Namisindwa, (UG):- The aspiring Woman MP for Namisindwa District, Hon. Khalayi Peace on Friday joined the people of Tsekululu to celebrate the vibrant Ineemba Festival; an iconic cultural event that unites over 20 clans from various sub-counties in the Bugisu district.
The Ineemba celebration, a cornerstone of the Bamasaba tradition, marks the initiation of newly circumcised boys into manhood. During the festival, thousands from across the country gather for this grand occasion, camping for days to partake in the rich cultural experience.
Beyond its significance in cultural preservation, the Inemba Festival also drives local economic growth by boosting businesses in the region.
While addressing hundreds of attendees at the festival, Hon. Khalayi underscored the importance of safeguarding cultural heritage, urging the community to uphold their traditions rather than succumb to foreign influences. “I am honoured to be part of this momentous occasion that celebrates our identity and traditions,” she stated.
“As we move forward, let’s remain steadfast in preserving our culture while fostering unity, peace, and mutual respect. If entrusted with leadership in 2026, I will ensure that our cultural heritage, economic development, and community empowerment remain a priority.”
Hon Khalayi emphasized values of respect, peace, and pride in showcasing the Bamasaba culture to the world.
Her presence at the Inemba festival not only demonstrated her deep connection to the people but also reinforced her vision for a culturally strong and economically thriving Namisindwa as she continues her journey toward the 2026 elections.
About the Ineemba Festival
The Ineemba festival revolves around the beating of two drums, a long one suspended horizontally, fastened on poles and another small one held between two poles.
Mesusera Makumba, a Bukigai Sub-county cultural committee member, says: Ineemba is the name of the long drum from which the dance is derived.
During the festival, the boys dance around Ineemba in the company of their parents in slow, swaying motion as they sing: Kumuli kwa mwoko kulikisa. Kwasuta Kitutu Mumakuma. Kwamushisa lumwâ Bumatanda (A root of cassava hiccups as it carries Kitutu from Bumakuma and tosses him over the cliff to Bumatanda).
This means that the boys are now men, ready to marry. When Ineemba is sounded, the initiates storm the centre strapped in goat skins, carrying chimitati (sticks decorated with colourful patterns) and dance round the drummers in a circle before stabbing the sticks in the ground.
The sticks are acquired during the process of healing.
There are stringent rules governing the often drunken participants at the dance: The sticks are not supposed to fall down, explains James Waneroba, the cultural committee treasurer. Failure to keep the stick in your hand or in the ground is a sign of incapability.
If a stick falls, there is a penalty of a goat and a bunch of matooke. The skin strapped around the stick should also not touch the ground. The penalty for that is also a goat and a bunch of matooke.
Send us your story or opinion on: dailyexpressug@gmail.com. You can also follow Daily Express on WhatsApp for all the latest news and updates.
