April 24, 2025
Senior Chieftainess Nkomeshya Mukambo II of the Soli people has called on traditional leaders to collaborate with policymakers in safeguarding indigenous food systems and empowering local farmers, particularly women, who she described as the custodians of traditional food knowledge.
The remarks were delivered on her behalf by Prince Kabwata Nkomeshya during a two-day intergenerational learning workshop under the Urban Futures project, held in Chongwe District. The project is being implemented by CUTS International Lusaka, Global Network Solution, and Hivos.
Dr. Senior Chieftainess Nkomeshya highlighted that in Soli culture, food is not only a source of nourishment but also a symbol of identity and connection to ancestry.
“Traditional food practices serve as informal education systems where children and youth learn discipline, patience, and gender roles through farming, harvesting, and cooking,” She said.
“Food binds our people together and plays a central role in traditional ceremonies such as Chakwela Makumbi, where the planting season begins under spiritual guidance.”
She emphasized that certain crops, such as sorghum, millet, and local pumpkins, hold spiritual significance and are used in rituals and ancestral offerings.
“As traditional leaders, we have a responsibility to promote traditional diets over modern processed foods, preserve seed banks and indigenous farming practices, and support local farmers through land access and the formation of community cooperatives,” She added.
Chongwe District Commissioner Dr. Evans Lupiya, in a speech delivered by Dr. Francis Mwannza noted that with increasing urbanization, climate change, and health challenges, it is crucial to reflect on food production and consumption patterns.
“Food is not just nourishment—it is a reflection of our social, economic, and environmental choices. Poor diets and unsustainable food systems are contributing to rising health issues such as malnutrition, obesity, and non-communicable diseases, particularly among youth, while also placing unsustainable pressure on natural resources,” he said.
Welcoming participants to the workshop, CUTS board member Mr. Sajeev Nair explained that the Urban Futures project is a five-year initiative being implemented in Chongwe. It seeks to promote sustainable food systems by working closely with youth and fostering intergenerational knowledge exchange.
The workshop brought together traditional leaders, youth representatives, civil society, and local authorities to deliberate on the role of indigenous knowledge and practices in building climate-resilient, inclusive urban food systems.