The Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) celebrated its 50th anniversary on December 12, 2024, at Old Kampala Secondary School.
The Golden Jubilee festivities brought together government officials, religious leaders, dignitaries, and thousands of Muslim faithful in a grand event that highlighted the achievements of the Muslim community over the past five decades, focusing on themes of unity, development, and gratitude.
His Eminence Sheikh Shaban Ramadan Mubaje, the Mufti of Uganda, delivered a keynote address emphasizing the importance of gratitude as a cornerstone of faith.
He reminded attendees that acknowledging Allah’s blessings is fundamental to Islam, and failing to do so is tantamount to disbelief.
Reflecting on the history of Islam in Uganda, Mufti Mubaje traced its origins to the 1880s. However, he noted that true unity among Muslims only began to take shape in the 1970s under the leadership of President Idi Amin. He praised Amin’s contributions, particularly his donation of land for the construction of the Old Kampala Mosque, which became a unifying symbol for Uganda’s Muslim community.
The Mufti also expressed appreciation for the ongoing support of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, citing the pivotal role Museveni played in securing Libyan assistance for the completion of the iconic mosque.
He explained how Museveni facilitated a crucial letter to the late Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi, resulting in the mosque’s completion.
“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 declared.
He also highlighted the growth and self-sufficiency of Uganda’s Muslim community under Museveni’s leadership, emphasizing that they no longer rely on external support for salaries.
Furthermore, he celebrated the unity achieved under the UMSC, with only a few mosques remaining outside its jurisdiction.
Rukia Nakadama, the Third Deputy Prime Minister, lauded the UMSC for its remarkable contributions to Uganda’s development.
She congratulated the Muslim community on reaching this historic milestone and acknowledged the government’s pivotal role, particularly President Museveni’s efforts in fostering unity among Muslims.
A Global Perspective on Unity and Faith
The event also featured a global perspective on faith and unity, with renowned Islamic scholar Dr. Zakir Naik captivating the audience with a lecture on the prophecy of Prophet Muhammad in the Bible. Dr. Naik urged participants to understand different religions by studying their scriptures rather than judging their followers, promoting tolerance and mutual respect among faiths.
Dr. Abdul Azizi bin Abdallah, Deputy Secretary-General of the World Muslim League, also delivered a message of solidarity.
He expressed gratitude to the Ugandan government for its support of the UMSC and its efforts in fostering peace and stability in the region.
Dr. Abdallah commended the UMSC’s work in promoting unity and harmony within and beyond Uganda’s borders.
Uganda’s Vice President, Jessica Alupo, represented President Museveni at the celebrations. She extended the President’s congratulations to the UMSC on its Golden Jubilee and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to religious freedom.
She praised the UMSC for collaborating with the government in providing essential social services to the Muslim community.
In his message, President Museveni encouraged Muslims to participate in wealth-creation campaigns aimed at eradicating household poverty.
He emphasized that divisions based on religion, race, or gender are ungodly and counterproductive, stressing the importance of unity and inclusivity.
As the celebrations drew to a close, the overarching themes of reflection and forward-thinking resonated throughout the event. Speakers underscored the importance of sustained unity, development, and gratitude.
While the achievements of the past 50 years were celebrated, the event also served as a call to action for Uganda’s Muslim community to build on this strong foundation for an even brighter future.
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