By TROY MUKUPA
LUSAKA, ZAMBIA – After six years of being together, Matthew Chikwanda, a renowned film producer, director, and actor, popularly known as Mattwise or Masuzyu, finally took a significant step towards marriage with Cecilia Kwempa, having their traditional pre-marriage ceremony, Chilanga Mulilo, in Chunga, Matero Constituency on Saturday, June 7, 2025.
The much-anticipated traditional event brought together prominent figures from Zambia’s entertainment industry and philanthropic community, turning it into a star-studded ceremony. Notable attendees included renowned Zambian music act Roberto, award-winning comedian Cosmas Ngandwe, Bana Fyasasa, Binwel Jere, Acacia Mulenga, and Raymond Banda, as well as comedians Dabwiso and Lottie Siame Tondolo, actress Ruth Banja, Soja Boy, and humanitarian Dr. Fabian Mumba.
The ceremony, aimed at unifying the two families, featured traditional foods and drinks prepared by the bride’s family. In an exclusive interview, Mattwise shared insights about the event, saying, “Interestingly, the Chilanga Mulilo deviated slightly from the usual tradition, as my father, a bishop, opted out of the traditional drumming.”
Mattwise also clarified a viral video featuring Cosmas Ngandwe pouring white powder on Roberto, stating, “I’d like to clarify that the viral video of Cosmas pouring white powder on Roberto was indeed from my event, contrary to rumors suggesting it was at a funeral.”
Expressing gratitude, Mattwise thanked those who made the event possible, saying, “Firstly, I thank God for everything. Without Him, this wouldn’t have happened. I’d also like to extend my appreciation to Youth Action Zambia (YAZ) for shaping my leadership skills, New Generation Media for the photos, Purple Media for the video coverage, and everyone who supported me leading up to and on the day of the event.” He added, “To my family, your love and support mean the world to me. And to my wife, Cecilia, heaven is witness to how special you are to me. I love you.”
Renowned philanthropist Dr. Fabian Mumba congratulated the couple, wishing them a lifetime of love and happiness. Citing 1 Corinthians 13:4-5, Dr. Mumba advised the couple to nurture their love with patience, kindness, and understanding, saying, “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.”