Insaka Festival Shinesh

Chimpindi says a three-day national celebrations will bring together all top Zambian artists, creativity, and cultural unity.

By Francis Maingaila ♥️ 

Lusaka , Zambia24 – (17-09-2025) - Zambia’s vibrant music and cultural scene took center stage this weekend as the Insaka Cultural Music Festival kicked off in Lusaka, drawing artists, sponsors, and enthusiasts from across the country. Organized by Chronos Events, the festival celebrates national diversity while promoting unity, creativity, and identity.

National Arts Council of Zambia Director Adrian Maanka Chipindi highlighted the festival’s economic and social significance.

“Over 22,000 Zambians are employed in the creative sector, making arts and culture a major contributor to national development,” he said during a media briefing at the Wonderful Group of Companies headquarters.

Speaking as Guest of Honour, Chipindi said the festival goes beyond entertainment, generating jobs, empowering youth, and fostering social cohesion. 

“Platforms like this amplify our artists’ visibility, encourage cultural exchange, and inspire young people to view art as both expression and livelihood,” he added.

Chipindi thanked sponsors and partners, including Wonderful Group of Companies, PG Meats, International Hospital of Zambia, Primedia, and Crown TV, describing Zambian artists as cultural ambassadors whose work promotes the nation’s heritage internationally.

“Supporting culture is supporting development. It creates employment, strengthens identity, and builds resilience in our communities,” he said.

Emmanuel, representing Chronos Events, emphasized the festival’s inclusivity. “Fridays are dedicated to students and emerging talents, but the festival welcomes everyone. We encourage participants to come in traditional attire and enjoy themselves,” he said.

Media partners amplified the festival’s reach. Kasuba Musonda of Media Key Marketing explained their role in promoting the event across digital platforms, while Side Konjela of Crown Television noted coverage spans DSTV, GOtv, StarTimes, and online platforms, ensuring performances reach national and international audiences.

Wonderful Group of companies is one of the main sponsors for the Insaka Festival billed for 19th to 21st September 2025 at Lusaka's show grounds.

Speaking during a press briefing in Lusaka, company Commercial Officer Abigail Mwenda said the company is proud to support the unique celebration of Zambia as a country through arts, culture and Music.

Ms Mwenda said the music festival unites tradition, religion, arts and culture into one platform.

"Supporting this music festival reflects our commitment to youth, culture and identity, because creating the future is not just about industry it's about people, communities and celebrating moments like this together" said Ms Mwenda 

Mwenda a  commercial officer at Wonderful Group highlighted the festival’s role in uniting tradition, religion, arts, and culture. 

“Supporting this festival reflects our commitment to youth, community, and cultural identity. It is a celebration of both our heritage and our future,” she said.

Sponsors also reinforced the festival’s commercial and safety aspects. Chamileta Lubinda of PG Mix said the event provides a platform to showcase products, while Alexanderia Maunga of International Hospital confirmed emergency medical services were on standby.

The Zambia Association of Musicians, through Secretary General Chomba Malembeka, praised the festival for promoting national identity through music.

“This festival embodies Zambia’s diversity and gives musicians a platform to showcase talent. Music drives unity, enhances our identity, and generates economic opportunities,” he said.

Artists celebrated the opportunities the festival provides. Moses Sakala described it as a milestone for Zambian music, while Dan Siulapwa highlighted its growth since 2019, noting that local festivals can achieve international standards. 

Gospel artist Pastor Washi Mtambo welcomed the inclusion of Christian music, saying, “Music is a universal language that connects people, and God unites us as a nation.”

Female artists also praised the platform for increasing visibility. Veteran singer Angela Nyirenda noted growing opportunities for women across genres, while Debora Wakama and Kandela thanked organizers, sponsors, and media for creating spaces for performance, learning, and cultural exchange.

Chikondi Banda of the Wonderful Group reflected on the festival’s journey. 

“What began as a vision has now become a reality. This festival is here to stay, and we are committed to expanding it each year,” she said.

The Insaka Cultural Music Festival continues to be hailed as a platform that celebrates Zambia’s cultural heritage, strengthens the creative sector, fosters national unity, and lays the foundation for future international collaborations.