Bungoma County will host this year’s Imbalu Festival from August 11 to 15 at the Sang’alo Cultural Centre, with thousands of participants, tourists and cultural enthusiasts from Kenya, Uganda and other parts of East Africa expected to attend.
The festival will be highlighted by the attendance of Jude Mike Mudoma, the supreme traditional leader (Omukuka) of the Bamasaaba community in Uganda.
Mudoma is expected to lead a delegation from Uganda to the festivities and officially declare the 2026 circumcision season on August 15.
Organisers say his presence will reinforce cultural ties between the Bamasaaba of Uganda and the Bukusu community of Kenya, who share ancestry and the centuries-old Imbalu rite of passage.
The five-day event, which precedes the Bukusu circumcision season, will feature traditional music and dance, cultural processions, storytelling, sporting activities, exhibitions by local artisans, displays of regalia, indigenous cuisine, exhibitions and forums on the significance of Imbalu. Seminars on heritage conservation aimed at promoting cultural tourism are also scheduled.
Senior government representatives from Kenya and Uganda, cultural leaders, researchers, artists and members of both the Bukusu and Bamasaaba communities are expected to grace the festival.
The climax will be at Masinde Muliro Kanduyi Stadium, where initiates will take part in colourful performances dances (popularly referred to as ‘Khuminya’).
Bungoma Director of Culture Moses Chebonya said logistical, security and emergency response measures are in place.
“We are fully prepared to host the Imbalu Festival 2026 and are working closely with all stakeholders to ensure a successful celebration of our cultural heritage,” Chebonya said.
He added that the county is working with cultural institutions, community leaders, security agencies and development partners to make the event a success.
He also cited support from stakeholders, including Uganda’s Mama TV, in promoting and documenting the festival.
Bukusu Council of Elders Chairman Richard Walukano said the community is awaiting the Ugandan delegation.
“We are honoured to welcome the Omukuka and his delegation. His presence will strengthen the cultural bond between the Bamasaaba and Bukusu communities,” Walukano said.
County Executive Committee Member for Gender, Culture, Youth and Sports Dr. David Wamamili described the festival as key to identity and unity.
“The Imbalu Festival is more than a cultural celebration; it is a symbol of our identity, heritage and unity. We are committed to preserving our traditions while positioning Bungoma as a destination for cultural tourism and cross-border exchange,” Wamamili said.
County Executive for Education Eng. Agnes Wachiye said the event offers young people a chance to learn their cultural identity.
For the Bukusu, Imbalu marks a boy’s transition to manhood.
Beyond circumcision, initiates receive instruction on responsibility, discipline, leadership and respect.
The rite includes blessings by elders, community processions and family celebrations.
Held every even year, the festival has become one of western Kenya’s major cultural events, creating business for hotels, transport operators, traders and artisans.
This year’s edition is expected to further strengthen cross-border cooperation between Kenya and Uganda.
By Chris Mahandara
