Rituals meant to appease the waters of Lake Kariba and safeguard the people living along its shores have not been carried out in two years, according to Chief Nyamhunga, who blames an ongoing disagreement among the area’s traditional rulers.
The Chief made the remarks to ZBC News at Nyamhunga Stadium on Thursday, where a memorial service was being held for the 44 people who died when a ferry capsized on Lake Kariba on Tuesday. He explained that it is impossible for him to conduct the necessary rites while rivalry divides the traditional leadership.
At the heart of the dispute, he said, is a tussle over who is entitled to head the ceremonies. Chief Nyamhunga insists that the role rightfully belongs to him as Chief Nyamhunga, yet he has chosen to withdraw for now rather than push forward against the opposition of his rivals.
The consequences of the lapse in rituals have already been felt across the community, he added, pointing to attacks on residents by wild animals and a decline in kapenta catches from Lake Kariba.
Looking ahead, Chief Nyamhunga called for unity among the area’s spirit mediums, urging them to join forces in performing the traditional ceremonies that would calm the lake’s waters and restore prosperity to the people who depend on it.
