The titular head of Muslims in Uganda, Prince Kassim Nakibinge, has urged Ugandans and Britons to deepen their cultural and economic cooperation, emphasizing the importance of religious tolerance and mutual respect.
Prince Nakibinge made the remarks while receiving the British High Commissioner to Uganda during a courtesy visit aimed at strengthening relations between the United Kingdom, the Buganda Kingdom, and Uganda’s Muslim community.
“Our discussions have centered on focusing on what brings us together, as opposed to what divides us. We have emphasized respect for each other’s values and encouraged our people to embrace religious tolerance,” Prince Nakibinge said.
He noted that the meeting also explored ways of enhancing intercultural understanding and identifying business opportunities that can benefit communities in both countries.
Prince Nakibinge commended the British government for its historical and ongoing support to Ugandans, especially those living in the diaspora.
“We are very grateful to the British people for the support they have always given us from the past to the present. Many of our people in the diaspora, including students, have benefited from their protection and guidance,” he stated.
Prince Nakibinge expressed optimism that the cooperation between Uganda and the United Kingdom will continue to grow, describing the High Commissioner’s visit as a significant step towards strengthening these bonds.
He extended an open invitation to the Commissioner for future engagements with the Muslim community.
The British High Commissioner’s visit is seen as part of wider efforts to reinforce bilateral relations through cultural diplomacy and community-level engagements.
The British High Commissioner to Uganda, Lisa Chesney reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s commitment to strengthening historical ties with Uganda, emphasizing the shared values of religious tolerance, interfaith cooperation, and economic development.
Chesney praised the deep rooted relationship between the UK and Uganda, noting that such bonds must be nurtured to remain “warm and robust.”
“Our links go back centuries and it’s important to keep them strong,” Chesney said. “We’ve had wide-ranging discussions on how unity, respect for diversity, and economic collaboration can continue to bring our people together.”
Chesney highlighted that His Majesty King Charles III is a firm advocate of interfaith dialogue and religious tolerance values she said are equally important to the British government’s engagements with Uganda.
“I come bringing the message from my government that interfaith activity and religious tolerance remain of paramount importance. It’s a shared interest that continues to unite our nations,” Chesney noted.
She also pointed out that business development is a critical pillar of the UK-Uganda partnership, emphasizing that a “rising tide lifts all boats” as both countries pursue mutual economic opportunities.
Chesney lauded Uganda’s culture of religious tolerance, which she described as “impressive,” and expressed optimism that the meeting with Prince Nakibinge would open doors for even closer cooperation.
“I leave here with an even stronger relationship, and I look forward to many more conversations and deeper collaboration in the future,” she added.