Mangwengwe Dance Inscribed on UNESCO’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity
The Mangwengwe Dance has officially been inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity during the 19th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Asunción, Paraguay.
The announcement was made by H.E. Ms. Nancy Ovelar de Gorostiaga, Chairperson of the Committee, and Ambassador of Paraguay to UNESCO, during a session attended by representatives from 183 States Parties, cultural institutions, and stakeholders worldwide.
The Mangwengwe Dance, originating from the Mambwe and Namwanga people of Zambia’s Northern and Muchinga Provinces, dates back to pre-colonial times. Characterized by rhythmic circular movements of the shoulders and waist, the dance involves a lead singer or dancer, supporting singers, dancers, hand clappers, and musicians.
A unique rhythm is created by rubbing wooden stools against clay pots, with women predominantly performing the dance and composing songs reflecting their everyday life, the land, and societal events.
Zambia’s inscription of the Mangwengwe Dance brings the country’s total to six elements on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List, joining other elements such as Gule Wamkulu, Makishi masquerade, and Kalela dance.
Mrs. Vivien M. C. Ndhlovu, Zambia’s Acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, expressed gratitude following the announcement. She highlighted the significance of this inscription for the practitioners of the dance and Zambia’s ongoing commitment to preserving its cultural heritage.
She also emphasized the critical role of women in safeguarding intangible cultural heritage and the importance of gender diversity in cultural practices.
“This inscription recognizes the contributions of Zambian women and reinforces our commitment to safeguarding and promoting our rich cultural heritage,” stated Mrs. Ndhlovu.
Mr. Thomas Mambo Mubita, Zambia’s Chief Culture and Folklore Officer, shared that this recognition will boost cultural tourism in Zambia by enhancing the visibility of its UNESCO-recognized cultural elements.
The Zambian delegation also included Ms. Lungowe Mangolwa, Senior Cultural Affairs Officer, and Dr. Gankhanani Moffat Moyo, an ICH expert from the University of Zambia.
