Mbale, (UG):- The official launch of the Imbalu celebration, scheduled for August 3rd, is just days away. People from various corners of Masabaland and beyond are gearing up for this much-anticipated cultural event. As our people prepare to celebrate their culture, I want to use this platform to share some important tips and guidelines for the Imbalu season.
Imbalu is a historical, cultural, and customary event, and we draw heavily from our ancestors’ traditions. We should celebrate Imbalu as though we are living in the early 18th century, with the respect and modesty it deserved back then. Modernity has increasingly overshadowed Imbalu, and we encourage our sisters and mothers to avoid provocative dancing during the launch, as it may attract unwelcome attention from male participants.
Historically, during Imbalu celebrations, girls and women used locally improvised banana leaves tied around their waists to cover their inner clothing and prevent others from seeing their contours. Unfortunately, many young girls now dress in overly revealing outfits, which can attract inappropriate attention from male predators. As a cultural institution, we advocate for wearing traditional attire or some form of antiquated dress code to avoid lustful gazes.
Provocative dancing and dressing have contributed to high road accidents, as drivers may become distracted. Reports from previous Imbalu celebrations in Bulambuli and Budaka indicate that such conduct partly led to accidents. We remind everyone that all Ugandan laws will be enforced during this year’s Imbalu celebrations. Celebrating Imbalu does not grant immunity from committing crimes, and there are severe penalties for offenses according to Uganda’s criminal statutes, such as the Penal Code.
Defilement, whether during or after the circumcision celebration, is a crime. Defilement includes molesting or having sex with a girl below the age of 18, regardless of her consent. Consent from a minor does not serve as a defense. Similarly, having sex with an adult female celebrant without her permission, or obtaining permission through deceit or threats, including lacing drinks with alcohol, is both culturally and legally unacceptable and will result in heavy punishment.
There is no immunity for Imbalu celebrants to commit crimes during the season. In Uganda, only the President enjoys total immunity from criminal or civil breaches. We urge our people not to engage in theft, defilement, or the consumption of prohibited substances.
We have discussed these issues on various radio stations and media platforms with police leadership, including SP Rogers Taitika. We were alarmed by reports of people using narcotics and challenge our people to reject such behavior. Do not use narcotics and then attend Imbalu.
We also condemn the carrying of sharpened pangas and spears, which are more dangerous than guns due to their silent nature. There is adequate law enforcement, and any threats to your safety should be reported to official agencies. This is a cultural ceremony, not a conflict zone, and we should not intimidate visitors with sharp objects.
Theft, including stealing sugarcanes, matooke, or turkeys, is discouraged and punishable by law. Previous reports of maize theft in Mutoto during Imbalu celebrations should not be repeated. Theft is a criminal act that could result in up to seven years in prison.
The Uganda Police Force, under the Elgon police command, has set up an ad hoc police post with a holding cell in Mutoto cultural grounds. We urge early Imbalu celebrants to avoid behavior that might make them unwelcome guests at the police post.
Regarding VIP and VVIP designations, it is important to note that presidents, kings, and ministers use officially designated entrances. We have observed that some Imbalu celebrants mistakenly try to use VVIP entrances meant for high-profile guests.
We also denounce the use of vulgar songs that insult women during Imbalu. Many entertainers have composed offensive songs that undermine the dignity of women. We recommend that experienced elders lead the entertainment to maintain cultural modesty.
We encourage our mothers and sisters to celebrate in groups to protect each other from unwanted advances. By celebrating our culture with respect, we will attract more followers. This is a cultural ceremony, not a military zone, so there is no need for pangas, hoes, or spears.
Do not molest young girls; any such act will be witnessed by many and result in legal action. Let us celebrate Imbalu with dignity and respect for our cultural values.
Avoid splashing alcohol on road users. I recall with sadness an incident where a Muslim was splashed with alcohol while unknowingly passing through the Imbalu celebrants. Culture is about modesty, not hooliganism.
Mr. Steven Masiga is the Spokesperson for the Bamasaba Cultural Institution. 0782231577
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