Residents have raised alarms over the potential for a cholera outbreak and other sanitation-related diseases at the Mutoto cultural site due to the lack of adequate pit latrines. With the population swelling in anticipation of next month’s circumcision launch, the risk has become more imminent.
Located along the Mbale-Tororo road in Mbale Industrial City Division, Mutoto is the cultural site for the Bamasaba people’s public circumcision ceremony, known as Imbalu. This significant cultural event, a major tourist attraction, draws large crowds every year. Despite its importance and the influx of attendees since 1984, when the farewell blessing for candidates was moved from Maluku to Mutoto, the site lacks permanent latrine facilities.
Saudat Nabugwere, a restaurant owner at the site, expressed frustration that the organizers have focused on leasing plots to business operators for Shs 300,000-500,000 instead of constructing necessary latrines. Nabugwere criticized the organizers for prioritizing financial gains over basic sanitary needs, leading to human waste being scattered around the site.
Emmanuel Kibeti, a local brew seller, echoed these concerns, noting that the only three temporary pit latrines are insufficient for the large population, forcing people to pay Shs 500 whenever nature calls.
Zaid Wandulu, the area councillor, emphasized the urgent need for at least twenty permanent latrines at the cultural site as the launch date approaches. Mbale city health director Moses Mugonya stated that his team conducted an inspection two weeks ago and urged Inzu Yamasaba, the cultural institution, to construct toilets. He assured that his team would revisit the site to assess the situation and provide an updated report to the media.
However, Stephen Masiga, spokesperson for the Masaba cultural institution, dismissed the allegations of inadequate latrines, claiming that such statements were made by individuals from rival camps aiming to sabotage the event.
As preparations for the Imbalu ceremony intensify, the community’s health concerns remain pressing, highlighting the need for immediate action to ensure the safety and well-being of all attendees.
