Celebrating 50 Years of the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council: A Call for Unity and Progress

Friday, December 13, 2024

The Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) marked its 50th anniversary on December 12, 2024, at Old Kampala Secondary School. This Golden Jubilee celebration brought together government officials, religious leaders, dignitaries, and thousands of Muslim faithful. The event highlighted the accomplishments of the Muslim community over the past five decades, focusing on unity, development, and gratitude.

A Message of Gratitude and Unity

His Eminence Dr. Sheikh Shaban Ramadan Mubaje, the Mufti of Uganda, delivered a keynote address underscoring the importance of being grateful for Allah’s blessings. He reminded the audience that gratitude is a fundamental principle of faith and denying blessings is akin to disbelief.

Reflecting on the history of Islam in Uganda, Dr. Mubaje traced its roots back to the 1880s. However, he noted that significant unity among Muslims only emerged in the 1970s, particularly with President Idi Amin’s leadership. He acknowledged Amin’s contribution, including the donation of land for constructing the Old Kampala Mosque, which served as a cornerstone for the community’s religious cohesion.

The Mufti also expressed appreciation for President Yoweri Museveni’s ongoing support for the Muslim community. He recalled how President Museveni facilitated a crucial letter to the late Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi, resulting in Libya’s assistance in completing the iconic mosque.

“The structure we see today is the result of efforts by three leaders: the late President Idi Amin, the late Muammar Gaddafi, and President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni,” Mufti Mubaje said, expressing gratitude for their contributions.

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He highlighted the Muslim community’s growth and self-sufficiency under President Museveni’s leadership. “We don’t beg for salaries; we are self-sufficient,” he declared, emphasizing the unity of Ugandan Muslims under the UMSC, with only a few mosques remaining outside its fold.

Government and Community Support

Rukia Nakadama, the Third Deputy Prime Minister, commended the UMSC for its remarkable contributions to Uganda’s development. She congratulated the Muslim community on this historic milestone and acknowledged the government’s role, particularly President Museveni’s efforts, in fostering unity among Muslims.

A Global Perspective on Unity and Faith

Renowned Islamic scholar Dr. Zakir Naik captivated the audience with a lecture on the prophecy of Prophet Muhammad in the Bible. He urged attendees to understand religions by studying their scriptures rather than judging their followers. His message highlighted the shared spiritual heritage among faiths, promoting tolerance and mutual respect.

Similarly, Dr. Abdul Azizi bin Abdallah, Deputy Secretary-General of the World Muslim League, delivered a message of solidarity. He expressed gratitude to the Ugandan government for supporting the UMSC and fostering peace and stability in the region. Dr. Abdallah praised the UMSC’s role in promoting unity and harmony within and beyond Uganda’s borders.

Presidential Recognition and a Vision for the Future

In a message read by Vice President Jessica Alupo, President Museveni extended his congratulations to the UMSC on its Golden Jubilee. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to religious freedom and praised the UMSC’s collaboration in providing social services to the Muslim community.

The President encouraged Muslims to embrace wealth creation campaigns aimed at eradicating poverty at the household level. “Division based on religion, race, or gender is ungodly and counterproductive,” his statement read, underscoring the importance of unity and inclusivity.

A Unified Vision for Progress

As the celebrations concluded, the overarching message was one of reflection and forward-thinking. The speakers emphasized the importance of continued unity, development, and gratitude. The achievements of the past 50 years were celebrated, but the event also served as a call to action for the Muslim community to build on this foundation.

The UMSC’s Golden Jubilee is not just a commemoration of history; it’s a reminder of the collective effort needed to achieve progress. With the support of the government and the dedication of the Muslim faithful, the next chapter for Uganda’s Muslim community promises even greater accomplishments.

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