His Imperial Majesty King Dr. Suanu Timothy Yormaadam Baridam of the Ogoni Traditional Area in Nigeria has arrived in the country to grace the Imbalu festival slated for Saturday, August 3, 2024, at the Mutoto grounds in Mbale district.

King Yormaadam landed in the country on August 1, 2024, with His Majesty King Amenya Fitiv, President of the Forum of Kings, Sultans, and Traditional Leaders of Africa, and Paramount Chief of AFLAO, Ghana.

Addressing the media at Entebbe International Airport, King Amenya Fitiv said there is a need to respect and preserve traditional African culture, which is why they are in Uganda to attend the festival.

The Bamasaba Prime Minister, Charles Walimbwa Peke, stated that the arrival of the two kings is the beginning of a partnership in traditional investment, which presents a great opportunity for the Bamasaba and people from Western Africa.

The Imbalu festival is held yearly to showcase the vibrant culture and rich traditions of the Bamasaba people as they celebrate the Imbalu (circumcision). This year’s festival will run from August 2nd–4th, 2024.

Mbale Ag Resident City Commissioner (RCC) Asumin Nasike assured attendees and Ugandans at large of the high security deployed at Mutoto Cultural Grounds.