The Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) has officially installed Sheikh Abdu-Azizz Kassimu Amin as the first Kadhi of the newly created Zombo Muslim District, marking a significant milestone in the expansion of Muslim administrative structures in the West Nile region.
The colorful installation ceremony was held at the Main Mosque in Nebbi Town Council along the Arua–Gulu Highway and attracted religious leaders, cultural dignitaries, security officials, and members of the Muslim community.
Sheikh Abdu-Azizz, accompanied by his wife and family members, took the oath of office administered by Were Abubakar Wadangho, the National Chairperson of the UMSC Electoral Commission, assisted by Counsel Hadad Salim.
Speaking during the ceremony, Sheikh Abu Jafar Shaban Karala described Sheikh Abdu-Azizz as a disciplined and hardworking leader who had demonstrated commitment while serving as Deputy Kadhi in Arua Muslim District.
“Sheikh Abdu-Azizz has always been focused and dedicated in serving the Muslim community. We believe he will guide Zombo Muslim District successfully,” Sheikh Karala said.
Sheikh Mahdie Mahmood Raihan urged Muslims in Zombo to move beyond past misunderstandings that existed while they were still under Nebbi Muslim District and instead focus on unity and development.
“We should now concentrate on building our new district and strengthening cooperation among Muslims,” Sheikh Mahdie said.
Both Sheikh Mahdie and Sheikh Karala paid tribute to Dick Olum for his contribution toward the establishment of Zombo Muslim District.
“Despite being a Christian, Maj. Gen. Dick Olum played a central role in supporting the creation of this district and today’s successful installation ceremony,” they noted.
Maj. Gen. Dick Olum and Mademoga William pledged support to the new Muslim leadership, promising to work together for the social and economic development of the area.
Upar Angala Jalsonge reflected on the historical prominence of Islam in War Zombo during the 1950s.
“It was a great centre of Islamic learning and trade in the entire West Nile region before those activities later shifted to Arua,” the prince said.
He recalled how massive Maulid celebrations attracted Muslims and non-Muslims alike, leading many people to convert to Islam.
“It is unfortunate that Muslims of this era are becoming unmindful about spreading Islam and instead resort to sowing discord and causing disunity among believers,” he added.
The prince urged the new leadership to prioritize unity and education and pledged scholarships for students pursuing secular education.
The congregation burst into laughter after the prince jokingly asked a senior police officer present to “arrest self-styled Muslim leaders with fake titles” whom he accused of creating confusion within the Muslim community.
In his acceptance speech, Sheikh Abdu-Azizz Kassimu Amin pledged inclusive leadership and commitment to development.
“I will work closely with all Muslims and development partners to ensure the growth and progress of Zombo Muslim District,” he said.
The ceremony concluded with a written message from the Mufti delivered by Sheikh Imran Ssali, in which the Mufti called upon Muslims in Zombo to strengthen unity and establish meaningful development programmes for the benefit of the community.
