The Mufti of Uganda, Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, has officially launched the Lugazi Muslim Imams Association (LALMA).
He was represented at the event by the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) Secretary for Religious Affairs, Sheikh Imran Abdu-noor Ssali.
Speaking on behalf of the Mufti, Sheikh Ssali commended the Imams for their initiative to form an association, describing it as "appropriate and timely."
He offered guidance on sustainable development strategies, urging them to craft a detailed and affordable work plan and budget within their financial capacity, while cautioning against fostering a dependency mindset.
"The idea of being self-reliant strengthens your personal esteem, as well as the esteem of those you lead," Sheikh Ssali told the audience.
He encouraged the members to begin with small, practical income-generating activities, such as keeping chickens or planting jackfruit trees at their homes.
He suggested that proceeds from such ventures could later be pooled to fund larger projects, like goat rearing.
"Imagine, we already have a ready market for goats and other domestic animals, especially during Eid Adhu (the Feast of Sacrifice)," he noted.
Sheikh Ssali also emphasised the importance of staying focused on the association’s objectives, maintaining transparency, and avoiding divisions that could threaten their unity.
He further advised them to collaborate with local government structures and tap into poverty alleviation programs, such as the Parish Development Model.
In response to earlier appeals for transportation support for the District Kadhi and County Sheikhs, Sheikh Ssali pledged to lobby for a vehicle for the District Kadhi.
He also encouraged County Sheikhs to mobilize annual contributions from Muslim faithful to purchase motorcycles to facilitate their religious duties.
Before concluding his remarks, Sheikh Ssali invited Sheikh Ahmad Mukungu, a member of the UMSC Majlis Al Ulama (College of Eminent Sheikhs), to address the gathering regarding the recent re-election of Mubaje for another five-year term as Mufti of Uganda.
Sheikh Mukungu emphasised that the election was conducted in full compliance with the UMSC Constitution and urged the faithful to disregard misinformation circulating on social media.
Other dignitaries present at the event included Sheikh Mustafa Khamis Lule, Regional Assistant to the Mufti for East Buganda, and Mr. Sadiq Muhairwe, East Buganda Regional Secretary, among others.