The Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) and the Muslim Parliamentary Caucus have committed to strengthening collaboration to advance legislation, socio-economic development and the welfare of Muslims across the country.
The commitment was reached during the first engagement between the UMSC leadership and Muslim Members of Parliament from the 12th Parliament, attended by 29 legislators, while 15 others sent apologies.
The meeting brought together Vice President Jessica Alupo, Third Deputy Prime Minister Lukia Nakadama, Minister for Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs Minsa Kabanda, senior government officials and UMSC leaders.
Speaking at the engagement, the Mufti of Uganda, Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, said the meeting marked the beginning of a strategic partnership between the council and Muslim legislators to promote the interests and development of the Muslim community.
"This meeting is intended to establish a strategic partnership between UMSC and Muslim Members of Parliament in advancing the interests of the Muslim community," Sheikh Mubaje said.
He traced the history of Islam in Uganda, highlighting its resilience through the colonial period, challenges of sectarian divisions, the formation of UMSC and institutional reforms that have strengthened the council over the years.
Sheikh Mubaje thanked Vice President Alupo for attending the meeting and asked her to convey UMSC's appreciation to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for what he described as continued support to the Muslim community.
He also pledged closer cooperation between UMSC and government in implementing development programmes and requested a one-week induction retreat for UMSC leaders at the National Leadership Institute (NALI) in Kyankwanzi to improve their understanding of Uganda’s socio-economic transformation agenda.
Vice President Alupo commended the Mufti and UMSC leadership for maintaining stability and growing the institution over the past 25 years.
"UMSC has played a significant role in promoting religious moderation, tolerance and responsible citizenship, especially among the youth, while strengthening institutional governance and developing sustainable sources of income," Alupo said.
She urged Muslim MPs to work closely with UMSC in identifying and advancing legislative priorities affecting the Muslim community.
Alupo also highlighted the global halal industry as an economic opportunity for Uganda, encouraging increased production and exports to Muslim-majority countries.
She called on Ugandans to focus on building strong institutions rather than personalities, promoting partnerships over divisions and creating opportunities instead of grievances.
The Vice President said collective efforts were necessary to build a peaceful, prosperous and inclusive Uganda.
