AN invisible but fierce contest of witchcraft between Zambia and Malawi caused the violent fall of the Nyau dancer during the Kulamba traditional ceremony in Katete last Saturday, sources familiar to the happenings have told #Kalemba.

During the ceremony attended by Presidents Hakainde Hichilema and Dr Lazarus Chakwera, a masked Gule Wamukulu traditional dancer flew down and violently collided with the ground after ascending a 10-metre lean stick to showcase his odd dancing skills, thanks to intangible science practised by the Chewas.

Yesterday, secretary of the Cultural Committee in Mkaika Katete chief Chanje explained that the aviation accident was due to what he called a “technical fault”.

“Our technician who was in charge at that time in our control room, was a bit busy with other things in the same room and that’s why Gologolo fell down but everything is fine but let’s all remember that Gulewamkulu is the masterpiece of all the dances in the world awarded by UNESCO,” explained chief Chanje of the Chewa people of Chipangali district.

As the fallen hero was being carried of the arena, some locals in attendance could be heard saying; “nivi Malawi ivi (This is the doing of Malawians).”

But a source with inside information said Malawian dark powers were responsible for the fall of the poor Nyau dancer.

The source said while the Kulamba traditional ceremony was a happy occasion meant for celebrating culture for ordinary people, it always presented an opportunity for a fierce international contest of black magic between Zambian Nyau dancers and their Malawian rivals.

The source revealed that although the contest is always stiff, Malawi has a better head-to-head record having outdone Zambia on several occasions.

Malawi, who are regarded COSAFA champions in the regional witchcraft contest, displayed wizardry prowess as they once again brought shame to their next door neighbors.

Soon after eliminating competition from the arena, Malawian Nyau dancers stepped in and performed with no glitch.

According to the source, Mozambican Chewa dancers are considered wizard underdogs who rarely take part in the contest.

One wonders whether Gologolo will ever take the risk of climbing such a lean, long pole in the presence of opponents from Malawi.

Whatever the case, Zambia and Malawi Nyau dancers, according to the source, are on a collision path where display of acts of sorcery are concerned.

Let’s wait for August 2023 for another Kulamba traditional ceremony, and see who will dwarf who.