Kasama: The Hidden Gem of Zambia

• HelloMwaiseni
  [Mwai-se-ni]
• GoodbyeSalamuka
  [Sa-la-mu-ka]
• YesEe
  [Ee]
• NoAwe
  [A-we]
• Please/You're welcomeTafadhali
  [Ta-fa-dha-li]
• Thank youTwalumba
  [Twa-lum-ba]
• Excuse me/SorryPeza
  [Pe-za]
• How are you?Muli shani?
  [Mu-li sha-ni]
• Fine. And you?Napangwa. Iwe?
  [Na-pang-wa. I-we]
• Do you speak English?Mwandikonda cinyanja?
  [Mwan-di-kon-da ci-nyan-ja]
• I don't understandSindikumvetsera
  [Sin-di-kum-vet-se-ra]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNdikufuna kuyaona menu, chonde
  [Ndi-ku-fu-na ku-ya-o-na me-nu, cho-nde]
• I don't eat meatSindidya nyama
  [Sin-di-dya nya-ma]
• Cheers!Tukonkone!
  [Tu-kon-ko-ne]
• I would like to pay, pleaseNdikufuna kulipira, chonde
  [Ndi-ku-fu-na ku-li-pi-ra, cho-nde]

• Help!Chitani!
  [Chi-ta-ni]
• Go away!Pita!
  [Pi-ta]
• Call the Police!Pangani pulis!
  [Pan-ga-ni pu-lis]
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  [Pan-ga-ni dak-ta-la]
• I'm lostNili pansi
  [Ni-li pan-si]
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  [Ni-li wo-gwi-li-ra]

• I'd like to buy...Ndikufuna kudzala...
  [Ndi-ku-fu-na ku-dza-la]
• I'm just lookingNdili kuoneka
  [Ndi-li ku-o-ne-ka]
• How much is it?Nthawi zina kuti?
  [Ntha-wi zi-na ku-ti]
• That's too expensiveIvi ndiye wachuluka kwambiri
  [I-vi ndye wa-chu-lu-ka kwan-bi-ri]
• Can you lower the price?Mukhoza kupanga chithunzi?
  [Mu-kho-za ku-pan-ga chi-thun-zi]

• What time is it?Nthawi yake ndiyani?
  [Ntha-wi ya-ke ndi-ya-ni]
• It's one o'clockYaiti nthawi yomwe
  [Ya-i-ti ntha-wi yom-we]
• Half past (10)Nthawi ndi nthawi yodwala
  [Ntha-wi ndi ntha-wi yo-dwa-la]
• MorningUsiku
  [U-si-ku]
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  [Ma-wa]
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• 7Zachitatu
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• 8Zachinayi nane
  [Za-chi-na-yi na-ne]
• 9Zachinayi kumi
  [Za-chi-na-yi ku-mi]
• 10Kumi
  [Ku-mi]

• Where's a/the...?Ndiyani pakuti...?
  [Ndi-ya-ni pa-ku-ti]
• What's the address?Adilesi yomwe ndiyani?
  [A-di-le-si yo-mwe ndi-ya-ni]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Mukhoza kundipanga (pamapu)?
  [Mu-kho-za kun-di-pan-ga (pa-mapu)]
• When's the next (bus)?Nthawi yomwe yatayika (bus)?
  [Ntha-wi yo-mwe ya-ta-yi-ka (bus)]
• A ticket (to ....)Chithunzi (kuti ....)
  [Chi-thun-zi (ku-ti)]

Before the advent of colonial rule, Kasama was primarily inhabited by the Bemba people, one of the largest ethnic groups in Zambia. The Bemba established their kingdom in the region, and their influence can still be felt today in the local customs, language, and traditions. They engaged in farming, hunting, and ironworking, and had a well-organized social structure with chiefs and councils.

In the late 19th century, European missionaries began arriving in the Kasama area. The White Fathers, a Catholic missionary group, were among the first to establish a mission in 1895. They played a significant role in the spread of Christianity and Western education in the region. The influence of these missionaries is evident in the numerous churches and schools that dot the landscape of Kasama.

Kasama became a focal point during the colonial era when the British South Africa Company administered Northern Rhodesia, now Zambia. In 1898, Kasama was designated as the administrative capital of the North-Eastern Rhodesia territory. The town's strategic importance grew as it became a center for colonial governance and trade. This period saw the construction of infrastructure such as roads and administrative buildings, shaping the town's modern layout.

Kasama played a pivotal role in Zambia's struggle for independence from British colonial rule. The town was a hotbed of political activity, with many local leaders participating in the nationalist movement. Notably, Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe, a prominent figure in Zambia's independence struggle and the country's first Vice President, hailed from the Kasama region. His legacy is commemorated in various landmarks and institutions in the town.

Following Zambia's independence in 1964, Kasama continued to develop as an important regional center. The town saw investments in infrastructure, healthcare, and education. The establishment of the Kasama General Hospital and various educational institutions marked significant milestones in the town's growth. Kasama also became a hub for agricultural activities, with the surrounding areas producing crops such as maize, beans, and cassava.

Kasama is rich in cultural heritage, with the Bemba people maintaining many of their traditional practices. The Ukusefya Pa Ng’wena ceremony is one of the most significant cultural festivals celebrated in Kasama. This annual event, held in August, commemorates the migration and settlement of the Bemba people in the region. The festival features traditional dances, music, and rituals, offering visitors a vibrant and immersive experience of Bemba culture.

Kasama is not only significant for its historical and cultural heritage but also for its natural attractions. The Chishimba Falls, located approximately 33 kilometers from Kasama town, is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Zambia. The falls are a sacred site for the Bemba people, who believe in the presence of spirits in the area. Visitors can explore the lush surroundings, enjoy the scenic beauty, and learn about the local myths and legends associated with the falls.

Kasama is located in the Northern Province of Zambia. The nearest international airport is Kenneth Kaunda International Airport in Lusaka, approximately 850 kilometers away. From Lusaka, you can either take a domestic flight to Kasama Airport or travel by road. The road journey can take around 10 to 12 hours by bus or car. There are also trains operated by Zambia Railways from Lusaka to Kasama, offering a scenic but longer journey.

Kasama is a small town, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips, local taxis are readily available and relatively inexpensive. Buses and minibuses (known locally as 'matatus') operate within the town and connect to nearby villages. Renting a car can also be a convenient option for exploring the surrounding areas at your own pace.

The official currency in Zambia is the Zambian Kwacha (ZMW). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in Kasama, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash in Lusaka before traveling to ensure you have enough funds.

Kasama is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While Kasama doesn’t have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 999 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Kasama. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always show respect when visiting churches and traditional sites. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A friendly smile and a 'Muli bwanji?' (How are you?) can go a long way. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Kasama like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Zambian goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town's history and culture. Don’t miss visiting the Chishimba Falls, one of the most beautiful natural attractions in the area. For a unique experience, visit the Kasama Cathedral, a historic site with stunning architecture.