The Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) has established its 10th Muslim region, uniting the Teso and Karamoja Muslim districts under the revised UMSC Constitution of 2022.
This milestone was marked on Wednesday, November 27, 2024, as Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, the Mufti of Uganda, officiated the consecration of Sheikh Abubakar Umar Obilan as the North Eastern Regional Assistant Mufti during a ceremony held in Soroti City.
The event, conducted at Swalia Muslim Primary School's sports field, attracted a wide audience of Muslim leaders, elders, and community members who braved heavy rains to witness the historic occasion.
Sheikh Obilan took the oath of allegiance and secrecy, administered by Hon. Abubaker Wadanghor Were, Chairperson of the UMSC Electoral Commission.
Mubaje was accompanied by a distinguished UMSC delegation, including Dr. Hafidh Muhammad Harunah Bukenya (2nd Deputy Mufti), Prof. Dr. Muhammadi Lubega Kisambira (UMSC National Chairperson), Mr Muhammad Ali Aluma (Deputy Secretary General for Finance and Administration), and other senior officials.
The delegation was warmly received by Sheikh Asuman Muhammad Ocen, the Kadhi of Teso Muslim District, and other regional leaders.
In his inaugural speech, Sheikh Obilan outlined his vision to mobilize Muslims to prioritize education, encompassing Islamic theology, secular studies, and vocational training.
He also emphasised initiating development programs and fostering partnerships with stakeholders to enhance the region's growth.
Prof. Dr. Lubega highlighted concerns over the loss of key Muslim properties, including Soroti Secondary School and Swalia Muslim Primary School, and vowed to work toward reclaiming these assets on behalf of the UMSC.
During the visit, the Mufti inspected the ongoing construction of a five-bedroom house for Sheikh Juma Mubarak, a long-serving Islamic propagator in Teso.
Sheikh Obilan spearheaded the initiative as a tribute to Mubarak’s unwavering dedication during the insurgency period.
The Mufti and other dignitaries pledged financial and material support, including cement, iron sheets, and cash donations.
Additionally, the delegation visited the proposed site for regional offices, further demonstrating UMSC's commitment to regional infrastructure development.
Key guests at the event included Mr. Okiring Sam, Assistant District Resident Commissioner for Soroti City, and Rev. Dr. Eciru Oliach Joseph of the Soroti Catholic Diocese. Both expressed their readiness to collaborate with Sheikh Obilan to promote unity and development in the region
In his closing address, Mubaje called on Muslims to support UMSC’s self-sustaining initiatives aimed at improving household incomes.
He reiterated the council's dedication to recovering lost Muslim properties and urged the faithful to attend UMSC’s 52nd anniversary celebrations, scheduled for December 12, 2024, at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds.