The Nsembu mask was used exclusively by members of the Nkunda Secret Society for the purposes of adult initiation and divination; the mask representing the diviners spirit.

The chequered pattern may represent the interaction of opposites - day and night, man and woman, good and evil - within ones spiritual journey. It is also reminiscent of certain scarification practices.

The Kusu people inhabit the Ituri rainforests, located in the northeastern part of the Congo.