The Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) has officially launched Kyegegwa Muslim District, marking a significant milestone for the local Muslim community.
The function, held on February 27, 2025, at Kyegegwa Main Mosque, Isaza Cell, Kyegegwa Town Council, was presided over by Sheikh Imran Ssali, UMSC Secretary for Religious Affairs, representing the Mufti of Uganda, His Eminence Dr. Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje.
The launch of Kyegegwa as a recognized Muslim District comes after the appointment and swearing-in of its leaders, including Sheikh Muhammad Kibuuka as the first District Kadhi and Hussein Mwesige Hussein as the Muslim District Chairperson.
Mwesige who also serves as the District Education Officer (DEO), highlighted widespread illiteracy, poverty, and inadequate healthcare as the biggest challenges facing the 30,000-strong Muslim community.
He called for support to enhance education, economic empowerment, and healthcare services.
Sheikh Kibuuka, the new District Kadhi, reflected on the long struggle to gain district status, noting that Kyegegwa was previously under Toro Muslim District, located over 100 miles away. He emphasized the urgent need for Islamic teachers and learning materials, urging Muslims to strengthen unity, discipline, and hard work.
Several local leaders attended the function and committed to supporting the district’s development. Tom Bright Amooti, MP for Kyaka Central, encouraged Muslims to prioritize education, pledging bursaries for children.
He revealed that before Kyegegwa was officially recognized, he had lobbied for the construction of five mosques and donated Shs200,000 to kick-start district activities.
Hillary Baguma, the District Security Officer representing the RDC, advised Muslims to establish mechanisms for peaceful conflict resolution. Jerome Ssejingo, speaking on behalf of Flavia Kabahenda, the Woman MP, conveyed her well wishes and commitment to working with the Muslim community.
In his closing remarks, Sheikh Imran Ssali urged Sheikh Kibuuka to put in place the necessary administrative systems to ensure the district’s sustainability. He also encouraged the Muslim faithful to actively support their leaders, stressing that development requires collective responsibility rather than placing the entire burden on leaders only to criticize them later.
The function was attended by several dignitaries, including Ismail Tumusime and Mansur Lugonjo Kyegegwa Muslim District representatives to the UMSC General Assembly.
