Dr. Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, the Mufti of Uganda, has congratulated Muslims worldwide, particularly Ugandans, on the successful celebrations of Eid Adha, the Feast of Sacrifice, for the year 2024.
This feast commemorates the profound devotion of Prophet Ibrahim to Almighty Allah, demonstrated through his willingness to sacrifice his only son, Ismail. It also coincides with the fifth Islamic pillar, the annual pilgrimage to the Holy Sanctuary of the Kaaba in the Holy City of Makkah, as taught by Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
In his brief but captivating speech, Mufti Mubaje implored Muslims to live righteously, be law-abiding citizens, and always strive to uphold the spirit of brotherhood while respecting people of other denominations.
He also called upon Ugandan Muslims to support the promotion of UMSC developmental programs. “UMSC is still in its infancy and steadily progressing despite challenges mainly caused by a few misguided individuals driven by selfish interests. We urge them to amend their ways; otherwise, we shall leave their case to Almighty Allah,” Mufti Mubaje remarked.
He further encouraged Muslims to embrace all social transformation programs designed by the government aimed at alleviating poverty within the communities, provided they do not conflict with Islamic teachings.
He also congratulated Ugandan Muslims participating in this year’s pilgrimage to Makkah and prayed for Allah to bless and accept their devotion, hoping they return purified from all earthly iniquities.
Lastly, he beseeched Almighty Allah to restore peace and stability to war-torn countries such as Palestine, Syria, Sudan, Somalia, and Ukraine, among many others. Earlier, Hon. Hadji Abbas Muluubya Ssekyanzi, the UMSC Secretary General, addressed the congregants on the state of UMSC affairs, including upcoming programs.
Sheikh Imran Ssali, UMSC Secretary for Religious Affairs and the day’s main preacher, delivered a powerful sermon on peace and tolerance, aiming at community development.
“It is a great human virtue encouraged by the Islamic religion to erase social, cultural, and psychological problems such as hatred, tribalism, violence, and unnecessary anxiety. I implore you to be kind in your affairs with fellow human beings and the entire creation, and to be merciful, humble, and tolerant to one another,” Sheikh Ssali preached.
The large congregation included high-profile personalities such as UMSC heads of department, members of the National Executive Committee, General Assembly, diplomats, members of the Shurah Committee, government officials, and heads of international charity organizations, among many others.
