Chokwe, Zambia
The Makishi mask festival is conducted by communities in North Western and Western Provinces of Zambia. The festival is conducted after the young men return from isolation during their initiation. The young men are then assigned specific masks that remain with them throughout the process. Each mask has a specific meaning but the most significant mask is the Makishi, which represents an ancestor who travels back to the land of the living to assist the boys. The masquerade is attended by all members of the community to welcome the new young men into the society.
