The white Lunda chief, Peter Fisher (C) was crowned Nyamwana in 2016 In many African tribes and communities, traditional leaders are typically chosen from specific family lineages, adhering strictly to established customs. However, in the Lunda tribe of the Ikelengi District in Zambia’s North Western Province, where pineapples thrive, a unique story unfolded. Traditionally, the path to becoming a chief in this region is limited to sons, nephews, or occasionally daughters of a preceding chief.
Yet, the arrival of Peter Fisher in Zambia reshaped this narrative. Affectionately known as Chindeli cha ka Lunda—the white Lunda chief—Peter Fisher was crowned Nyamwana in 2016, a title honoring his family’s steadfast support for the local community. His full title is His Royal Highness Mwanta Nyamwana, sub-Chief of the Lunda people of Ikeleng’i District, North Western Province, Zambia.
The video player is currently playing an ad. Peter’s coronation, which occurred four years ago, drew nearly all Lunda chiefs from the Ikelengi and Mwinilunga districts, along with Senior Chief Kanongesha, who oversees both areas. This unusual turn of events followed the passing of Peter’s Israeli parents, who had lived in Mwinilunga.
Peter was reportedly adopted by the late Chief Nyamwana, who, lacking a son, named Peter as his heir. Though his role is largely ceremonial, Peter Fisher’s ascension was not entirely unexpected. The Fisher family, who arrived in Zambia when it was still North.