ENGLISH NAMES OF SOME LOCAL ZAMBIAN FOOD AND DISHES

Zambia is a country blessed with a rich food culture, ranging from traditional dishes to unique wild fruits found only in certain regions. While these foods are well-loved locally, many people often wonder what they are called in English—especially students, travellers, bloggers, and anyone learning about Zambian cuisine. This guide provides clear and accurate English names for popular Zambian foods and fruits, along with short explanations of how they are eaten and enjoyed across the country.

1. Mphonda — Gourd

Mphonda is known as a gourd in English. It is usually eaten cooked, and some people enjoy it mixed with sugar. It is most common during the cold season and belongs to the calabash family.

2. Chikanda — African Polony

Chikanda, originally created by the Bemba people, is called African Polony in English. It is often sold on the streets and commonly eaten with chilli sauce or soup.

3. Masau — Jujube Fruit

Masau is known as the jujube fruit. It can be eaten fresh or dried and is seasonally sold in many Zambian markets.

4. Kawawasha — Tamarind

Kawawasha refers to the tamarind fruit. In Zambia, it is soaked in water to make a refreshing drink, and it is sometimes used for traditional medicinal purposes.

5. Chitunguza — Horned Melon

Chitunguza (or vitunguza in plural) is called horned melon. This juicy fruit is usually peeled, cut into pieces, and mixed with a bit of salt.

6. Impwa — White Aubergine / White Eggplant

Impwa is known as white aubergine or white eggplant. While some people dislike its bitter taste, others enjoy it deeply and consider it an important part of their meals.

7. Msiniga — Java Plum

Msiniga is called the Java plum in English. It is a seasonal fruit enjoyed in many rural areas..

8. Matako 4 — Cross Berry

Matako four (4) is known as a cross berry. Its local name likely comes from its distinctive shape that resembles human buttocks.

9. Mabuyu — Baobab

Mabuyu refers to the baobab fruit. It is eaten raw, soaked in water to make a drink, or coated with coloured sugar for a sweet snack.

10. Masuku — Loquat Fruit

Masuku is called the loquat fruit in English. It is known for its sweet, juicy taste.

11. Vizimbili — Monkey Fruit

Vizimbili (or chizimbili) is known as monkey fruit. Some people believe it has mild intoxicating effects when consumed in large amounts.

12. Inswa — Flying Termites

Inswa are flying termites, which appear shortly after the first rains. Although some find them unappealing, many Zambians enjoy them as a seasonal delicacy.

13. Delele — Okra

Delele is called okra in English. It is highly nutritious and widely eaten in Zambia, though it is sometimes associated with poverty by those who prefer other dishes.

Zambia’s food culture is diverse, flavorful, and full of history. Knowing the English names of these local foods makes it easier for students, travellers, and content creators to describe Zambian cuisine accurately. If there is any local food or fruit you want to know the English name of, feel free to ask in the comments below!