The outgoing Iranian Ambassador to Uganda, H.E. Majid Saffar, has commended Uganda and the Muslim leadership for the cooperation he enjoyed during his diplomatic tenure, expressing optimism about stronger bilateral relations between the two countries.
Saffar made the remarks on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, when he paid a farewell visit to His Eminence Dr. Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, the Mufti of Uganda, at the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) headquarters in Kampala as his tour of duty came to an end.
The ambassador was accompanied by senior embassy officials, including Mr. Rezaeri, D. Ali Asghar, the Cultural Counsellor; Mr. Muhsen Aghaloo, the First Secretary; Mr. Luyimbaazi Issah Katungulu, a cultural expert; and Sheikh Yousuf Zubair Sserunjogi.
In his remarks, Saffar expressed gratitude to the Mufti and Ugandans for the warm reception and cooperation he received during his stay in the country.“Thank you, Your Eminence, for the warm hospitality you have offered me,” he said.
Saffar also spoke about the conflict in the Persian Gulf, describing the attack on Iran as an act of aggression and maintaining that his country’s actions were defensive and consistent with international law on national sovereignty. He recalled Uganda’s role as chair of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), of which both Uganda and Iran are members, saying the two countries could build on their shared diplomatic engagements to deepen cooperation.
The outgoing envoy highlighted opportunities for stronger collaboration in cultural exchange, science and education, noting that Iran was willing to share research, knowledge, skills and expertise that could contribute to Uganda’s social transformation and national development. He said Iranian companies were already operating in Uganda, while others were interested in exploring investment opportunities, particularly in agriculture.
“There are already some Iranian firms operating in Uganda, and more companies are willing to explore investment opportunities in areas of agriculture, such as oilseed farming and livestock production, due to the availability of land and favourable climate, among other natural resources,” he said.
Saffar also reaffirmed Iran’s willingness to receive more Ugandan students into its higher institutions of learning as part of efforts to promote academic exchange and strengthen bilateral relations.
In his response, Mufti Mubaje conveyed his personal condolences to the ambassador following the recent death of his father. He also commended Saffar for the services he had rendered on behalf of Iran and its people during his diplomatic assignment in Uganda.
The Mufti thanked the Ugandan government for maintaining bilateral cooperation with Iran and acknowledged the government’s commitment to religious freedom.
“We as Muslims are also grateful to the government for granting us, like other faith groups, the freedom to worship and practise our faith,” Mubaje said.
He also expressed personal appreciation for the ambassador’s close relationship with UMSC during his time in Uganda.
“We wish you well in your new endeavours. Anyway, we shall miss you,” the Mufti said.And he encouraged the warring parties in the ongong conflict in the Persian Gulf to resolved the issues peacefully.
The Deputy Mufti, His Eminence Sheikh Muhammad Ali Waiswa, and the Chairperson of the National Muslim Women Council, Hon. Hajjat Sophie Saffina Kenyangi, also praised the outgoing envoy for his leadership and the support he extended to Ugandans during his tenure.
Sheikh Mubaje later presented Saffar with gifts, including a silver plaque and souvenirs bearing UMSC logos, in appreciation of his service and cooperation with the Muslim institution.
Other senior UMSC officials present included His Eminence Dr. Sheikh Hafiz Muhammad Harunah Bukenya, the Second Deputy Mufti, and Hadji Abbas Muluubya Ssekyanzi, the UMSC Secretary General.
Before his departure, Saffar appeared on a live talk show on UMSC-owned Radio Bilal, where he bid farewell to the wider Ugandan public.
