Thousands of Muslims gathered at Masjid Mbogo in Kawempe on Wednesday for Eid Adhuha prayers, as religious and political leaders used the occasion to call for unity, forgiveness, education and self-reliance within the Muslim community.
The grounds of the mosque, built with support from Salam Charity and Next Media at Large, filled with worshippers early in the morning as Muslims joined millions around the world in marking one of the holiest days on the Islamic calendar.
Leading the prayers, Sheikh Shuraim Bukenya reflected on the spiritual significance of Eid Adhuha and the Day of Arafah, reminding worshippers about gratitude, sacrifice and obedience to Allah.
He thanked Allah for the gift of life and creation, saying human beings were created “in a very beautiful picture and every part of the body was put where it is supposed to be.”
Speaking about the Day of Arafah, observed on the 9th day of Dhul Hijja, Sheikh Bukenya said it is among the most important days in Islam because Allah answers prayers and forgives sins.
“Whatever Allah gives us to practice in Islam is the easiest. He never wanted us to be burdened,” Sheikh Bukenya told the congregation.
He emphasized that the act of sacrifice during Eid Adhuha should be carried out sincerely and in remembrance of Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion to Allah.
The Sheikh reminded Muslims that sacrifice must be done “for the sake of Allah” and urged those slaughtering animals to offer only the best.
He recounted the Islamic teaching of Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son Ismail before Allah substituted the sacrifice with a sheep, an event that forms the foundation of Eid Adhuha commemorations.
Beyond sacrifice, Sheikh Bukenya urged Muslims to use the celebration as an opportunity for reconciliation, forgiveness and strengthening family ties.
“We should use this opportunity to forgive those relatives, friends, family members and everyone around us that might have wronged us. Allah wants those who forgive each other. Loving your family is what Allah loves most,” he said.
He also encouraged worshippers to share meat with neighbours, relatives, friends and vulnerable people who may not afford to slaughter animals during Eid celebrations.
Throughout the prayers, Muslims were urged to give sadaaqa, support the needy and maintain discipline during the celebrations.
“I thank Allah for giving us another opportunity to witness Eid Adhuha,” one worshipper said shortly after prayers.
Addressing the congregation, Erias Luyimbazi Nalukoola called on Muslims to focus on education and self-reliance rather than depending entirely on government support.
“There is no one that will develop you. Educate your children to prepare them for the future instead of calling government for help. It is us to help ourselves,” Nalukoola said.
The Kawempe North MP also expressed concern about what he described as limited Muslim representation in the recently released cabinet appointments.
“The current released cabinet lacks Muslims. The government should look into it. As Muslims, we need to show that we are able, and this is done by educating our children,” he added.
Eid Adhuha, also known as the Feast of Sacrifice, is one of the two major Islamic celebrations observed worldwide. The day commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion and willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah before the sacrifice was replaced with a ram.
The celebration is traditionally marked through communal prayers, animal sacrifice, acts of charity and sharing food with family members, neighbours and the less privileged.
