03/06/2026
UNDERSTANDING THE CHIMBUYA TRADITION.
By Dickson Jere (Expanded Version)
There appears to be considerable misunderstanding regarding the Chimbuya tradition and how it is practiced within Bemba culture. It is important that younger generations and those unfamiliar with the custom take time to understand its purpose, meaning, and rules before commenting on it.
Chimbuya is not intended to humiliate, embarrass, or punish mourners. Rather, it is a traditional fundraising mechanism designed to support a bereaved family during a difficult period of mourning and funeral preparations.
The practice is guided by specific rules and customs that must be respected.
The following are some of the fundamental principles governing Chimbuya:
1. The Primary Purpose Is Contribution, Not Smearing
The first and most important expectation is that individuals contribute financially towards the funeral. The application of white powder or chalk-like substance only comes into play when a person refuses or fails to make the expected contribution.
In other words, the objective is not to smear people, but to encourage participation in helping the bereaved family. Chimbuya is fundamentally a community fundraising exercise rooted in solidarity and shared responsibility.
2. All Contributions Belong to the Bereaved Family
Money collected through Chimbuya is carefully accounted for and handed over to the bereaved family. These funds assist with funeral expenses, food for mourners, transportation, burial costs, and other related arrangements.
It is important to emphasize that the money is not collected for personal gain by those administering the tradition. The entire purpose is to provide practical support to the family that has suffered a loss.
3. Smearing Must Be Modest and Respectful
Where smearing becomes necessary, it should be done in a restrained and respectful manner. Traditionally, only a small amount of the white substance is applied to the forehead.
The intention is merely to indicate that a contribution has not yet been made. It is not meant to shame or degrade an individual. Smearing a person's entire face, damaging clothing, or engaging in excessive conduct falls outside the accepted norms of the tradition.
4. The Practice Is Restricted to Funeral Settings
Chimbuya is conducted only within the context of mourning. It is normally performed at the funeral house or at the burial site.
The tradition should not be taken into offices, workplaces, schools, public streets, or other unrelated settings. Furthermore, it must be carried out solemnly and respectfully, remembering that it is associated with the death of a community member. The mourning aspect should never be turned into entertainment or public spectacle.
5. Closing the Mourning House Is Part of the Custom
In some instances, when mourners leave for the burial site, the house of mourning may be symbolically closed. Upon their return, a small "ransom" or contribution may be requested before the house is reopened.
This practice is part of the traditional ceremony and should not be misunderstood. Just like other Chimbuya contributions, any money collected is ultimately passed on to the bereaved family to assist with funeral-related needs.
Conclusion
Chimbuya is a long-standing cultural tradition founded on community support, respect for the bereaved, and collective responsibility. When practiced correctly, it serves as a meaningful way for people to contribute to funeral arrangements and stand with a family during a time of grief.
However, the tradition must always be conducted within its established rules, with dignity, restraint, and respect for both the mourners and the deceased.
Now that the rules and purpose of Chimbuya have been explained, it is important that misconceptions and abuses of the practice cease, and that the tradition be understood in its proper cultural context.
