- Ritual
- Icisungu／Chisungu
- Region and community
- ザンビア・ベンバ社会など
- Age at the cultural rite
- Variable or not confirmed in the source
- Transition conditions
- Community initiation / Menarche or physical maturity / Trial or training
- Legal age of majority
- ZambiaGeneral civil age of majority remains unidentified · Article 266 of the constitution as amended in 2025 defines adults as 18 or older; full application to civil capacity is unverified.Zambia · Law and supporting sources
About the rite
Among Bemba and other communities in Zambia, older women guide girls who have reached puberty through Icisungu, also written Chisungu. The girls learn about bodily changes, family life and what the community expects of them. Songs, dancing and gifts may accompany the public celebration at the end.
A 2023 report followed three girls receiving instruction in Chipungu, in Rufunsa District. Research published that year also described changing forms of the practice in Kabwe, Lusaka and Petauke. Some of the teachings remain the subject of debate about health and human rights.
Related rites
