BODY ORNAMENTATION AND DANCING OF IMBALU CIRCUMCSION RITUALS PERFORMED BY THE BAGISU PEOPLE IN BUDUDA DISTRICT

Abstract

The researcher presents the introductory part of the study, background of the study, research problem, scope of the study, objectives, research questions, significance of the study, and the purpose. The researcher also reviews some related literature in relation to the objectives and questions of the study made basing on the research. The study was made to analyze the body ornamentation and dancing of imbalu circumcision rituals performed by the Bagisu of Eastern Uganda. This was based on the following objectives in relation to the study topic; • to analyze the body ornamentation and dancing of imbalu circumcision rituals performed by the Bagisu of Eastern Uganda. • to examine the origin and transformation of circumcision and the Bagisu in Uganda. • to analyse body ornamentations and body decorations that are used during the dancing process of imbalu rituals. The researcher used qualitative data collection method which included observation, focus group discussions, interviewing different people according to their classes like initiates, traditional surgeons, teachers and others in mostly Bududa district and the neighboring areas. The researcher found out that at least 95% of the Bagisu in Bududa district practice traditional male circumcision and the use of body ornamentations and decorations has not changed so much like in other parts of Bugisu. In conclusion, since body ornamentation and decorations and the dancing of imbalu circumcision rituals have not changed much in Bududa and Mbale districts, the researcher believes that they are the most districts whose imbalu rituals have not been so much influenced like other Gishu regions and this will help in the smooth passing of cultural traits from old generations to young generations.