgar Lungu’s wishes were that the current President, Hakainde Hichilema, should have no role or involvement in his funeral arrangements, the family lawyer Thembeka Ngcukaitobi has told the South African Supreme Court of Appeal.

KASENENGWA MARRIED WOMAN R***D.

A 21-year-old woman of Kasala Village in Chief Madzimawe’s area of Kasenengwa District has allegedly been subjected to a horrifying sexual assault after boarding a motorcycle while travelling to her parents’ home following a domestic dispute.

The shocking incident is believed to have occurred on May 26, 2026, around 19:00 hours, sending waves of concern through the local community.

Eastern Province Police Commissioner Robertson Mweemba disclosed that the victim allegedly boarded a motorcycle ridden by Emmanuel Moyo, 16, who was reportedly accompanied by James Banda, 18, both of Kasala Village.

According to Mr Mweemba, the woman had earlier left her matrimonial home in Ulenje Village, Chief Nzamane’s area in Chipata District, after a misunderstanding with her husband.

Police reports indicate that while the trio was travelling towards Kasala Village, the suspects allegedly stopped the motorcycle in a secluded area before violently attacking the woman. One of the suspects is alleged to have r***d her during the ordeal.

“The victim screamed for help and, fortunately, a passerby rushed to her rescue,” Mr Mweemba said.
The traumatised victim later reported the matter to police and was issued with a medical report form for examination at Chipata Central Hospital.

Meanwhile, the suspects have reportedly gone into hiding, triggering an intensive manhunt by law enforcement officers as investigations into the disturbing incident continue.

HOSPITAL RAISES ALARM OVER RISING HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE CASES

17th May,2026.

The Levy Mwanawasa University Teaching Hospital has raised concern over the growing number of patients presenting with high blood pressure, revealing that 40 out of every 60 patients attended to at the facility are found with elevated blood pressure levels.

Senior Resident Medical Officer, Dr. Christabel Namukonde, described hypertension as a major public health challenge, noting that the condition is increasingly common in outpatient departments and often remains undetected until serious health complications develop.

Dr. Namukonde attributed the rise in hypertension cases to several risk factors, including excessive salt intake, smoking, nsunko use — the sniffing of raw to***co — obesity, physical inactivity and family history.

Speaking to ZNBC News in Lusaka during the commemoration of World Hypertension Day, Dr. Namukonde emphasized the importance of early screening and routine medical check-ups in preventing severe complications associated with the condition.

She noted that many patients only discover they have hypertension during routine health examinations.

Dr. Namukonde further explained that proper medication, regular monitoring and positive lifestyle changes such as reducing salt intake, maintaining a healthy weight and engaging in regular physical exercise can effectively help manage the condition.

She stressed that hypertension can be controlled through early detection, consistent treatment and healthy living practices.