Lewanika II
| Born | Barotseland, Northern Rhodesia |
|---|---|
| Nationality | Zambian / Barotse |
| Occupation | Litunga (King of Barotseland) |
| Years active | 1968–1977 |
| Known for | Overseeing Barotseland during the abrogation of the Barotseland Agreement of 1964 |
| Notable work | |
| Awards | |
| Children |
His Highness Litunga Lewanika II (born Godwin Mbikusita Lewanika; reigned 1968–1977) was the traditional ruler of Barotseland who presided over the kingdom during Zambia’s post-independence consolidation period and the final annulment of the Barotseland Agreement 1964. He was the fourth son of Litunga Lewanika I (Lubosi) to ascend the throne, succeeding his elder brother, Sir Mwanawina Lewanika III, in 1968.
Early life
Lewanika II was born as Godwin Mbikusita Lewanika, a prince of the Lozi royal family and one of the sons of Litunga Lewanika I. He was educated and politically active, distinguishing himself as an early nationalist and intellectual leader in Northern Rhodesia (now Zambia).
Political career
Before ascending to the throne, Godwin Mbikusita Lewanika was a leading figure in Northern Rhodesian politics. He founded the Northern Rhodesia Congress (NRC) in 1948, the first nationalist political party in the territory. He served as its first president, advocating for African political participation and eventual independence.
His political career evolved over time; he later joined the United Federal Party (UFP) and served as a Member of Parliament, demonstrating a pragmatic shift from militant nationalism to legislative engagement within the colonial framework.
Reign as Litunga (1968–1977)
Lewanika II was proclaimed Litunga on 13 November 1968, followng the death of his brother, Sir Mwanawina Lewanika III. His reign coincided with a critical phase in Zambia’s early independence years, particularly concerning the status of Barotseland.
Political developments
During his tenure, the Zambian government—under President Kenneth Kaunda—sought to consolidate national unity and eliminate regional autonomies. In 1969, the Constitutional (Amendment) Act was passed, formally abrogating the Barotseland Agreement of 1964, which had guaranteed Barotseland a semi-autonomous status within Zambia.
This legal change dissolved Barotseland’s special administrative and political status, effectively integrating it into the central governance system of the Republic of Zambia. The event marked a turning point in the relationship between the Barotse Royal Establishment and the Zambian government.
Literary and academic contributions
Aside from his political and traditional leadership, Lewanika II was also a writer and linguist. His published works included:
- A Visit to England (1946)
- English–Lozi Phrase Book
- English–Bemba Phrase Book
These writings reflected his scholarly interest in language, culture, and the interaction between Western and African societies.
Death
Lewanika II died in 1977 while serving as Litunga. He was succeeded by Litunga Ilute Yeta IV. His reign remains remembered as a period of cultural preservation amid the erosion of Barotseland’s political autonomy.
Legacy
Lewanika II is remembered as both a nationalist and a monarch who navigated the difficult intersection between traditional leadership and modern statehood. Though his reign marked the loss of Barotseland’s official autonomy, his political and literary contributions cemented his place among Zambia’s early nationalist figures and respected royal statesmen.
See also
- Barotseland
- Barotseland Agreement 1964
- Lewanika I (Litunga)
- Sir Mwanawina Lewanika III
- Kenneth Kaunda
References
- Caplan, G. L. (1970). Barotseland: The Secessionist Challenge in Zambia. Praeger.
- Mutumba Bull, L. (1972). The Kingdom of Barotseland: A Historical Overview. Lusaka: Institute for African Studies.
- Roberts, A. D. (1976). A History of Zambia. Heinemann.
- Cammack, D. (1981). Barotseland under Lewanika. Lusaka: Zambian Historical Review.
- Mbikusita-Lewanika, A. (1998). Barotseland: The Past and Present. Mongu: Barotse Cultural Archives.
