Zambia’s Ngoni prepares Paramount Chief Mpezeni burial as mourning period begins

By Burnett Munthali

CHIPATA-(MaraviPost)-In Zambia, the Ngoni Royal Establishment has tentatively set next Tuesday as the burial date for Paramount Chief Mpezeni.

The announcement signals the start of formal funeral arrangements for one of the country’s most respected traditional leaders.

Senior Chief Nzamane says the remains of the late traditional leader will be transported to Chipata on Thursday this week ahead of the funeral.

Chipata, the capital of Eastern Province, serves as the seat of the Ngoni Kingdom and is expected to host thousands of mourners.

Senior Chief Nzamane says Paramount Chief Mpezeni was a baptised Catholic and that the Royal Establishment would like him to be accorded a funeral service by the Catholic Church.

The request reflects the late chief’s personal faith and the establishment’s desire to honor his spiritual convictions.

Paramount Chief Mpezeni died in Lusaka on Saturday, May 30, 2026.

His passing marked the end of a reign that spanned decades and shaped Ngoni cultural identity in Zambia and the region.

Meanwhile, the Ngoni Royal Establishment has suspended all political activities during the mourning period.

The suspension underscores the community’s focus on tradition, unity, and respect as the nation prepares to bid farewell.

According to ZNBC News, final funeral programs are expected to be released once the body arrives in Chipata.

The death of Paramount Chief Mpezeni has prompted messages of condolence from government officials, traditional leaders, and citizens across Zambia.

As preparations continue, the Ngoni people face a leadership transition that will test the continuity of their customs and institutions.

Lloyd M’bwana

I’m a Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resource (LUANAR)’s Environmental Science graduate (Malawi) and UK’s ICM Journalism and Media studies scholar. Also University of Malawi (UNIMA) Library Science Scholar. I have been The Malawi Country Manager and duty editor for the Maravi Post since 2019. My duty editor’s job is to ensure that the news is covered properly, that it is delivered on time, and that it is created to the standards set out in the editorial guidelines of the Maravi Post.