Muslims in the Greater Mubende region have appealed to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni to extend more support to their communities through their religious leaders, saying this would help them improve their livelihoods and overcome poverty.
The appeal was made during a visit by Sheikh Said Kasawuli, Chairperson of all Imams in Uganda and founder of the Structured Imaams and Amiirats Assembly of Uganda, who toured the area and commissioned development projects initiated by local Imams.
Led by Sheikh Abdul Hakim Ssemayengo, the deputy chairperson of the association in Greater Mubende, the Imams said they had responded to Sheikh Kasawuli's call for self-reliance by purchasing more than 15 acres of land where they are undertaking various income-generating activities.
Sheikh Kasawuli was accorded a ceremonial welcome into Mubende Town, escorted by police and traditional drummers.
During the visit, he inspected projects including crop farming, livestock rearing and other economic activities aimed at improving the welfare of Imams and dispelling the perception that Muslim clerics do not engage in productive work.
While commissioning the farm, Sheikh Kasawuli pledged to continue lobbying the President to support Muslim development initiatives.
«"We shall continue engaging the President to ensure that Muslim communities and their development programmes receive the support they deserve," Sheikh Said Kasawuli said.»
Members of the Muslim community also raised concerns about the economic challenges they face and appealed for greater consideration when opportunities to perform the Hajj pilgrimage are allocated.
Sheikh Abdul Hakim Ssemayengo welcomed Sheikh Kasawuli's initiative of visiting Muslim communities across Uganda to promote self-reliance and development.
«"This programme has inspired Imams in Greater Mubende to embrace development projects that can improve their livelihoods and those of their communities," Sheikh Abdul Hakim Ssemayengo said.»
He further appealed to the government to increase the number of Hajj slots allocated to Muslims and ensure that members of their association are fairly considered during the allocation process.
Later, Sheikh Kasawuli met Muslims gathered at Mubende-Kasanda Mosque, where he outlined the association's development agenda and encouraged them to actively participate in income-generating projects.
Elderly Muslims who attended the meeting also appealed for assistance in fulfilling the Islamic pilgrimage, saying many of them no longer have the financial means to travel to Makkah.
«"Many elderly Muslims have long wished to perform Hajj, but they can no longer afford the costs involved. We ask our leaders to help us achieve this important pillar of our faith," one of the worshippers said
