With his bright traditional attire, theatrical personality and beaming smile, Edward is a member of the Lozi tribe and can be found smartly dressed in his tribe’s ceremonial Siziba costume of a white shirt, skirt, long stockings and red beret. Says Edward, ‘We live a peaceful, harmonious life, all working together within our communities, and I love to explain how our way of life continues to thrive. For instance when it comes to a wedding, the families of the bride and groom all sit down together and discuss issues relating to their children and respective families, to ensure a prosperous marriage and to live as one big happy family.’
‘I love my job because I’m a jovial person and really enjoy interacting with people from all walks of life’, enthuses Edward. ‘Zambia has such a rich history, a diverse tribal heritage and many natural wonders that locals have their own stories about. It’s my pleasure to take guests on a storytelling journey at a hotel where they can see, taste and feel it all for themselves.’
Edward is obviously very passionate about all things Zambia and about the wildlife says, ‘We have 19 national parks and I have many memories about the animals I’ve encountered, from rhinos, elephants, hippos, wilder beast and warthogs, to the incredible number of birds. For those who prefer more peaceful viewing, guests can relax on platforms on the bank of the Zambezi to drink in the sights and sounds of river life, with me as their narrator. As a keen fisherman, I can pass on my knowledge to anglers, like how it’s easier to catch fish during hot season because they come to the surface, the best spots to test their skills against the tiger fish, and how we cook the prize catches for our families.’
Guests are encouraged to walk in the hotel’s gardens. The many aromas, flavours and medicinal benefits of the herbs in the gardens can be brought to life through stories which Edward would be only too pleased to dish up.