Muslims across the world, including Uganda, have celebrated Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan.
In Uganda, the national prayers were led by His Eminence Dr Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, the Mufti of Uganda, at the Uganda National Mosque in Old Kampala, where thousands of faithful gathered for the celebrations.
The event was attended by several high-profile figures, including Mr Ramathan Ggoobi, Permanent Secretary and Secretary to the Treasury at the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development; Prof. Dr Badru Kiggundu, former Chairperson of the Electoral Commission; Muslim leaders both serving and retired; Hon. Hadji Abbas Muluubya Ssekyanzi, the UMSC Secretary General; his two deputies representing the National Management team; as well as other community leaders.
In his address to the congregation, Mufti Mubaje called for unity, peace, and coexistence among Ugandans.
“We call upon you to embrace and support unity initiatives because they are part of the core values for community development. So let us redirect all our energies, commitment and values towards building a peaceful and united Uganda,” he advised.
He also expressed sympathy for people facing hardships such as imprisonment, illness, and other forms of suffering.
The Mufti further highlighted the humanitarian crises affecting parts of the world, particularly conflicts in the Middle East, and urged Muslims to remain steadfast in faith and guidance from the Holy Qur’an.
“It is not righteousness that you turn your faces towards east or west; but it is righteousness to believe in Allah…”
He encouraged believers to deepen their faith, trust in Allah, and reflect on Qur’anic teachings, including those in Surah Quraysh, which emphasise worship, gratitude, and reliance on Allah for sustenance and security.
At the same time, he urged parties involved in conflicts to pursue peaceful resolutions in line with international law and the United Nations Charter.
On national matters, the Mufti appealed to the Government of Uganda to fulfil its pledge to compensate business people affected by recent floods in parts of Kampala.
“We also strongly request the Government that before implementing the directive of forceful removal of market vendors and boda boda cyclists, they should first be reallocated to appropriate places where they can continue their businesses,” he said.
He warned that failure to do so could lead to increased hardship and social challenges.
Earlier, Mr Ramathan Ggoobi delivered a speech on behalf of the Government, encouraging Ugandans to embrace national wealth creation programmes.
“These are not political or sectarian funds; they are opportunity funds. I encourage you to take full advantage of these programmes to start or expand wealth creation ventures and improve household incomes,” he said.
He highlighted key sectors with strong potential for growth, including halal agriculture and livestock production, coffee and grain production, logistics and regional trade, Islamic finance and ethical banking, as well as tourism and hospitality.
He concluded by urging citizens to safeguard peace, promote unity, and embrace hard work as the foundation for national prosperity.
Meanwhile, UMSC Secretary General, Hadji Abbas Muluubya Ssekyanzi, shared updates on the Council’s progress and achievements.
“The Council is now operating its activities smoothly,” he noted.
