Uganda's Muslim Community Celebrates Eid al-Adha with Calls for Unity and Charity

Muslims throughout Uganda have observed the significant occasion of Eid al-Adha, marked by communal prayers and a strong emphasis on unity, peace, and spiritual renewal.

In Tororo District, Khadi Sheikh Nasur Koire urged the Muslim community to reject disunity and embrace a revitalization of their moral compass, stressing the importance of forgiveness and constructive dialogue. He highlighted that compassion and togetherness are the true sources of strength, with support for vulnerable neighbors being crucial for social cohesion and mitigating tensions.

Charitable giving was a notable aspect of the celebrations. Uthman`s Dream Incorporated, an Islamic charity based in the diaspora, generously donated 40 cows to the Islamic community at Uthman Mosque in Kitgum District. Imam Hassan Batali acknowledged the timely support and encouraged further contributions to aid the less fortunate.

A large congregation gathered at Gaddafi National Mosque, where the Mufti of Uganda, Sheikh Shaban Mubajje, led prayers. He encouraged Muslims to actively participate in governance affairs. However, the Mufti also voiced concerns regarding the perceived underrepresentation of Muslims in the newly announced Cabinet appointments by President Yoweri Museveni, noting the scarcity of Muslim names on the list.

Sheikh Mubajje urged newly appointed Muslim leaders to prioritize unity within the Muslim fraternity and to champion inclusive implementation of government programs. Meanwhile, in Ntagamo and Rukiga Districts, Muslims celebrated without the traditional animal slaughter due to a quarantine imposed because of a Foot and Mouth Disease outbreak, impacting animal movement and sales. The Ntungamo District Khadi, Sheikh Swales Kahangirwe, pointed to the high cost of veterinary supplies as a barrier to animal vaccination and disease control, appealing to the government for support for affected farmers whose livelihoods are at stake.

Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/ugandans-mark-idd-ul-adhuha—5475530