The Government of Uganda, through the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, has released UGX50 million to facilitate preparations for the 2026 Imbalu Cultural Festival, set to be officially launched onSaturday, August 1, at the Mutoto Cultural Centre in Mbale City.
The annual ceremony, which marks the beginning of the traditional male circumcision season among the Bamasaaba, is expected to draw thousands of people from Uganda and neighbouring Kenya, including cultural enthusiasts, political leaders, diplomats, religious leaders, and international guests.
Speaking ahead of the ceremony, the spokesperson of the Bamasaaba Cultural Institution, Steven Masiga, said the government funding has been allocated to both infrastructure improvements at the Mutoto Cultural Site and the organization of the cultural festivities.
“We received 50 million shillings through the Ministry of Gender. Of this, 27 million has been spent on the Mutoto Cultural Site alone,” Masiga said.
He explained that 4 million shillings was allocated for water supply, 5 million for electricity installation, 2 million for the ceremonial bull, and16 million was distributed to chairpersons organizing the event.
Masiga said the remaining UGX23 million will facilitate the main cultural ceremony, including the coronation activities as recognized by the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development.
He also dismissed reports that some individuals were demanding money from members of the public seeking to attend the celebrations. He reiterated that entry and exit to the cultural grounds will be free and urged the public to report anyone attempting to extort money from attendees-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
