THE aroma of spices filled the air, a symphony of Zambian flavours about to unfold.
Aaron Beach, an American groom-to-be, stood expectantly. as women entered the venue within Lusaka’s Woodlands stadium chanting “Chilanga Mulilo twaleta”
The Saturday that fell on May 11 wasn’t just a pre-wedding ceremony; it was a culinary adventure into Aaron’s future wife, gospel artiste, Tendai Makoni’s heritage.
This was Chilanga Mulilo, a Bemba tradition meaning “showing the fire” in direct translation, perhaps to indicate the whole process of cooking using the fire.
Chilanga Mulilo is a pre-wedding ceremony practiced by the Bemba people of Zambia and involves the bride’s family preparing a feast for the groom.
This feast serves two purposes; to introduce the groom to the culinary traditions of his future wife’s family and to formally invite the groom to share meals with the bride’s family, as traditionally, grooms weren’t welcome at the bride’s family meals during courtship.
Ladies clad in white tops and vibrant chitenge material arrived, as playful banter between the females of the two families filled the room.
“Speak English, this is an international Chilanga Mulilo,” a woman shouted as people busted in laughter.
“From nowhere, a voice shouted, the owners of the nondos!” Creating an atmosphere of more laughter and joy as someone responded “laugh in English.”
The air crackled with excitement as they presented Aaron with an array of Zambian delicacies – delele (okra), chibwabwa, impwa, Munkoyo, Ubwali, Chikanda, inkoko and more.
Aaron’s eyes sparkled with curiosity as he received the feast while following the steps from his counselor, Shibukombe was telling him.
The men joined in the merriment, showering blessings with their Dunku. As the formalities concluded, it was time for “Zampa” – a free-for-all where everyone savored the delicious spread to their heart’s content with each bite a unique explosion of flavour.
Laughter, joy, and the promise of a beautiful union filled the air. This Chilanga Mulilo wasn’t just a ceremony; it was a bridge between cultures, a delicious start to a love story that crossed continents.
And of course, Aaron and Tendai’s event saved some bachelors as after the formalities where done, most single men and a few married men utilised their take away packs while they dished themselves to mountains of food to their satisfaction.
With full bellies and happy hearts, Aaron and Tendai were ready to embark on their journey to forever.
By Moses Makwaya
Kalemba June 3, 2024
