In the usually peaceful fishing district of Samfya, Luapula Province, tongues are wagging and gossip is spreading rapidly after news broke of two married couples willingly exchanging partners. Residents of Musaba Ward in Senior Chief Kalasa Mukoso’s chiefdom have put aside their daily activities, leaving fishing nets adrift on Lake Bangweulu and farming tools idle in the fields, as they discuss the scandalous affair.
Headman Champion Chisala convened a meeting of village elders after Josephine Mbilima reported suspicious behavior involving her 28-year-old daughter, Esther Mbilima, a community teacher. Esther was found bringing another man into her home whenever her husband, Joseph Musenge, a 30-year-old shop owner, was away.
Investigations revealed that Joseph was fully aware of the affair and was himself romantically involved with Mary Mwila, 26, the wife of Esther’s lover, Mathew Ngosa, a 31-year-old farmer. When confronted, all four individuals confirmed the arrangement, but villagers are now left wondering if there is more to the story.
“my fellow villagers believe this is a ritual aimed at acquiring wealth,” said one elder who attended the meeting.
“Joseph Musenge is a shop owner, and people think he might be using this situation to gain more prosperity It’s unheard of and many are suspicious,” another elder said.
Headman Chisala acknowledged the speculation but maintained his focus on addressing the cultural and moral implications of the affair.
“I don’t know what would make people comfortable with such a situation We are counseling them but if this is tied to rituals it’s even more troubling because Our culture does not condone such practices.” said the headman
Villagers have expressed mixed emotions about the scandal. While some are urging the couples to leave the village, others insist on a thorough investigation into whether ritualistic beliefs are influencing their actions.
“This is not just about immorality; there’s something deeper here People don’t break such taboos without a reason,” Mbilima said
The elders have vowed to consult spiritual leaders and traditional healers to determine if the situation could indeed be tied to ritual wealth-seeking practices. Meanwhile, the couples face mounting pressure to explain their actions and make amends to restore harmony in the community.
The unfolding drama has sparked widespread debate about the erosion of traditional values and the lengths some individuals may go to in pursuit of material gain.
