About the District

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Chembe District is among the 12 Districts in Luapula Province, it is greatly known for its beautiful luapula river and the mighty Mwanawasa bridge that is
Chembe plays an important role in cross-border trade and regional connectivity. Chembe’s landscape is endowed with natural beauty, including the Myengele Waterfalls and luapula river.

Chembe District was established in 2012. It was carved out of the older Mansa District by governement declaration. The district administratively subdvided into one constituency (Chembe Consituency) and eight wards: Mumfula, Luwo, Kundamfumu, Kasoma lwela, Luapula, Kapwepwe, Mushingwa and Lukola.

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To become a leading commercial by 2030 in the province

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To facilitate the transition process of Chembe into an economic hub through viable and sustainable provision of quality socio-economic services.

History of Chembe District

The town of Chembe historically served as a ferry crossing point across the Luapula river, connecting Zambia to the Congo peddicle corridor in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Due to growing traffic and trade, adecision was made to build a brige, construction began in 2007.

 

the 350 metre bridge, known as the Levy Mwanawasa Bridge was completed and commissioned in October 2008.

Levy Mwanawasa bridge

Cultural Activities

Traditional leadership in Chembe is anchored under Chief Kasomalwela, Chief Matanda and Chief Kalasa Lukangaba, whose chiefdoms provide cultural identity, land stewardship, and community guidance. The district is predominantly rural, with communities characterized by warm hospitality, strong social ties, and active participation in local development initiatives.

Chabuka traditional ceremony in Chief Matanda

Economic activities

Agriculture forms the backbone of Chembe’s economy. The district is well-known for growing large quantities of rice, especially in its wetland and dambo areas, which provide excellent conditions for small-scale and emerging rice farmers. Maize production is also widespread, with many households relying on it both as a staple food and as a source of income. The fertile soils, combined with reliable rainfall and river systems, make Chembe an important agricultural zone for Luapula Province.

Mansa Sugar factory

Tourism

Chembe’s landscape is endowed with natural beauty, including the Myengele Waterfalls,

Myengele waterfalls

Mansa Sugar factory
Chembe is home to mansa sugar
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The civic centre
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Levy Mwanawasa bridge
The bridge connect chembe to the DRC
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Myengele falls
The view of Myengele falls
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Luapula river
The shores of luapula river
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