Kasama, Zambia
Region: Northern Province
Geographic Coordinates: -10.211700, 31.178300
Temperature Range: 18.0°C to 30.0°C (64°F to 86°F)
Climate: Seasonal.
Population: 200000
Language: Bemba
Kasama is a city located in the Northern Province of Zambia. It is the provincial capital and has a population of over 200, 000 people, Making it one of the largest cities in the region. The city is situated on a plateau at an elevation of 1, 400 meters above sea level and is surrounded by hills and valleys. The climate in Kasama is tropical with distinct wet and dry seasons. The rainy season runs from November to April, While the dry season lasts from May to October. The average temperature ranges between 20°C to 30°C throughout the year.
Kasama has a rich history dating back to pre-colonial times when it was inhabited by various indigenous groups such as Bemba, Lunda, And Tonga tribes. During colonial rule, Kasama became an administrative center for British Northern Rhodesia (now Zambia). Today, It remains an important commercial hub for agriculture products such as maize, Beans, Cassava as well as copper mining. One of Kasama’s most notable landmarks is Chishimba Falls located about 33 km northeast of the city center. It’s a breathtaking waterfall that cascades down into a gorge with lush vegetation surrounding it.
This natural wonder attracts tourists who come to enjoy its beauty or engage in activities like hiking or bird watching. Another attraction worth visiting while in Kasama is Kundabwika Falls also known as Devil’s Pool. This waterfall features several pools where visitors can swim or relax while enjoying stunning views of nature around them. Kasanka National Park located about 120 km southeast of Kasama offers exciting wildlife viewing opportunities including sightings of rare sitatunga antelopes that are only found here in Africa!
Visitors can also see other animals like elephants and buffalos among others while on game drives through this park which covers over 400 square kilometers. In terms of culture and traditions, Kasama hosts several traditional ceremonies such as the Ncwala ceremony which is celebrated by the Bemba people in February each year. This festival involves various cultural activities like dancing, Singing, And feasting on traditional foods. Kasama is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture that attracts visitors from all over the world.
Its natural beauty combined with wildlife viewing opportunities makes it an ideal destination for nature lovers. Whether you’re interested in exploring its waterfalls or experiencing its cultural festivities, Kasama has something for everyone!
- Chishimba Falls – A stunning waterfall located about 33 kilometers from Kasama.
- Kasanka National Park – A wildlife reserve known for its bat migration and birdwatching opportunities.
- Shiwa Ng’andu – An estate built by a British aristocrat in the early 20th century that offers tours and accommodation.
- Kundalila Falls – Another beautiful waterfall located about 30 kilometers from Kasama.
- Lake Chila – A serene lake with fishing opportunities and picnic spots.
- Kapishya Hot Springs – Natural hot springs located near Shiwa Ng’andu that offer relaxation and therapeutic benefits.
- Mwela Rock Paintings – Ancient rock paintings dating back to prehistoric times that depict hunting scenes and daily life activities of the local people.
- Bisa People Cultural Centre – A museum showcasing the culture, traditions, and history of the Bisa people who inhabit the region around Kasama.
- Moto Moto Museum – The museum exhibits various traditional items such as musical instruments used by different tribes in Zambia.
- Nsobe Game Camp – It is a game reserve which offers camping facilities with different activities such as horse riding, fishing etc.
- Agriculture
- Production of maize, cotton, tobacco, and other crops
- Mining
- Copper and cobalt extraction
- Tourism
- Natural attractions such as Lake Chila and Kasanka National Park
- Retail trade
- Small businesses such as markets and shops selling local goods
- Service sector
- Healthcare facilities
- Education institutions like universities & colleges etc.
- Banking services
- Government offices
- The Bemba Kingdom: Kasama was once the capital of the Bemba Kingdom, which was one of the most extensive pre-colonial kingdoms in central Africa.
- David Livingstone: In 1867, Scottish explorer and missionary David Livingstone visited Kasama during his exploration of Africa.
- The Mwata Kazembe: A traditional ruler who governs parts of Zambia and Congo DRC, the Mwata Kazembe’s palace is located in Kasama.
- Independence Movement: During the 1950s and 60s, Kasama played a crucial role as an important center for the independence movement against British colonial rule in Zambia.
- Kenneth Kaunda: Kenneth Kaunda was a prominent Zambian politician who played a vital role in securing independence from Britain in 1964. He served as Zambia’s first president from 1964 to 1991 and had close ties to Kasama.
- Michael Sata: Born near Kasama, Michael Sata was another influential Zambian politician who served as president from 2011 until his death in office in 2014.
- Chiluba Trial: In the early 2000s, former Zambian President Frederick Chiluba faced corruption charges that were tried at the High Court of Zambia’s Northern Province based out of Kasama courtrooms.
- Mansa Musa I Mosque: Mansa Musa I built this mosque near kasana which attracts tourists globally due to its historical significance.
- Kasanka National Park: This national park is famous for its bat migration event every year during November-December period which attracts tourists globally.
These are some of the most notable historical events and people associated with Kasama, Zambia.
- Kasama Museum
- Chishimba Falls
- Moto Moto Museum
- Kundalila Falls
- Kasanka National Park
- Kapishya Hot Springs
- Shiwa Ng’andu Estate and Lake Shiwa Ng’andu
- Mwela Rock Paintings
- Kalambo Falls
- Mpumba Rock Shelter
- N’cwala Ceremony: This is a traditional ceremony of the Ngoni people held in February to celebrate the first harvest of the year.
- Ukusefya pa Ng’wena Ceremony: This is a traditional ceremony of the Bemba people held in August to celebrate their cultural heritage.
- Kazanga Festival: This is a music festival that takes place annually in Kasama and features local and international artists.
- Independence Day Celebrations: On October 24th every year, Zambia celebrates its independence from British colonial rule with parades, speeches, and other festivities.
- International Women’s Day: On March 8th every year, various events are organized to celebrate women’s achievements and promote gender equality.
- World AIDS Day: On December 1st every year, various activities are organized to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment in Kasama.
- Christmas Celebrations: In December each year, many churches hold special services and events to mark the birth of Jesus Christ according to Christian beliefs.
Please note that due to COVID-19 restrictions or other factors some of these events may not be taking place at this time or may have been cancelled altogether so it is important for you to check with local authorities before attending any event during your visit.
- Nshima is a staple food made from maize flour served with various stews or relishes.
- Chikanda is a type of cake made from ground peanuts and cassava flour.
- Kapenta is small freshwater fish usually fried or grilled with spices.
- Munkoyo is a traditional fermented drink made from maize meal, water, and sugar.
- Village Chicken Restaurant serves traditional Zambian dishes like nshima with chicken stew and kapenta.
- Kunda Lodge Restaurant offers international cuisine as well as Zambian specialties like roasted goat meat.
- Lusaka Restaurant & Takeaway serves fast food options like burgers and chips but also has local dishes like nshima with beef stew.
- Yummy Bites Cafe & Grill House serves grilled meats, sandwiches, pizzas but also has some Zambian dishes on the menu such as kapenta with nshima.
- Chishimba Falls: This beautiful waterfall is located about 30 km from Kasama and is a popular picnic spot with camping facilities.
- Lake Chila: A large lake located approximately 20 km from Kasama, it is an excellent location for fishing, boating, and bird watching.
- Mwela Rock Paintings: These ancient rock paintings date back to the Stone Age era and are situated about 50 km from Kasama.
- Bemba Royal Palace: The traditional home of the Bemba people’s paramount chief offers visitors an opportunity to learn more about local culture.
- Kasanka National Park: This wildlife reserve hosts a variety of animals such as elephants, leopards, hippos, and antelopes.
- Moto Moto Museum: Dedicated to preserving the history and culture of the Bemba people.
- Chimfushi Wildlife Orphanage: An animal sanctuary where visitors can interact with orphaned elephants and other wildlife species.
- Mungwi Hot Springs: Natural hot springs believed to have healing properties due to their high mineral content.
- Kasama Golf Club: A golf course used for leisure activities.
