Muslim leaders in Luuka District have been urged to set aside sectarian differences and work together to advance education and improve living standards in their communities.
Hajj Karim Kaliisa, Managing Director of Salam TV and Salam Charity under Next Media, made the appeal during a visit to Nakabugu Primary School, a Muslim-founded institution in need of infrastructure upgrades.
He said Salam Charity plans to support the school as part of its broader efforts to uplift Muslims in Luuka.
Founded in 1957, Nakabugu Muslim Primary School is one of the district’s oldest educational institutions. Its main infrastructure, built in 1961, consists of five classrooms and two offices and is now in urgent need of reconstruction to continue supporting Muslim children under the government’s Universal Primary Education (UPE) program.
During his visit, Hajj Kaliisa met with key Muslim leaders, including district Khadis and Imams from various mosques and counties.
He stressed that unity among Muslim leaders is essential for progress, cautioning that internal conflicts can hinder development.
“If you continue to focus on conflicts within Muslim sects, you will slow down development in the area. Let’s work together and use government offices to lobby for support,” he said.
Luuka District RDC, Kibayka Michael, acknowledged the existing imbalance in local development.
“Out of 99 schools in Luuka, 19 are Muslim-founded, yet they receive less funding. We will ensure the Muslim community is included in district development efforts,” he assured.
Salam Charity and Salam TV are planning a fundraising campaign in May under their Smart Community Program to support development projects in Luuka.
Following the meetings, Salam Charity Foundation also gifted the Luuka Muslim community leaders with an Iftar celebration to foster unity and goodwill.