With the countdown to the 2026 Imbalu season gathering momentum, the Bugisu Parliamentary Caucus has demonstrated remarkable commitment to preserving the cultural identity of the Bamasaba by contributing Shs25 million towards preparations for the official launch of the revered circumcision ceremony.
The financial support was handed over on Thursday at Mountain Inn Hotel in Mbale City ahead of the grand launch slated for August 1 at the historic Mutoto Cultural Grounds, the spiritual home of Imbalu.
The contribution was presented by the Caucus Treasurer and Bulambuli District Woman MP, Hon. Sarah Wekomba, on behalf of the Caucus Chairperson and Butiru County MP, Hon. Godfrey Wakooli Matembu.
In a message delivered through Hon. Wekomba, Wakooli reaffirmed the caucus’ dedication to promoting peace, unity, cultural heritage and socio-economic transformation throughout the Bugisu sub-region. He urged all stakeholders to ensure that this year’s Imbalu season becomes a shining example of discipline, responsibility and cultural pride.
“We appeal to every participant, every circumcision candidate, every family and every visitor to conduct themselves peacefully, responsibly and with dignity. Let us market Bugisu as a peaceful, hospitable and disciplined community,” Wakooli said.
He further called upon traditional surgeons to uphold professionalism, patience and safety while carrying out circumcision rituals, emphasizing the need to protect lives and maintain the integrity of the cultural practice.
Bulambuli County MP Hon. Emmanuel Biara Wepukhulu emphasized that traditional surgeons and circumcision candidates remain the backbone of Imbalu and deserve greater attention and support. He urged organizers to address concerns affecting the surgeons, especially following recent road accidents involving some of them.
Namisindwa County MP Hon. Metrine Musufwa Nazala called on the Bamasaba people to remain united during the cultural season and urged organizers to ensure transparency and accountability in the management of funds meant for the event.
Receiving the contribution, the Chairperson of the Imbalu Launch Organizing Committee and Manafwa District LCV Chairperson, Mr. Hosea Kimono Kigayi, expressed gratitude to the Bugisu Parliamentary Caucus, noting that the support would significantly strengthen preparations for the launch.
Mbale Industrial City Division Mayor Abdallah Madoi also called for increased recognition and welfare support for traditional surgeons and circumcision candidates, describing them as the pillars upon which the success of Imbalu is built.
Meanwhile, Sironko District LCV Chairperson and Treasurer of the Organizing Committee, Alex Guga Nabende, revealed that the committee continues to face a budget shortfall that has slowed some preparations. He appealed to Members of Parliament to engage President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for additional support, stressing that any contribution should be channeled directly through the organizing committee to ensure accountability and proper utilization.
In a demonstration of compassion and solidarity, Hon. Emmanuel Biara led fellow leaders to Mbale Regional Referral Hospital immediately after the handover ceremony to visit traditional surgeons who were recently involved in a fatal road accident. The team assessed their condition and assured them of continued support as they recover
