The Mufti of Uganda, Sheikh Shaban Ramadan Mubaje, has expressed concern over the consistently low number of Ugandan Muslims making the annual pilgrimage to Makkah, despite the country being entitled to tens of thousands of slots.
Speaking during the official send-off ceremony for 135 pilgrims at the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) headquarters in Old Kampala, Sheikh Mubaje noted that Uganda has failed to utilise even 10 percent of its Haj quota.
“Saudi Arabia allocates 1,000 pilgrimage slots for every one million people. Uganda qualifies for 45,000, but we have not even filled 10 percent,” he said.
The Mufti blamed the situation on the neglect of the Haj obligation by many financially capable Muslims, criticising those seeking free sponsorships despite having the means to self-fund.
“It is surprising that people with big offices and large incomes are calling us for free Haj offers. Even those with acres of land cannot sacrifice a portion to fulfil this important pillar of Islam,” Sheikh Mubaje said.
He also faulted local Muslim leaders for failing to mobilise and educate their communities on the religious significance of Haj.
A report by Sheikh Ali Juma Shiwuyo, the UMSC Secretary for Haj and Umrah, revealed that some Muslim districts had not sent any pilgrims this year.
According to the report, Bugisu Muslim District led with 23 pilgrims, followed by Iganga with 21. Among those recognised was Amina Nambogwe, a peasant from Iganga who had saved for Haj since 2016. Although she had not completed her payments, the Mufti ordered her inclusion in recognition of her dedication.
The Mufti also applauded President Museveni for sponsoring 100 Muslims this year and called for the prosecution of individuals defrauding aspiring pilgrims through fake travel offers.
“Pilgrimage is an act of worship, not a business venture. Those conning believers with false promises must face the full force of the law,” Mubaje emphasised.
UMSC Secretary General Hadji Abas Muluubya Ssekyanzi echoed the concern, urging vigilance against scam operators. He cited incidents in Mubende where hopeful pilgrims lost money to unregistered travel firms.