Umukuka sparks debate with introduction of virginity certificates for school girls

Mbale, Uganda: His Highness Jude Mike Mudoma, Umukuka III of the Bamasaaba people, is considering introducing ‘Virginity Certificates’ as part of a wider cultural drive to promote morality, discipline, and cultural values among girls in Masaabaland.

The grand announcement, which has since sparked public debate, was made by Mr. Steven Masiga, the spokesperson for the Bamasaaba cultural institution, during a visit to Nakaloke Secondary School in Mbale City, where he engaged students on the importance of cultural values, education, and personal discipline.

Masiga said the proposal aims to encourage young girls to maintain moral integrity throughout their education journey and uphold the values of Bamasaaba culture.

“The institution is considering issuing virginity certificates to girls who protect their chastity up to university level as a way of celebrating and encouraging moral discipline,” he revealed.

Masiga challenged parents, especially in some Muslim families within the region, to rethink early marriages, which deny girls a chance to complete their education.

“Even if religion allows it, marrying off young girls, some as young as 10, is outdated. Girls deserve the opportunity to complete their education and pursue their dreams,” he said.

During his interaction with learners, Masiga discouraged them from engaging in criminality, drug abuse, gang violence, and other vices, emphasizing that Bamasaaba culture advocates for discipline, respect, and responsibility.

He also warned parents who fail to provide scholastic materials for their children, noting that the law is clear on parental responsibilities under Sections 200 and 201 of the Penal Code.

Nakaloke SSS Headmistress, Madam Nankya Masitula, welcomed the cultural institution’s initiative to promote moral values and discipline in schools. “Such cultural engagements are crucial in shaping the future of our learners,” she said.

In a bold move to support the moral campaign, Madam Nankya pledged UGX 1 million to any girl from Nakaloke SSS who keeps her virginity until marriage.

Students at the school also petitioned the Bamasaaba cultural institution to establish an ‘Ekisati’ mentorship platform, similar to the Ekisakaate of the Buganda Kingdom, to nurture and guide children across Masaabaland.

Masiga told the student community that Umukuka Jude Mike Mudoma will soon host a ‘National Youth Talk’ for learners across Masaabaland, with Nakaloke SSS expected to host the inaugural engagement.