New Digs at Ingombe Ilede Uncover Zambia’s 13th Century Trade Secrets

By Pauline Ngozoh

Officials said the project, under the Zambezi Project, aims to deepen understanding of one of Zambia’s most significant pre-colonial sites and update historical interpretations. Researchers reported that ongoing digs are uncovering more complex archaeological deposits than previously recorded, with fresh insights into the site’s role in regional trade networks, cultural interactions, and early settlement patterns dating back to the 13th century.

NHCC Director of Conservation Services, Macmillan Mudenda, who toured the site, noted that the findings are expected to strengthen Ingombe Ilede’s status as a heritage asset of both national and regional importance.

NHCC Conservation Officer Victor Syatyoka said the current research is revealing new evidence that will refine historical interpretation and help move beyond established narratives about the ancient settlement. He added that the Commission is committed to using the findings to improve site interpretation, public education, and sustainable heritage tourism.

University of York Professor Stephanie Wynne-Jones also indicated that the excavations will broaden understanding of communities that lived in the area before the 15th Century, stressing that Ingombe Ilede is key to understanding societies before Portuguese contact on the Zambezi.

As part of the initiative, six students from the University of Zambia are participating in the fieldwork to gain practical experience in excavation methods and heritage documentation. The students’ representative said the programme has provided valuable hands-on training using modern archaeological equipment.

The NHCC stated that the collaboration demonstrates the value of international partnerships and capacity building in safeguarding Zambia’s archaeological heritage for research, education, and tourism development.