Bugisu Parliamentary Caucus Chairperson Appeals to President Museveni for Greater Recognition of Bamasaaba Community

MBALE, Uganda – The Chairperson of the Bugisu Parliamentary Caucus and Butiru County Member of Parliament, Hon. Wakooli Godfrey Matembu, has written an open letter to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, urging the Government to accord the Bamasaaba community greater recognition and timely support, particularly during important cultural events such as the annual Imbalu circumcision celebrations.

In the letter, Hon. Wakooli says his appeal is made "with respect, loyalty and hope," emphasizing that it is not intended as criticism of the Government but as a sincere request for greater inclusion of the Bamasaaba in Uganda's national development and cultural agenda.

He reaffirms the community's support for President Museveni and his administration while expressing concern that Bugisu often feels overlooked whenever matters of cultural significance arise.

Appeal for Equal Recognition

According to Hon. Wakooli, many people in Bugisu have increasingly questioned whether their region enjoys the same level of recognition and government support as other parts of the country.

He argues that official participation, facilitation and logistical support for major events in the region often arrive late or remain uncertain, leaving members of the community feeling marginalized.

Drawing on African proverbs to reinforce his message, the legislator notes that national unity is strengthened when every community feels valued and included.

"The Bamasaba say, 'One finger cannot kill a louse,'" he writes, arguing that Uganda's strength depends on all communities working together. He also cites another African proverb, "When spider webs unite, they can tie up a lion," to emphasize the importance of collective national effort.

Don't Judge a Community by Individuals

Hon. Wakooli acknowledges that, like every community, Bugisu has had individuals whose actions may have disappointed the Government.

However, he cautions against allowing the conduct of a few individuals to define an entire community.

Quoting another African proverb—"When one branch dries, the whole tree is not dead"—he argues that the patriotism, loyalty and aspirations of the Bamasaaba should not be overshadowed by the mistakes of a small number of people.

He maintains that the wider community remains committed to national development and deserves equal treatment within Uganda's national family.

Focus on the 2026 Imbalu Celebrations

A significant portion of the letter focuses on the forthcoming Imbalu circumcision celebrations, which officially commence on the first Saturday of August 2026 at the Mutoto Cultural Grounds in Mbale City.

Hon. Wakooli describes Imbalu as more than a regional cultural ceremony, saying it is a national heritage event that promotes Uganda's cultural identity, tourism and social cohesion.

Despite its national significance, he says uncertainty remains within the community regarding the extent of Government support for this year's celebrations.

Calls for Transparency Over Government Funding

The legislator also raises concerns regarding reports of financial support allegedly released through the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development for the Imbalu celebrations.

According to Hon. Wakooli, members of the community have received information suggesting that the Permanent Secretary reportedly released the funds to an individual who is not part of the officially mandated organizing committee.

He says this has raised questions within the community because, according to resolutions reached by the Minister responsible, cultural leaders and elders, the independent Imbalu organizing committee was entrusted with coordinating all preparations, including the management of financial resources.

Hon. Wakooli does not dispute the Government's willingness to support the celebrations but instead appeals for transparency, accountability and proper coordination to ensure that any public funds reach the officially recognized organizers and are utilized for the intended purpose.

Call for Inclusion and National Unity

The MP concludes his letter by appealing to President Museveni to ensure that Bugisu feels fully included within Uganda's national family.

He asks the Government to continue recognizing and supporting the Bamasaaba's cultural institutions and heritage, arguing that such gestures strengthen national unity and demonstrate appreciation for the community's contribution to the country.

According to Hon. Wakooli, every Ugandan community deserves equal recognition regardless of regional differences, and no part of the country should feel neglected.

He expresses confidence in President Museveni's long-standing commitment to national cohesion and says he remains hopeful that the concerns raised will receive due consideration.

The open letter comes just days before the official launch of the 2026 Imbalu cultural season, an event expected to attract thousands of participants and visitors from across Uganda and beyond, with President Museveni expected to officiate as the Guest of Honour.