THE ROLE OF TRADITIONAL CEREMONIES IN THE PRESERVATION OF ZAMBIA\'S CULTURAL HARITAGE WITH REGARDS TO UMUTOMBOKO CEREMONY OF THE LUNDA SPEAKING PEOPLE; A CASE OF TWO SELECTED DISTRICTS IN LUAPULA PROVINCE OF ZAMBIA.

The purpose of this study was investigate the role of traditional ceremonies with the particular focus on umutomboko ceremony in preserving Zambias\' cultural heritage within two selected districts, Mwansabombwe and Nchelenge of Luapula Province. The study was guarded by three specific objectives; To examine the effects of umutomboko ceremony on the preservation of zambias\' cultural heritage, To assess the extent to which umutomboko ceremony has contributed to the preservation of cultural heritage and To evaluate the effectiveness of strategies imployed during the ceremony in preserving Zambias\' cultural heritage among Lunda speaking community. The descriptive survey research design was used, utrilizing a mixed methods approach. The study involved a sample size of 120 respondents. Data analysis was done through SPSS and Excel as well as thematic approach.