Imbalu ceremony commences at Bumuttoto cultural site in Mbale City

The highlight of the event is the traditional surgery where candidates undergo circumcision to remove the foreskin from the male organ.

The Gishu public circumcision ceremony, Imbalu, has been inaugurated at the Bumuttoto cultural site in Mbale City.

The event attracted multitudes, including locals, government representatives, and dignitaries from across the world.

Among the attendees are kings and cultural leaders from within Uganda and various parts of Africa.

The highlight of the event is the traditional surgery where candidates undergo circumcision to remove the foreskin from the male organ.

A unique and defining feature of this ceremony is that the candidates do not receive anesthesia and must be circumcised in an open courtyard, demonstrating bravery.

This tradition is a significant rite of passage to manhood and a test of bravery for the young men participating.

Adding to the international flavour of the event, a delegation of leaders from Kenya is present.

This delegation includes three members of parliament, Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka, his deputy governor, and the speakers of Bungoma County.

Bungoma is part of the Bamasaba tribe divided by colonial boundaries but united by culture.

Their participation underscores the cultural ties and mutual respect between the neighboring countries.

The event was presided over by Umukuka III Jude Mike Mudoma.

The Minister of State for Regional Affairs, Mr John Mulimba, represented the government.

The inauguration ceremony marks official launch of the circumcision calendar stretching to December.

Imbalu ritual ceremony is conducted every even year.

The Imbalu ceremony, deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of the region, continues to draw attention and respect from both local and international observers.

It serves not only as a rite of passage but also as a celebration of cultural identity and communal solidarity.

As the ceremony progresses, the atmosphere at Bumuttoto is filled with traditional songs, dances, and the palpable sense of pride among the participants and spectators alike.

This year's event promises to be a memorable chapter in the storied tradition of Imbalu, honouring the courage and cultural heritage of those who partake in this revered rite of passage.

From todays events, the different clans will conduct massive circumcision in intervals, according to the set calendar.