Uganda Muslim Supreme Council 1972, old Kampala, Kampala (2026)

27/05/2026

Muslims Mark Eid al-Adha Worldwide

His Eminence Dr. Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, the M***i of Uganda, led thousands of Muslim faithful from all walks of life in marking Eid al-Adha, the Feast of Sacrifice, which commemorates the great act of devotion and humility by Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him) when he was tested through a true dream in which he was commanded by Almighty Allah to offer his elder son, Prophet Ismail, as a sacrifice. Both father and son submitted in full obedience to the will of God before Allah replaced the sacrifice with a ram. The national prayers was at the National Mosque at Old Kampala, Wedbesday May 27th 2026.

The event coincides with millions of Muslim pilgrims performing the annual Hajj pilgrimage at the holy sites in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. In his Eid sermon, M***i Mubaje urged Muslims to strengthen their devotion in worship and to emulate the virtues of Prophet Ibrahim and his family, including obedience, humility, and love.
He explained that Allah replaced the intended sacrifice with an animal, making it a tradition for believers who have the means to slaughter animals and distribute the meat among family members, the less privileged, and needy communities.
The M***i also expressed gratitude to individuals and non-profit charities, particularly from countries such as Türkiye and Saudi Arabia, for annually facilitating the slaughter of hundreds of thousands of animals that are distributed to beneficiaries regardless of faith or affiliation. “I also implore Ugandan Muslims to adopt a new mindset and begin rearing their own animals so that they can also offer sacrifices and attain divine rewards, just as donors do,” he advised.

He further echoed concerns previously raised by Hon. Hajjat Minsa Kabanda, Minister of Kampala Metropolitan Affairs, and Hon. Hadji Abbas Muluubya Ssekyanzi, UMSC Secretary General, regarding challenges in the management of Hajj affairs in Uganda. These challenges, he said, have for long affected intending pilgrims who make full payments but are unable to travel.
The M***i accused some private Hajj companies of commercializing the pilgrimage, thereby undermining its spiritual essence. He noted that UMSC is working to reassert proper oversight to ensure the Hajj is managed with care and satisfaction for all stakeholders.
He also acknowledged some improvements in the sector, including reduced costs compared to previously exorbitant charges, and pledged continued engagement with the Government of Uganda for further improvements.

At the same time, the M***i expressed concern over the handling of the Presidential Hajj sponsorship offer, where President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni reportedly pledged to sponsor 150 Muslim pilgrims for 2026. He stated that UMSC was instructed to select 65 pilgrims nationwide, but ultimately only 17 managed to travel.
He expressed gratitude to the President for appointing Muslims to high-level positions in government, while also appealing for increased representation. He urged Muslim leaders in government to serve diligently while safeguarding the interests of the Muslim community.

The M***i also commended the Government and people of Pakistan for their mediating role in the ongoing regional tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.
Meanwhile, Dr. Sheikh Hafiz Muhammad Harunah Bukenya, the 2nd Deputy M***i, served as the main preacher for the day.

The celebrations were attended by high-profile dignitaries, including diplomats and UMSC leaders at various levels.

Haji Zziwa Ashiraf
UMSC Spokesperson

27/05/2026

Muslim Pilgrims Reach Peak of Hajj

More than one thousand Ugandans were among the millions of Muslim pilgrims who successfully reached the climax of the Hajj pilgrimage at the plains of Mount Arafat, officially marking the fulfillment of the fifth pillar of Islam.
The pilgrims retraced the footsteps of the great prophets — Prophet Ibrahim, his elder son Prophet Ismail, and their descendant Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon them all).
Media reports from Saudi Arabia indicate that male pilgrims, dressed in their ceremonial white garments (*Ihram*), and female pilgrims in modest attire, spent the entire day in devotion, repentance, and personal supplication, offering special prayers for themselves and their loved ones. “Oh Lord, here I am at Your service and I have answered Your call. All glory and thanks belong to You. There is no deity worthy of worship except You,” the pilgrims repeatedly chanted as they moved from one holy site to another.

The Day of Arafat is regarded as the most significant day of Hajj and symbolizes humility, unity, and total submission to Almighty Allah.

Haji Zziwa Ashiraf
UMSC Spokesperson

25/05/2026

‎UMSC Hajj Office Clarifies on State House-Sponsored Pilgrims 2026
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‎The Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) Department of Hajj and Umrah has issued further clarification regarding an earlier story circulated on various media platforms on Monday, May 25, 2026, concerning pilgrims sponsored by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni who are currently participating in the Hajj rituals and stationed at the Mina Tent City in Saudi Arabia.
‎‎According to the office, UMSC successfully selected 65 Muslim pilgrims from different Muslim regions across the country, as directed by State House officials, with the understanding that government would release the required funds after UMSC had secured visas for the intending pilgrims.
‎‎The department explained that UMSC took the responsibility of borrowing funds to facilitate the pilgrims in advance. The funds were used to cater for travel fares, accommodation, and internal transportation during the pilgrimage within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This was done to ensure that all required procedures for visa issuance and online lodging were completed before the official deadlines.
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‎However, the concerned government officials later refunded funds covering travel fares for only 17 pilgrims out of the 22 who eventually secured visas and travelled for Hajj.
‎‎The statement further clarified that none of the 22 pilgrims has so far received the pocket money that was reportedly part of the Presidential Hajj sponsorship package.
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‎The affected pilgrims have therefore appealed to President Museveni to intervene and come to their rescue.
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‎Haji Zziwa Ashiraf
‎UMSC Spokesperson
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25/05/2026

Muslim Pilgrims Reach Peak of Hajj as State House Pilgrims Cry Foul

Ugandan Muslims are among the millions of pilgrims from across the world who have successfully arrived in the holy city of Makkah and the surrounding sacred sites to participate in the Hajj rituals — the fifth pillar of Islam, performed once in the lifetime of every capable Muslim.
Media reports indicate that the majority of Ugandan pilgrims are in good health despite experiencing minor illnesses caused by weather changes and body fatigue. However, they remain in high spiritual spirits and they have arrived in the Tent City of Mina before heading to the plains of Arafat on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, for the special day-long standing in devotion, which marks the climax of Hajj.

On a sad note, reports further indicate that out of the 65 Muslim pilgrims selected by the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) from the ten regions of the country to travel under the annual Presidential Hajj offer pledged by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, only 22 reportedly managed to secure visas.

Worse still, only 17 among those who travelled are said to have been paid for the travel fares without the pocket money, which forms part of the presidential offer.

The affected pilgrims are reportedly distressed and uncertain about how they will survive in the coming days without the financial support that was expected from the relevant government officials, who have allegedly declined to respond to inquiries regarding the matter.

On its part, the UMSC Department of Hajj and Umrah stated that it had made several follow-ups regarding the issue but had not received any response or explanation from the concerned government authorities.

Reports further allege that the same officials were seen distributing envelopes containing pocket money and other accessories to pilgrims travelling through private Hajj companies before departure for the holy journey.

Haji Zziwa Ashiraf
UMSC Spokesperson

25/05/2026

2nd Deputy M***i Hails Turkish Nationals for Initiating Rural Welfare Programmes

His Eminence Dr. Sheikh Hafiz Muhammad Harunah Bukenya, the 2nd Deputy M***i of Uganda, on behalf of His Eminence Dr. Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, the M***i of Uganda, has commended Turkish Muslim brothers living in Switzerland under their non-profit charity, Time To Help, in partnership with the Nile Humanity Development Agency, for implementing a unique welfare programme aimed at uplifting rural communities, particularly persons living with disabilities, with special focus on the deaf in Kayunga Muslim District.
Dr. Sheikh Bukenya made the remarks during two separate events where the visiting delegation from Time To Help, led by Brother Musa Sari, handed over 200 food packages containing rice, sugar, maize flour, and macaroni, as well as 12 bicycles and 22 goats to beneficiaries at Busana Muslim Primary School sports grounds on Sunday, May 24, 2026.
Addressing the recipients, Sheikh Bukenya urged them to remain God-conscious, thankful to Allah, and appreciative of the Muslim brothers from Switzerland for demonstrating compassion and generosity towards others. “You should emulate such values and also share with the rest of your family members,” the Deputy M***i advised.

Thereafter, the Deputy M***i and the visiting delegation proceeded to Kyerima, where they received a warm welcome at a colourful wedding ceremony for several deaf couples. The weddings were fully sponsored by the Time To Help charity organisation. The 1st couple were,Groom; Nasser Jalita and Bride; Nassiwe Nusura. while 2nd Couple were, Groom: Abdu- Karim Mugabi and Bride: Latifa Nantongo

The couples received various gifts, including mattresses, food items, bicycles, clothes for themselves and their parents, as well as meals and drinks served to guests during the celebrations.
The mammoth gathering, which included parents and relatives from both sides, listened to speeches from various leaders, including Sheikh Umar Gugumiza, the host Kadhi of Kayunga Muslim District. Through a sign language interpreter, he urged the newly married couples to remain God-conscious and to love and support one another in order to build lasting marriages.

Meanwhile, the sponsors pledged to continue implementing similar programmes in the future. The event was crowned by remarks from Sheikh Bukenya, who advised the newlywed couples to remain close to each other and work hard to raise upright children whenever Allah blesses them with families.
He concluded by expressing his personal gratitude to the sponsors for their generosity and continued support towards vulnerable communities.

Several leaders from Kayunga Muslim District and other invited guests attended the events.

Haji Zziwa Ashiraf
UMSC Spokesperson

24/05/2026

M***i Commissions New Mosque, Presides Over Passout of Islamic Theological Students

His Eminence Dr. Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, the M***i of Uganda, has commissioned a newly constructed mosque and presided over the first Haflah—the pass-out ceremony of 86 students who successfully completed primary level and Idaadi (O-Level) Islamic theological studies. The programme is offered under a dual curriculum by ABUSHA Junior Schools and Bombo Muslim Secondary School, founded by Rt. Major Haji Abubakar Kalume, on over 20 acres of land in Bajjo, along Kalangala Road in Bombo Town Council, Luwero District.
The colourful function was held on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at the expansive education centre, which comprises nursery, primary, and secondary sections.
On arrival, the M***i and his entourage received a warm welcome from smartly dressed learners and their teachers from the nursery, primary, and secondary sections, who lined up along the main road leading to the schools. He was later taken on a guided tour of the entire educational complex by the host before the commencement of the main celebrations, which were attended by several dignitaries.

Those present included Hon. Counsel Haji Muhammad Ali Aluma, Deputy Secretary General in charge of Finance and Administration; Sheikh Juma Bakhit Cucu, Education Secretary; Sheikh Imran Ssali, Secretary for Religious Affairs; Sheikh Mustafa Khamis Lule, Regional Assistant to the M***i in charge of East Buganda (Luwero); Sheikh Uthuman Shaban Ngoobi, Country Director of Al-Bayan Charitable Foundation; Hon. Sheikh Bruhan Byekwaso, General Assembly representative for Luuka Muslim District; donor Sadiq Muharwe, Regional Secretary Sheikh Ramadhan Twaha Mulindwa, the host Kadhi of Luwero; Mr. Nsereko Arafat, the new Mayor of Bombo Town Council; as well as Kadhis from neighbouring Muslim districts, county sheikhs, imams, among others.

Guests were entertained with melodious recitations of the Holy Qur’an, chanted poems, and praise songs in honour of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
They also listened to remarks and speeches from various leaders. The host, Haji Abubakar Kalume, expressed profound gratitude to the M***i for honouring their invitation, recalling his earlier visit ten years ago when he officially opened the school, then at nursery and primary levels.

“I am here to report to you, Your Eminence, that the prayers you supplicated for us ten years ago were answered by Almighty Allah and He blessed us. We are so grateful that we have managed to make tremendous strides by establishing a secondary section, fully initiating the inclusion of Islamic theological studies to enable our learners acquire both secular and theological education. Today we are proud to pass out the first batch of 86 learners who successfully completed primary and O-Level Islamic theology. One of them is Hon. Habib Mustafa, the UMSC National Chairperson of the Muslim Youth Council, who decided to return to pursue Islamic studies after completing university education. The school also offers agriculture, livestock, and animal husbandry practices,” he said.

He further revealed plans to establish a full university in the future, noting that they still have sufficient land within the area.

Meanwhile, Sheikh Ramadhan Twaha Mulindwa Nsanja, the Kadhi of Luwero, informed the M***i that Muslims in the district are generally united and actively implementing religious activities, despite challenges of limited funding. He also raised concerns about misunderstandings and lack of cooperation from some non-profit charities, particularly those involved in animal sacrifice during Eid al-Adha.

“We always face hostilities and arrogance from these individuals whenever we request them to network with us. We therefore call for mutual understanding and respect for proper coordination of activities,” he remarked.

Sheikh Mustafa Khamis Lule also presented the state of affairs in the East Buganda Muslim region.

Sheikh Uthuman Shaban Ngoobi and Sheikh Bruhan Byekwaso, representing donors, commended the host for his trustworthiness and continued cooperation. They also appreciated government support and international sponsors for facilitating the completion of major projects, including the newly constructed mosque.
“We thank Allah, the Government of Uganda, UMSC and sponsors from abroad for enabling us to construct these magnificent projects, including the new large mosque to be commissioned shortly,” they stated.

In his address, the M***i expressed gratitude to the host as the vision bearer, and to sponsors for initiating transformative development programmes that have turned Bombo into an educational hub. He also acknowledged Ugandan partners who mobilised funds for development, particularly Al-Bayan Charitable Organization, Ibn Baaz Foundation, and Good Hope Foundation, all based in Busoga.

He commended the school administration for maintaining high standards of management and thanked parents for their support. Addressing learners, he urged them to remain respectful to both parents and teachers in order to succeed in their academic journey.

Finally, the M***i responded to a written appeal by Sheikh Tandiya, the Bombo County Sheikh, regarding Bombo’s recent listing among newly created Muslim districts by UMSC structures. He explained that due to logistical constraints, implementation of the new districts would be done in phases.

In conclusion, he urged all Ugandans to adhere to Ministry of Health guidelines in order to curb the Ebola epidemic that has claimed lives in the country. Before, departure the M***i conducted a brief reversion exercise of two women to Islam. He gave a Muslim name of Hadija to one while her sister chose herself a new name Aliah.

Haji Zziwa Ashiraf
UMSC Spokesperson

23/05/2026

Sheikh Imran Ssali Urges Sacrifice, Unity and Forgiveness Ahead of Eid Adhuha.

Muslims have been urged to embrace sacrifice, unity and forgiveness as they prepare for Eid Adhuha celebrations scheduled for Wednesday, May 27, 2026, with prayers expected to be conducted under strict public health guidelines following the Ebola outbreak in neighbouring DRC.
Delivering the main sermon at the Gaddafi National Mosque on friday may 22nd 2026, Sheikh Imran Abdnoor Ssali, who also serves as the Secretary for Religious Affairs at the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC), emphasized that sacrifice remains one of the most significant acts of worship in Islam.
Quoting the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), Sheikh Ssali said: “No deed performed by the son of Adam on the Day of Sacrifice is more beloved to Allah than shedding blood of the sacrifice.”
He reminded worshippers that the essence of Eid sacrifice is rooted in obedience to Allah and the legacy of Prophet Ibrahim.
“The sacrifice is from the Sunnah- traditions of Prophet Muhammad and also the tradition of Prophet Ibrahim,” he said, noting that what matters most is not the meat or blood, but sincerity and piety.
“It is not the meat or the blood that reaches Allah, but the piety and sincerity,” he quoted the Holy Quranic verse, urging Muslims to ensure that Eid rituals are carried out with devotion and humility.
Sheikh Ssali also called on Muslims to use the Eid period to strengthen social bonds through sharing, generosity and kindness.
“It is recommended to eat from the sacrifice, give some in charity and share some with others,” he said.
He further appealed for reconciliation and unity among believers, stressing that Eid should be a moment of cleansing hearts and restoring broken relationships.
“One of the greatest wishes on Eid is the purification of hearts between brothers, neighbours and relatives,” he noted.
Describing Eid as a time of joy and remembrance of Allah, Sheikh Ssali encouraged Muslims to celebrate in lawful ways while maintaining spiritual discipline.
“These are days of eating, drinking and remembering Allah,” he said, adding that families should be generous and welcoming during the festivities.
Meanwhile, the Secretary General of UMSC, Haji Abas Muluubya Ssekyanzi, has called on Muslims to turn up early for Eid prayers and adhere to the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) issued by government as a precaution against the Ebola outbreak linked to the Democratic Republic of Congo.
He announced that Eid prayers will begin at 9:00am and conclude by 9:30am to allow worshippers to return home in time for celebrations.
The early scheduling, he said, is part of efforts to ensure safety while maintaining the sanctity of the Eid prayers.
Eid Adhuha, one of the most significant Islamic festivals, commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son, Prophet Ismael in obedience to Allah before a ram was provided as a substitute.

Haj Zziwa Ashiraf
UMSC Spokesperson.

22/05/2026

UMSC Rolls Out Digital Platform as SG Announces Shift in Muslim Affairs Management

The Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) has announced a major transition toward digitizing Muslim affairs in the country, unveiling a new online platform aimed at improving service delivery, coordination, and access to information for the Muslim community.
The announcement was made by the UMSC Secretary General, Hon.Hadji Abas Muluubya Ssekyanzi, shortly after observing Friday- Juma congregational prayers at the National Mosque at Old Kampala, May 22nd 2026. He revealed that the Council is rolling out a centralized digital system to streamline operations across the country.
The platform, developed under the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council, is expected to consolidate services and improve communication between the council, mosques, and the wider Muslim faithful. It will be accessible through www.umsc360.com, a dedicated phone line (0200 606421), and a USSD code (*248*21 #) for users without smartphones.
Hon.Ssekyanzi said the move is part of efforts to modernize religious administration in Uganda, ensuring that services are more efficient and accessible.
Beyond digital transformation, the Secretary General also urged the public to observe health precautions- Standards Operating Procedures ( SOPs), during the Eid season, citing an Ebola outbreak in the neighboring country of Congo. He emphasized handwashing, use of sanitizers, and avoiding contact with suspected cases as part of preventive measures to ensure safe celebrations.
He further confirmed that Eid al-Adha- feast of sacrifice Holiday preparations within Uganda and the observance of Arafah in Makkah will proceed under strict guidelines issued by the Council.
The announcement marks one of the most significant administrative shifts within UMSC in recent years, positioning the institution toward a more technology-driven approach to religious coordination and service delivery.

Present at the prayers was His Eminence Dr. Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje the M***i of Uganda along with other UMSC departmental heads among others

Haj Zziwa Ashiraf
UMSC Spokesperson.

20/05/2026

Egyptian Government Guarantees Scholarship Offers to Ugandans

The Extraordinary & Plenipotentiary Ambassador of the Arab Republic of Egypt, H.E. Monzer Selim, has assured Ugandans that his country remains committed to strengthening the long-standing bilateral cooperation between Egypt and Uganda, especially in the field of education.
Ambassador Monzer Selim made the assurance while meeting Sheikh Juma Bakhit Cucu, the Education Secretary of the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC), during a courtesy visit to the Egyptian Embassy in Kampala on Wednesday afternoon, May 20, 2026.

Sheikh Cucu had gone to follow up on the issue of scholarships and mosque Imams’ refresher training programmes rolled out by the Egypt-based Al-Azhar Al-Sharif, the most prestigious and renowned university in the Muslim world, headquartered in Cairo.
Sheikh Cucu expressed profound appreciation on behalf of His Eminence Dr. Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, the M***i of Uganda, and the entire Muslim fraternity for the long-standing generosity extended by the Egyptian government towards Ugandan Muslims through the training of many Islamic theologians who have greatly contributed to satisfying the spiritual needs of the Muslim community.

Sheikh Cucu informed the Ambassador that UMSC last received scholarship offers in 2019. He added that the Council recently received an official communication from the Egyptian Ministry of Higher Education through the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs regarding another batch of scholarship opportunities encouraging Ugandan Muslim students to apply for the 2025/2026 academic year.

“UMSC went ahead to announce these educational opportunities, and many of our students promptly applied. However, we are yet to receive feedback, and the applicants are anxiously waiting to hear from the sponsors,” Sheikh Cucu said.

Additionally, Sheikh Cucu reminded the Ambassador about the Imams’ refresher course for which UMSC had earlier submitted a list of selected Imams, but the Council is still awaiting feedback.

In his welcoming remarks, Ambassador Monzer Selim reiterated that the Egyptian government is fully committed to deepening cooperation between the two brotherly countries in all fields of development, especially education. He revealed that the scholarship opportunities had officially resumed recently and would continue to be available to Ugandans.

He further noted that Imams’ refresher training is important in equipping religious leaders with appropriate and moderate communication skills while delivering religious knowledge and values within their respective communities. He described the programme as an effective channel for curbing religious extremism emerging in some Muslim communities.

The Egyptian envoy pledged to follow up with the relevant Egyptian authorities regarding the issues raised during the meeting.

Both sides agreed to maintain further engagements in the near future.

Also in attendance was H.E. Elsayed Abu Okail, the Deputy Head of Mission at the Egyptian Embassy.

Haj Zziwa Ashiraf
UMSC Spokesperson

16/05/2026

UMSC Electoral Commission Clarifies Nebbi Kadhi Selection Process

Hon. Were Abubakar Wadangho, the Chairperson of the UMSC Electoral Commission, has dismissed what he described as malicious rumours circulated by some former Nebbi Muslim District leaders alleging that he was bribed to drop certain candidates during the nomination process for the position of Kadhi following the resignation of Sheikh Abdu-Karim Ongei.
Hon. Wadangho made the clarification shortly before the swearing-in ceremony of Sheikh Isa Akugizibwe as the new Kadhi of Nebbi Muslim District. Addressing the congregation at the Main Mosque in Nebbi Town on Friday evening, Hon. Wadangho explained the events surrounding the nomination exercise that was conducted at the same mosque in mid-2025.

“For members who participated in the exercise, you recall that we clearly explained how the process would be conducted according to the UMSC Constitution,” he stated.

“The electorate raised six possible names for consideration. Out of the six, only two candidates proceeded to the next stage involving scrutiny of the required qualifications and subsequent oral and written interviews.”

He explained that Sheikh Isa Akugizibwe was the only candidate who successfully submitted the required Islamic theological certificates and excelled in both the oral and written interviews. Hon. Wadangho further noted that the other contender did not complete the required interview process and later began mobilising a section of followers against UMSC administration.

He therefore urged Muslims in Nebbi to remain united and avoid actions that create divisions within the Muslim community.
Thereafter, Hon. Wadangho and Counsel Hadad Salim led Sheikh Isa Akugizibwe in taking the Oaths of Office, officially ushering him into his duties as the new Kadhi of Nebbi Muslim District.
Sheikh Akugizibwe also received instruments of authority from Sheikh Imran Abdunoor Ssali, the UMSC Secretary for Religious Affairs, who represented His Eminence Dr. Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, the M***i of Uganda, as the chief guest. The instruments included the appointment letter, the UMSC Constitution, the Holy Quran, and the official robes of the Kadhi.

Several dignitaries addressed the gathering, including Sheikh Mubarak Ocaya, a member of Majlis Al-Ulama representing West Nile, and Sheikh Mahdie Mahmood Raihan, the West Nile Regional Assistant to the M***i. Both leaders implored Muslims to strengthen unity and work for the betterment of Nebbi Muslim District.

Meanwhile, Mr. Alex Onengiu, the Mayor of Nebbi Town, donated a piece of land intended for the construction of a school aimed at promoting education within the Muslim community. In his remarks, Sheikh Isa Akugizibwe, speaking in the local Alul language, outlined unity, education, health, and development projects as the key priorities of his administration.
Sheikh Imran Ssali reiterated the message of unity and cooperation that he had delivered in other newly created Muslim districts across West Nile. He also thanked the outgoing Kadhi, Sheikh Abdu-Karim Ongei, for the services he rendered to the Muslim community during his tenure.

The event was also attended by visiting Sheikhs from the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Haj Zziwa Ashiraf
UMSC Spokesperson

16/05/2026

Zombo Muslim District Gets First Kadhi as Sheikh Imran Ssali Concludes West Nile Tour

Sheikh Imran Abdunoor Ssali, the UMSC Secretary for Religious Affairs, has concluded his five-day official working visit to the West Nile Muslim Region, during which he represented His Eminence Dr. Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, the M***i of Uganda, in officiating at the installation ceremonies of Kadhis for five newly created Muslim districts.
The tour climaxed with a colourful event held on Friday evening, May 15, 2026, at the Main Mosque in Nebbi Town Council along the Arua–Gulu Highway.

Earlier in the day, Sheikh Ssali presided over the installation of Sheikh Abdu-Azizz Kassimu Amin as the first Kadhi of the newly created Zombo Muslim District, near the Uganda–Democratic Republic of Congo border.
Zombo Muslim District was curved from Nebbi Muslim District, which for decades had remained geographically distant, making it difficult for many Muslims in the area to effectively access religious leadership, developmental programmes, and services.

The well-attended function attracted several dignitaries, including Prince Upar Angala Jalsonge, the Prime Minister of Alur Chiefdom, who represented King Ularker Raune Philip III; Maj. Gen. Dick Olum of the UPDF; Sheikh Mahdie Mahmood Raihan, the West Nile Regional Assistant to the M***i; Sheikh Abu Jafar Shaban Karala, the Kadhi of Arua Muslim District; and Rev. Mademoga William, Parish Priest of Warr-Alia Parish, who represented the Christian fraternity, among others.
At noon, Sheikh Abdu-Azizz Kassimu Amin, flanked by his wife, children, and close family members, took the Oath of Office administered by Hon. Were Abubakar Wadangho, the National Chairperson of the UMSC Electoral Commission, assisted by Counsel Hadad Salim, the Regional Commissioner. Thereafter Sheikh Abdu- Azizz received the instruments of authority that included; the Holy Qu'ran, UMSC Constitution, Policy documents and was helped to don the official Green robes of the Kadhi.

Several leaders later delivered speeches at the function. Sheikh Abu Jafar Shaban Karala praised Sheikh Abdu-Azizz as a focused and hardworking leader during the period he served as Deputy Kadhi in Arua Muslim District.
Sheikh Mahdie Mahmood Raihan urged Muslims in Zombo to put aside past misunderstandings that existed during the time they were still under Nebbi Muslim District and instead focus on building and developing their new district.

Both Sheikh Mahdie and Sheikh Karala paid glowing tribute to Maj. Gen. Dick Olum, describing him as a key pillar in the establishment of Zombo Muslim District. They noted that despite being a Christian, he single-handedly facilitated many of the processes leading to the successful creation of the district and the installation ceremony.

Maj. Gen. Dick Olum and Rev. Mademoga William both pledged to work closely with the new Muslim leadership for the development of the area. Meanwhile, Prince Upar Angala Jalsonge captivated the congregation with inspiring remarks reflecting on the golden era when Islam flourished in Warr in Zombo during his childhood in the early 1950s.
“It was a great centre of Islamic learning and trade in the entire West Nile region before those activities later shifted to Arua,” he noted.
He recalled that people of all faiths used to attend massive Maulid celebrations graced by prominent Sheikhs from Uganda and beyond, which attracted many converts to Islam.

“It is unfortunate that Muslims of this era are becoming unmindful about spreading Islam and instead resort to sowing discord and causing disunity among believers,” he observed. He urged the new Muslim leadership in Zombo to prioritise unity and education and pledged scholarships for learners pursuing secular courses.
The congregation burst into laughter when the Prince jokingly directed a senior police officer present to arrest self-styled Muslim leaders carrying fake titles that cause confusion within the Muslim community.
In his remarks, Sheikh Abdu-Azizz Kassimu Amin pledged to work closely with all Muslims and development partners to ensure the growth and progress of Zombo Muslim District.

The event was crowned by the M***i’s written speech, delivered on his behalf by Sheikh Imran Ssali, in which the M***i implored Muslims in Zombo to strengthen unity and draw up meaningful developmental programmes.

Haj Zziwa Ashiraf
UMSC Spokesperson

Uganda Muslim Supreme Council 1972

27/05/2026

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