Muslims across Uganda have been urged to embrace sacrifice, forgiveness and unity as they prepare to celebrate Eid al-Adha on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, amid heightened public health vigilance following the Ebola outbreak in neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo.
Delivering the main Friday sermon at the Gaddafi National Mosque, Sheikh Imran Abdnoor Ssali, the Secretary for Religious Affairs at the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council, emphasized that sacrifice remains one of the greatest acts of worship in Islam.
Quoting Prophet Muhammad, Sheikh Ssali told worshippers, “No deed performed by the son of Adam on the Day of Sacrifice is more beloved to Allah than shedding blood of the sacrifice.”
He explained that Eid sacrifice symbolizes obedience to Allah and follows the example set by Prophet Ibrahim.
“The sacrifice is from the Sunnah — the traditions of Prophet Muhammad — and also the tradition of Prophet Ibrahim,” he said.
Sheikh Ssali reminded Muslims that the true value of sacrifice lies in sincerity and devotion rather than the physical act itself.
“It is not the meat or the blood that reaches Allah, but the piety and sincerity,” he said while quoting from the Holy Quran.
He encouraged Muslims to use the Eid period to strengthen relationships through generosity, charity, and kindness.
“It is recommended to eat from the sacrifice, give some in charity and share some with others,” he noted.
The Sheikh also called for reconciliation among families, neighbours, and communities, saying Eid should serve as a moment of healing and restoring broken ties.
“One of the greatest wishes on Eid is the purification of hearts between brothers, neighbours and relatives,” he said.
Describing Eid as a season of joy and remembrance of Allah, he urged believers to celebrate responsibly while maintaining spiritual discipline.
“These are days of eating, drinking and remembering Allah,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Secretary General of the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council, Haji Abas Muluubya Ssekyanzi, appealed to Muslims to observe government Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) issued to prevent the spread of Ebola.
He urged worshippers to arrive early for Eid prayers, which will begin at 9:00am and end by 9:30am to reduce overcrowding.
“The early scheduling is intended to ensure safety while preserving the sanctity of Eid prayers,” Ssekyanzi said.
Eid al-Adha is one of the most important festivals in Islam, commemorating Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son, Prophet Ismael, in obedience to Allah before a ram was provided as a substitute.
