The Mufti of Uganda, Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, has reaffirmed the importance of unity and collaboration among religious institutions, noting that cooperation under the Interreligious Council of Uganda (IRCU) continues to play a key role in promoting peace and community development across the country.
Speaking during a meeting with Rev. Canon Associate Grace Lubaale, the newly elected Bishop of Busoga Diocese, the Mufti emphasized that Uganda’s major faith denominations have a shared duty to work together for the common good.
“We congratulate you upon your recent appointment to this high office,” the Mufti said. “We don’t intend to scare you, but it is a very challenging responsibility. It calls for patience, deep listening, and hard work as you execute your duties among the faithful.”
He likened religious leadership to the biblical role of a shepherd guiding and restoring those under his care. “A shepherd ensures the animals are well looked after and brings back those that have gone astray. It is well known from the Holy Scriptures that many of the great prophets first served as shepherds before being commissioned to do God’s work,” he added.
Rev Lubaale’s visit to the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) Headquarters in Old Kampala was a courtesy call to formally notify the Mufti of his election as the fourth Bishop of Busoga Diocese.
He is set to be consecrated in December, succeeding Rt. Rev. Dr. Paul Samson Naimanhye, who is retiring after completing his pastoral mission in the diocese.
The meeting was attended by senior UMSC leadership, including Deputy Mufti Sheikh Muhammad Waiswa, 2nd Deputy Mufti Dr. Sheikh Hafiz Muhammad Harunah Bukenya, Secretary General Haji Abbas Muluubya Ssekyanzi, and Deputy Secretary General for Planning and Development Abdu-Razaq Arinda.
The Mufti briefed the Bishop-elect on the establishment and structures of the UMSC since 1972 and assured him of ongoing goodwill and cooperation between Muslim and Christian communities.
In response, Rev. Lubaale expressed gratitude for the warm reception extended to him and invited the UMSC leadership to attend his consecration ceremony.
The meeting concluded with both leaders reaffirming their commitment to strengthening interfaith dialogue and unity in Busoga and nationwide.