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Mbale City, December 18, 2025 — The Umukuuka IV of the Bamasaaba, His Royal Highness Mayatsa Joram Khamboson, has officially declared January 1, 2026, as a designated circumcision day for Bamasaaba defaulters, scheduled to take place from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
The declaration was made during a press conference held at the Inzu ya Masaaba Cultural Office in Mbale City. The event forms part of the Bamasaaba cultural traditions aimed at guiding boys through the rite of passage into adulthood through circumcision.
Addressing the media, the Umukuuka IV emphasized the cultural importance of the exercise, noting that Bamasaaba customs have, since time immemorial, provided for a one-day circumcision festival in even years specifically meant for defaulters. He further explained that January 1 was chosen deliberately to symbolize a new beginning, both culturally and in the calendar year.
The Umukuuka called upon all traditional circumcision surgeons to make adequate preparations and to ensure proper documentation of the total number of boys circumcised on the day. He assured the public that circumcision certificates will be issued to all participants. In collaboration with the Uganda AIDS Commission, the cultural institution will enforce a “one knife, one circumcision” policy to promote safety, hygiene, and health standards during the exercise.
Clan leaders, cultural delegates, and local leadership have been urged to mobilize and support the event within their respective jurisdictions. In addition, the institution announced other agreed dates for future circumcision ceremonies, including August 1, 2026, which will not interfere with school programs, and December 1, 2026, specifically reserved for students.
All relevant government agencies, security organs, civil society organizations, and stakeholders are hereby informed and requested to support the successful and orderly implementation of this important cultural activity.
Inzu ya Masaaba, the official Bamasaaba cultural institution established in 2010, continues to uphold and promote cultural heritage, in line with the practices of past cultural leaders.
For further information, the public is encouraged to contact Inzu ya Masaaba Cultural Institution or the Office of the Umukuuka IV.
Inzu ya Masaaba Cultural Institution
Preserving Culture, Identity, and Heritage
By, REAGAN NABUTELE
