Ncwala is the Zambian first-fruits festival celebrated by the Ngoni people.
Held in Zambia’s Eastern Province, Ncwala is associated with the Ngoni community and traditionally takes place at Mtenguleni. The ceremony gives thanks for the first harvest and has strong links to Ngoni identity, kingship, history, and public life.
A central feature is the presentation and ceremonial tasting of first fruits, especially produce from the new agricultural season. The event also includes dancing, singing, traditional dress, speeches, and the participation of chiefs and community members.
Ncwala is sometimes described simply as a harvest festival, but “first-fruits festival” is more precise: the ritual focuses on the season’s earliest produce rather than only on the completion of harvesting. It is also distinct from Zulu first-fruits celebrations in South Africa, which have different names and local traditions.