Monday, 20 January 2025

WODEMAYA BAROTSELAND

Wodemaya Barotseland is the kingdom of the Lozi people, ruled by the Litunga, their king. It shares the same national anthem with Lesotho. Although Barotseland was never colonized by the British, it was a British protectorate, similar to Lesotho and Botswana.

In 1964, prior to Zambia's independence, Barotseland entered into an agreement with Northern Rhodesia to form a united nation under the motto "One Zambia, One Nation." Northern Rhodesia was represented by Kenneth Kaunda, Zambia's first president, while Barotseland was represented by the Litunga, its king. This agreement was witnessed by Queen Elizabeth in Britain.

However, in 1969, President Kaunda violated the agreement, effectively undermining Barotseland’s autonomy and betraying the Litunga. Since 1979, people from Barotseland have protested against the Zambian government, demanding the restoration of their kingdom. Unfortunately, many have faced persecution and violence for their efforts.

Located in Southern Africa, the Litunga remains a powerful traditional leader, comparable to King Mswati III of Eswatini. Barotseland’s traditional ceremony, known as Kuomboka, is one of the most significant cultural events in Southern Africa, and arguably in the entire continent. It is worth researching further for its rich history and cultural importance.

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