Advert
-->

Scholars urged to localise religious guidance for impact

Education -->
Scholars urged to localise religious guidance for impact
Caption not available

Muslim scholars have been urged to ground their religious guidance (Fatwa) in the unique realities of the communities they serve to ensure relevance and effectiveness.

This call was made by Prof. Koutoub Moustapha Sano, Secretary General of the International Fiqh Academy, during the inaugural International Conference on Islamic Jurisprudence hosted by the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC).

The event is part of UMSC’s Golden Jubilee celebrations.

Delivering his keynote address, Dr. Koutoub likened Fatwa to medicine, emphasising the need for tailored solutions.

“Just as medicine must suit the health needs of a particular community, Fatwa must respond to the specific societal realities it serves,” he said.

He cautioned against adopting religious rulings from foreign contexts without considering local conditions, noting that “locally produced Fatwa makes a significant impact, which is the intended purpose.”

Dr. Koutoub also called for unity among Muslim scholars, urging them to prioritise institutional decision-making over individual opinions, especially on public matters.

“Whether Maliki or Hanafi, your school of thought is always best to you, but don’t let these differences create division,” he stressed.

Additionally, he proposed the establishment of an annual African Muftis meeting to foster collaboration and suggested financial independence for such gatherings to ensure impartiality.

Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, the Mufti of Uganda, echoed Dr. Koutoub’s sentiments, emphasising the importance of interpreting Islam based on the Quran and Hadith.

“This meeting underscores the need for Muslims to interpret Islam directly from the Quran and Hadith, without external influence. That is the foundation of our belief,” he said.

The two-day forum, which attracted Muftis and scholars from over 30 African countries, including Rwanda, South Africa, Sudan, Kenya, and DR Congo, aimed to strengthen cooperation and address shared challenges within the Muslim community.

Resolutions from the conference are expected to enhance Islamic leadership across the continent.

Founded in 1972 under then-President Gen. Idi Amin, the UMSC was established to unify Muslims in Uganda.

Its Golden Jubilee celebrations, delayed due to the Covid-19 pandemic, will culminate on December 12, 2024, at the Gaddafi National Mosque in Old Kampala.

The Mufti invited all Ugandans, regardless of faith, to join the celebrations.

Notable participants at the conference included Dr. Rashid Ssemundu, Uganda’s Ambassador to Sudan, as well as regional assistants to the Mufti, district Kadhis, and other dignitaries.

Reader's Comments

RELATED ARTICLES

LATEST STORIES