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Mbale & Bulambuli, Uganda|December 28, 2025
Hundreds of Bamasaba traditional surgeons (bakhebi) on Sunday converged at two separate venues in Mbale City and Bulambuli District in a powerful demonstration of unity, peace, and commitment to safeguarding Bamasaba cultural heritage as preparations intensify for the 2026 cultural year.
One group of over 400 surgeons assembled at the palace of His Highness the Umukuuka of Inzu Ya Masaba in Mbale, while another delegation gathered at the residence of Hon. Mayeku in Bulambuli, who hosted them on behalf of Inzu Ya Masaba and His Highness Umukuuka IV, Kuuka Joram Mayatsa Khamboson.
The joint mobilization was led by Mr. Magidu Mudebo, Chairman of the Bamasaba Traditional Surgeons and Minister of Culture and Surgeons in Inzu Ya Masaba. Addressing the gatherings, Mr. Mudebo made a strong appeal for peace, unity, and cultural responsibility, warning that attempts by a small group of individuals to destabilize the cultural institution and unity of the Bamasaba people would not succeed.
“The peace, unity, and culture of the Bamasaba cannot be hijacked by a few self-seeking individuals. Our culture belongs to all of us and must be protected collectively,” Mr. Mudebo emphasized.
Mr. Mudebo placed particular emphasis on health and safety standards during circumcision ceremonies, urging all traditional surgeons to strictly observe the principle of “one knife, one person” to prevent the spread of infections and diseases.
He further announced that surgeons have been officially authorized to conduct circumcisions on January 1, targeting boys and men who previously defaulted but are now willing, as well as individuals constrained by travel or other urgent commitments. Circumcisions on that day will be conducted from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., after which the next general circumcision season will resume in August 2026, except in emergency cases.
Inzu Ya Masaba Reaffirms Lawful Leadership
The delegation was accompanied by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Inzu Ya Masaba, Hon. John Bosco Mweru Wabakhwana, who reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to legal, constitutional, and peaceful processes in ensuring leadership continuity and order.
Reflecting on past transitions, Hon. Wabakhwana noted that previous Umukuukas completed their terms and handed over power peacefully. He expressed concern over recent confusion surrounding leadership, warning that the Bamasaba community especially the youth will not tolerate disorder and are prepared to defend their cultural institution through lawful means.
Umukuuka Calls for Unity and Cultural Defense
Addressing the gathering at the Mbale palace, His Highness Umukuuka IV, Kuuka Jorum Mayatsa Khamboson, emphasized the central role of culture in shaping identity and community life.
“Culture is life. When culture is attacked, it must be defended responsibly, peacefully, and together,” the Umukuuka stated.
He underscored the importance of inclusive leadership, unity among all Bamasaba, peaceful dialogue, youth involvement, and respect for cultural values. His Highness also reaffirmed his commitment to constitutional leadership, stating that upon completing his five-year term, he will peacefully hand over power in accordance with the traditions of Inzu Ya Masaba.
Quoting the late Nelson Mandela, the Umukuuka reminded the gathering that “culture is the soul of a people, and without it, a nation loses its identity.”
The twin gatherings sent a strong and clear message of unity, discipline, and resolve, reaffirming the commitment of the bakhebi and the leadership of Inzu Ya Masaba to peace, public health, lawful leadership, and the continuity of Bamasaba culture as the community prepares for the 2026 cultural year.
by Our Reporter
