Bugisu Parliamentary Caucus Chairman Wakooli Godfrey Matembu has appealed to President Yoweri Museveni to ensure the Bamasaba community receives equitable government recognition and timely support for this year's Imbalu cultural ceremony, saying the region increasingly feels overlooked on matters of national importance.
In an open letter to the President ahead of the 2026 Imbalu circumcision season, Wakooli said the appeal was made in a spirit of respect and loyalty to the Government but reflected growing concern among the people of Bugisu.
"Our appeal is not born out of anger but out of concern that our community often feels overlooked when matters of great cultural importance arise," Matembu wrote.
The annual Imbalu ceremonies, which begin on the first Saturday of August, are among Uganda's most celebrated cultural events and attract thousands of participants and visitors from within and outside the country.
Wakooli said uncertainty remained over the level of government support for this year's celebrations, arguing that delayed or inconsistent assistance had left many Bamasaba questioning whether Bugisu receives the same attention accorded to other regions.
"We respectfully wonder why important occasions in Bugisu often struggle to receive timely government attention. Whether it is official participation, facilitation or support, assistance frequently arrives late or remains uncertain," he noted.
The MP also cautioned against judging the entire community based on the actions of a few individuals.
"The mistakes of a few should never become the burden of an entire community. The actions of a few sons and daughters should not define the loyalty, patriotism and aspirations of the entire Bamasaba community," he said.
Matembu further raised concerns over reports that government funds released through the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development for the Imbalu celebrations were allegedly given to an individual who is not part of the officially recognised organising committee.
He said leaders, cultural elders and the Gender minister had previously agreed that the independent Imbalu organising committee would coordinate the preparations and manage any government funding.
"We respectfully appeal for transparency and coordination so that any Government support reaches the officially mandated organising structures and serves its intended purpose for the benefit of the entire community," he wrote.
Matembu described Imbalu as a national cultural heritage that promotes unity, tourism and Uganda's cultural identity, and urged the President to ensure Bugisu's cultural institutions receive the recognition and support they deserve.
"Our request is simple: let Bugisu feel that it belongs. Let our people know that their loyalty and contribution to Uganda are appreciated," he said.
The letter concludes by expressing confidence in President Museveni's commitment to national unity and equal treatment of all communities.
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