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Chilanga Mulilo

Chilanga Mulilo is a Bemba word that literally translates “Show the fire”. Chilanga Mulilo is a Bemba Tradition that is done to showcase the types of food and the methods of preparing different varieties of the food typically found in bemba home. The brides to be family prepares in addition to food, traditional drinks such as Umunkoyo. The tradition has been in practice for as long as the bemba people have existed. Chilanga Mulilo tradition is an important part of the marriage process. It is done before the marriage ceremony. traditionally the groom can eat in the bride's parents' or guardians home during courtship until Chilanga Mulilo is done. Chilanga mulilo is an open invitation to the groom to dine with the bride's family. The foods, both exotic and familiar, are presented one by one. And it is explained that these are foods the bride will later prepare in their home. This occasion, other than being a "showcase" of the bride's menu, also symbolizes that the groom is responsible for the welfare of his bride from then on. He can now assume the responsibilities of taking care of his bride’s financial needs. The bride at this stage is also allowed to start cooking and doing laundry for the groom. Chilanga Mulilo has become a practice by almost all the tribes in Zambia. It is no longer a bemba tradition only as many tribes within Zambia have intermarried each other.