On April 30, 2026, Umukuka III, the king of the Bamasaba (also known as Bagisu) in Uganda, arrived in Kenya for a three-day visit aimed at strengthening cultural ties between the Bamasaba community in Uganda and the Luhya community in Kenya, particularly the Bukusu sub-group, who share ancestral origins.
The visit included meetings with local leaders in Bungoma County, where the king emphasized the importance of preserving shared traditions, such as the Imbalu circumcision ceremony, which is practiced by both communities. He called for enhanced cross-border cooperation in cultural exchange and economic development.
Kenyan officials welcomed the king, noting that the visit underscores the deep historical and linguistic connections between the Bamasaba and the Bukusu. The discussions also touched on joint efforts to promote tourism and trade along the Uganda-Kenya border.
This visit is part of ongoing efforts to formalize cultural diplomacy between the two countries, with plans for a bilateral cultural festival later in 2026.
