THE JELE NGONIS OF ZAMBIA

The Jele Ngonis of Zambia escorting their Ngwenyema, Inkhosi Ya Makhosi Mphezeni, in spectacular fashion, during their royal pilgrimage called the Incwala in Mtengeluni, Eastern Zambia.

The ceremony immortalizes a kingdom and draws a global crowd as both Ngonis and non Ngonis throng the sacred grounds of Mtengeluni to pay homage to their ancestral spirits.

The ceremony climaxes when a black bull is speared and quickly a Ngoni impi slits it's throat and collects it's blood which is carried on the Ngwembe and given to King Mphezeni who then drinks the blood.

As it concludes, different kraals or vibayas take to the dance floor to show case their warrior dance which the call the Ingoma dance.

The ceremony is ancient and even predates the Ngonis inspirational figurehead, Uzwangendaba Jele as it has its roots in the St Lucia Bay area in present day South Africa.

In 1898, the colonial government in Zambia had banned it, describing it as being warlike. For at least 80 years, the Ngonis were denied the celebration of their identity. But in 1980, His Majesty, King Pontino Khuzwayo Jele revived the Incwala, an emotional period for some like Induna Kasambamulopa who lived enough to witness the grand day
 

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