Nation Mourns Paramount Chief Mpezeni IV

Paramount Chief Mpezeni IV of the Ngoni people has died at the age of 75, bringing to a close one of Zambia's longest traditional reigns. He passed away in the early hours of the morning at the University Teaching Hospital in Lusaka, with his body since moved to Maina Soko Military Hospital.

His death was confirmed by Senior Chief Nzamane at a media briefing held at the palace in Chipata. Further details on funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in due course.

Born David Njengembazo Jele, the late Chief spent his early years in his village of Efeni in Chipata District before working in a factory in Livingstone. He ascended to the throne in 1982, following the death of his father, and was crowned at the age of 31 in a ceremony attended by Ngoni royal figures from Zambia and Malawi, as well as Zambia's first President, Dr Kenneth Kaunda.

Over his 44-year reign, Mpezeni IV became a revered custodian of Ngoni culture. He strengthened the Ncwala first-fruits ceremony, held each February, into a gathering that draws thousands, and maintained strong ties with regional leaders. He was also the first Mpezeni to return to his forefathers' ancestral land in South Africa.

President Hakainde Hichilema led national tributes, describing the Chief as a unifying figure whose distinguished service will remain part of Zambia's heritage. The Government, through Permanent Secretary Thabo Kawana, conveyed its condolences and pledged to work closely with the Ngoni Royal Establishment.