Abstract: | Short note to introduce strangers into the customs of the matrilineal matri-local Bemba; the feeling of Bemba-ism (BuBemba); nsaka, the social centre of the Bemba village; shibukombe, an elderly person who negotiates about marriage; nsalamu, a small trifle or initial present constituting betrothal; ukwishisha, a token of money and the process which allows a girl to start conversing with her betrothed; mpango, the fixed marriage price; ukutipwila, the marriage ceremony; bukwe, exchange of gifts between the family members during the time of engagement; mupunga, a cow's tail held by the bridegroom on the wedding day; kulubs, the wedding ceremony; nachimbusa, domestic instructor to the girl; cisungu, payment of virginity money; kwingisha, 'acceptance into the family ceremony'; mupashi, the guardian spirit from the father's side; nkula, powder serving at teething; chinkula, child not regarded a normal child; nkashi, clan sister; mpokeleshi, the free woman given to the man. |