MBALE CITY – The Government of Uganda has entrusted the Council of Bugisu District Chairpersons with the responsibility of steering and presiding over the historic 2026 Imbalu Circumcision Ceremony slated for 1st August, in a major step aimed at promoting unity, peace and successful celebrations among the Bamasaba community.
The resolution was announced during a high-level stakeholders’ consultative meeting held in Mbale City, which was graced by the Minister of Gender, Labour and Social Development, Gen. Henry Tumukunde Kakurugu, as the Guest of Honour.
The meeting brought together government officials, local government leaders, cultural representatives and key stakeholders to address concerns surrounding the organization of Imbalu 2026 and to establish a clear framework that guarantees a peaceful and memorable ceremony.
Government representatives assured stakeholders that the interventions agreed upon were intended to eliminate any possibility of conflict and create an environment where all Bamasaba can celebrate their culture with pride and dignity.
“This is why we have come in to cure this possibility of people fighting. I can assure you there will be no fighting following the steps taken today,” a government representative said.
A key outcome of the meeting was the confirmation that the Council of Chairpersons from Bugisu districts will take the lead in organizing the celebrations. The LCV Chairperson of Manafwa District has been appointed Chairperson of the Imbalu Organizing Committee and will preside over the official celebrations on 1st August 2026.
The arrangement is expected to provide strong leadership, coordination and unity among Bugisu districts as the region prepares for one of its biggest cultural events.
The meeting also discussed the outstanding concerns regarding the tenure and status of UMUGUGA, with government confirming that the matter will be handled through a court-sanctioned mediation process. The mediation is scheduled to begin on 21st July 2026 and is expected to last two days.
Government has also requested the Judiciary to ensure speedy handling of all cases related to Bugisu cultural matters to enable a peaceful environment ahead of the Imbalu celebrations.
To strengthen security arrangements, the government announced that the security apparatus in the Elgon region will be reinforced with independent security and intelligence teams from security headquarters. The additional teams will work together with local security agencies to guarantee safety before, during and after the ceremony.
The Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development further revealed plans to support radio sensitization programmes aimed at educating the public about the resolutions reached, the role of the organizing committee and the need for peaceful participation in the cultural event.
In a major relief to the community, government clarified that there will be no fundraising for the Imbalu launch, as the Government of Uganda will meet the entire cost of organizing the ceremony.
Officials warned against unauthorized fundraising drives, emphasizing that the official structures established will handle all preparations.
Meanwhile, leaders of the three competing groups involved in cultural disagreements have been advised to attend the celebrations only in their individual capacities as Bamasaba who respect and subscribe to their culture. They will be accorded equal status with all other attendees and will not receive any special recognition or official roles.
Although they have been encouraged to consider staying away in the interest of maintaining tranquility, the decision on whether to attend remains entirely theirs.
The meeting concluded with a renewed call for unity, peace and cultural responsibility, with leaders emphasizing that Imbalu is a heritage belonging to all Bamasaba and must remain a symbol of identity, discipline and togetherness.
“With Bugisu district chairpersons leading the way, government support strengthened, and peace at the centre of preparations, Imbalu 2026 is set to become a historic celebration of Bamasaba culture, unity and pride.”