Imbalu Festival in High Gear as Bobi Wine and NUP Leaders Contribute

By John Kusolo

Mbale, Uganda –

Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, the president of the National Unity Platform (NUP), along with the party's Deputy President for the Eastern Region, Mr. John Baptist Nambeshe, and other national leaders, have contributed to the Imbalu (circumcision) festival set to take place on August 3rd, 2024.

During their visit to Mbale city, the NUP delegation met with Inzu Ya Masaba cultural officials, including Umukuuka, Uwelukoosi Jude Mike Mudoma, and contributed Sh5 million towards the festival, which will be held at the Mutoto cultural heritage site.

In an interview with the Bugisu Intellectual Forum, Mr. Steven Masiga, spokesperson for Inzu ya Masaba, expressed appreciation for the contribution. "This morning, we welcomed the NUP president along with the MP for Manjiya County in Bududa district, John Nambeshe, who greeted our Umukuuka and contributed Sh5 million towards our upcoming function in Mutoto."

Masiga emphasized the inclusive nature of the cultural institution, saying, "As a cultural institution, we are open and welcome everyone, irrespective of religion, tribe, or political party. We therefore call upon everyone, including other political parties like the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), Democratic Party (DP), Conservative Party (CP), or any individual, to contribute as well. This is a cultural institution that serves everyone."

However, he also highlighted concerns within the Bamasaba community regarding the need for internal contributions before seeking external support. "This money from Bobi Wine raises questions among us Bamasaba about why we must first contribute towards this activity and wait for others from outside," he added.

Additionally, Masiga revealed that President Museveni is expected to contribute over Sh400 million towards the event, underscoring the significant support from various leaders. "We call upon all Bamasaba to come and celebrate our cultural heritage," he said, assuring that all preparations are in place to ensure the success of the event.

The Imbalu festival, a significant cultural event among the Bamasaba people, is anticipated to draw large crowds and foster unity and celebration of cultural heritage. With contributions from political leaders and the community, the event promises to be a grand celebration.

This initiative by Bobi Wine and the NUP leaders marks a notable engagement with the cultural fabric of Uganda, highlighting the intersection of politics and cultural traditions in fostering national unity and heritage preservation.