Hundreds of Muslims gathered at Abubakar Mosque on Friday to mark Eid al-Fitr, signaling the end of the holy month of Ramadan in an atmosphere of deep spiritual reflection.
Religious leaders used the occasion to urge believers to sustain the discipline and devotion cultivated during the past 30 days, while also calling on the government to show compassion amid the city’s growing economic challenges.
Delivering the main sermon, Sheikh Umar Mucere emphasized that the end of Ramadan should not mark the end of “holy habits” acquired during the fasting period.
“Ramadan is a school where we learn self-discipline and closeness to Allah,” Sheikh Mucere said.
“The true success of your fast is seen in how you behave after the month has passed. Keep the spirit of prayer, almsgiving, and righteous actions alive in your homes and businesses every day.”
He stressed that consistency is a hallmark of true faith, cautioning believers against reverting to practices that contradict Islamic teachings.
Socio-Economic Concerns Raised
The celebrations also took on a socio-economic dimension as the District Kaadhi, Sheikh Abdullah Mukwaya, highlighted the challenges facing the urban poor in Mbarara City.
He made a direct appeal to authorities over the enforcement of city trade regulations, particularly the eviction of street vendors.
“We recognize the need for an organized city, but we must also consider the reality of our people’s livelihoods,” Sheikh Mukwaya said.
“I ask the government to soften the eviction of street vendors and provide alternative spaces for them to operate.”
Mukwaya noted that many families depend on petty trade for survival and to meet essential obligations such as Zakat.
“Removing them without viable alternatives risks pushing many into deeper poverty and desperation,” he added.
Following the prayers, many attendees expressed renewed spiritual commitment, while local leaders described the messages of compassion, discipline, and consistency as timely given the current economic pressures.
As celebrations continued with communal meals, the central message remained clear: the end of Ramadan is not a finish line, but a starting point for a more righteous, disciplined, and empathetic life.