The Senior Presidential Advisor on Political Affairs and Head of the Office of the National Chairman (ONC), Hadijah Namyalo Uzeiye, has extended Ramadan relief support to Muslim inmates at Jinja Main Prison, delivering assorted food items to support them during the holy month of Ramadan.
During her visit to the facility in Jinja, Namyalo was received by the Officer-in-Charge, Superintendent of Prisons Daniel Nsolonkambwe Ssekijjo, before handing over the items as part of the ongoing outreach organised by the Office of the National Chairman.
While handing over the relief, Namyalo said the initiative was inspired by Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, who directed that Muslims in prisons should also be supported during the holy month of Ramadan.
“Ramadan is a time for reflection, repentance and self-discipline. Use this period to reform and prepare yourselves for a responsible return to society,” Namyalo told the inmates.
She explained that the President had reflected on the welfare of Ugandans in different circumstances, including those in correctional facilities, and emphasised the need to ensure that they are not left behind during important religious observances.
Namyalo also cautioned young people against engaging in criminal activities, noting that prison life comes with significant hardships and should serve as a warning to those tempted to pursue crime.
“Prison life comes with many challenges. I urge young people out there to avoid criminal activities and focus on building productive lives,” she said.
She further commended prison authorities for their rehabilitation and welfare programmes aimed at reforming inmates and pledged that her office would explore areas where additional support could be provided.
Namyalo also assured inmates that their concerns would be forwarded to President Museveni, especially for those who qualify for clemency based on good conduct and demonstrated reform.
“I will ensure that your concerns are forwarded to President Yoweri Museveni for consideration, especially for those who qualify for clemency based on long service, good conduct and clear demonstration of reform,” she said.
Receiving the donation, Superintendent Nsolonkambwe welcomed the gesture and thanked both Namyalo and the President for remembering inmates during Ramadan.
“This support greatly boosts the morale of inmates during this important period of fasting and reflection,” he said.
He noted that Jinja Main Prison currently hosts more than 1,900 inmates, including both remanded and convicted prisoners, who would benefit from the assistance. He also assured that the donated items would be delivered to the intended beneficiaries.
Later in the evening, Namyalo proceeded to Iganga District where she joined the Muslim community at the headquarters of the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council for Iftar, the breaking of the Ramadan fast.
The gathering attracted Muslim leaders, clerics, local leaders and believers from across the region who convened to share a meal and prayers during the holy month.
Addressing the faithful, Namyalo commended the Muslim community for their continued support for President Museveni.
“Your continued support for President Museveni over the years demonstrates the confidence the Muslim community has in his leadership and his commitment to maintaining peace, stability and development in our country,” she said.
She also revealed that the President had pledged Shs20 billion to support Muslim women through Savings and Credit Cooperative Organisations (SACCOs) as part of broader efforts to empower women economically.
“The President has committed Shs20 billion to empower Muslim women through SACCOs. I encourage you to organise yourselves and join these groups so that you can benefit from the initiative,” Namyalo added.
She further urged the youth to remain disciplined, avoid criminal activities and engage in productive ventures that can improve their livelihoods and contribute to national development.
The event concluded with prayers for peace, unity and prosperity for the country as Muslims continue observing the holy month of Ramadan.
