Writer: Faith Shonga Photography: Livingstone Museum
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he Livingstone Museum is the oldest and largest museum in Zambia, containing memorabilia relating to the country’s historical events and with artefacts documented graphically and in writing. It is easy to reach as it is located in the heart of the city of Livingstone, along the Mosi-oa-Tunya Road.
The museum houses different galleries covering archaeology, ethnography, ichthyology, natural history and entomology among other subjects, with artefacts and expositions delivering an insight into the national history and ethnic heritage of Zambia. The Livingstone Museum has maintained its colonial outlook and displays a vintage aircraft visible from the main highway, and the building exudes an attractive charm, enticing one to visit. Upon entering, one is greeted by friendly staff. To help find your way around the area, you can consult a large in-built trail map of the city, which includes the Victoria Falls, and there is also an old map of Zambia drawn on the wall, so you can pinpoint your location. There is helpful information displayed beside each exhibit to explain what it is and its significance. As I walked through, I learnt how humans have developed through time, and the different tools that were used by early man for various purposes. It is interesting to note that some of the ancient tools exhibited in the human development exhibition hall were actually taken from a place called Dambwa in the city of Livingstone.
I was very glad to see the life-size re-creation of a typical village set-up, complete with relics that characterise village life. It was also interesting to view the depiction of animals, insects, reptiles, fish and birdlife that appeared so true to life. I was mesmerised by the depiction of the town, with the lovely Mirage House, E. Susman General Dealers Store, a taxi with a driver and a passenger, the policeman, school children and the general community, all going about their business. I found the cultural and witchcraft section particularly fascinating, displaying articles which left a lasting impression. For example, I saw fabric made from bark cloth, traditional beads and ornaments worn by women for different reasons, roots used to increase sexual power in men and herbs used for healing and cleansing purposes. Here, too, were charms and wizardry items used to bring misfortune and even to kill, as well as tools to communicate with other wizards and witches, and others to protect oneself from harm. This section was spinetingling, not only for me but also for other people who were visiting at the same time.
It was truly fascinating to visit the Livingstone gallery and view original letters written by Dr. David Livingstone. I was intrigued to learn about his family tree and see original items that belonged to him, such as his coat, mirror and other personal possessions. It was wonderful to learn of the work that Dr Livingstone did and the loyal companions he had, such as Sussi and Chuma. I was also ecstatic when I saw a map of Zambia showing famous faces associated with the country, including freedom fighters, and to read about non-Zambians who have also visited, including Great Britain’s Queen Elizabeth 11 and former political leaders in the colonial era. It was absorbing to read articles and information about the slave trade era, pre- and postindependence articles and a description of today’s political scene. Towards the end of the tour, I saw the motorbike that belonged to the first Zambian president, Dr Kenneth David Kaunda; I enjoyed reading about him and others who had fought for Zambia’s independence. To wrap it all up, I was glad to see how this rich blend of culture, history and modern day all come alive in this vintage-themed historical house.
You can visit the museum every day (except Christmas and New Year holidays). The opening times are 9.00am to 4.30pm. Charges for Zambian residents are K10 for adults and K5 for children, while international guests are charged US$5 for adults and US$3 for children.
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TRAVEL & LEISURE ZAMBIA
THE ALL-INCLUSIVE HISTORICAL HUB
THE LIVINGSTONE MUSEUM
