Umutomboko

Umutomboko is a Lunda ceremony celebrated at Mwansabombwe in Luapula Province to commemorate the arrival of the Lunda and Luba people from Kola, now Congo DR, in Zambia.

The Umutomboko or Mutomboko ritual is held by the Lunda and Luba people of Luapula region to commemorate their pre-colonial achievements.

Umutomboko translates to "victory dance" or "conquest dance." When telling the story of Umutomboko, one must connect it to the days when the Lunda crossed the Luapula River into Zambia, battling their way through and conquering weaker and lesser tribes in the process. The Lunda crossed the Luapula River into Zambia at chief Matanda's hamlet in Mansa district, according to numerous historical texts.

On the last Saturday of July, the Umutomboko celebration is held in Mwansabombwe district, Mwata Kazembe's headquarters. His Royal Highness Mwata Kazembe's passionate dance of conquering, performed every year in the last week of July, is a mirror through which the Lunda Kingdom's history and cultural heritage are reflected.

Date: Last Saturday of July.