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On Wednesday, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni welcomed the leadership of the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) to State House in Entebbe for discussions.
Leading the delegation were prominent figures such as the Mufti of Uganda, Sheikh Shaban Ramathan Mubajje, UMSC Chairperson Dr. Muhammad Lubega Kisambira, Sheikh Obeid Kamulegeya, and Hajjat Sophia Safina Kenyangi, Chairperson of the National Muslim Women Council. Hadji Abbas Ssekyanzi Muluubya, the UMSC Secretary-General, was also present.
During the meeting, the UMSC leaders commended President Museveni for his dedication to fostering unity, security, and socio-economic progress for Muslims and all Ugandans.
They expressed gratitude for the financial support provided by the President for various Islamic activities, including the constitutional review and UMSC elections. Sheikh Mubajje informed President Museveni that the UMSC has embraced the parish development model (PDM) and pledged their full cooperation with government wealth creation programs across the country.
Furthermore, the UMSC revealed plans to launch a comprehensive coffee and cocoa planting initiative in the ten Muslim regions of Uganda, aiming to support the government’s poverty eradication efforts. The project is scheduled to commence in August, with a target of planting at least 200 acres in each region. Sheikh Mubajje requested government assistance in ensuring the smooth operation of this initiative.
Additionally, the UMSC invited President Museveni to the upcoming “UMSC @ 50” event in December, expecting over 2,000 attendees, including more than 40 Muftis from around the world. They sought the President’s endorsement and support to make this celebration a success.
The UMSC also requested President Museveni’s backing for a Uganda Women Muslim Council function in October, aiming to empower Muslim women in Uganda.
In response, President Museveni appreciated the UMSC leaders’ support for the government’s prosperity programs. He emphasized the importance of providing youths with guidance and skills to navigate life successfully, particularly addressing challenges associated with groups like the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF). He stressed the significance of churches and mosques in promoting economic empowerment and self-sufficiency among their followers.
President Museveni pledged his support for the UMSC’s activities and initiatives throughout the year, reaffirming his commitment to collaboration with religious organizations to promote unity and socio-economic development.