Kampala, Uganda – President Yoweri Museveni has extended his support to Ugandan Muslims by sponsoring 20 more faithful for the Umrah pilgrimage, adding to the 50 beneficiaries flagged off in July 2025. The delegation was officially sent off today by Senior Presidential Advisor in charge of Political Mobilization, Mr. Moses Byaruhanga, at the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) headquarters in Kampala.
Umrah, often called the “lesser pilgrimage,” allows Muslims to visit the holy city of Mecca, perform sacred rituals at the Ka’aba, and spiritually rejuvenate. It holds immense significance as an opportunity to refresh one’s faith and strengthen one’s connection with Allah.
Addressing the pilgrims, Mr. Byaruhanga expressed gratitude to President Museveni for his initiative and emphasized the transparency of the selection process, with beneficiaries drawn from all regions of Uganda. “Be our good ambassadors during this pilgrimage,” he urged, adding that the pilgrims should pray for continued peace in Uganda, especially as the country approaches the 2026 general elections.
The initiative also reflects the President’s commitment to supporting religious leaders economically. Since Imams and female Muslim scholars (Alimats) often do not receive salaries and are expected to remain near their mosques, Museveni has empowered them through SACCOs. “The President accepted to inject Shs 100 million in each of the two SACCOs in every district one for Imams and another for female scholars,” Byaruhanga said.
Hajjat Mariam Namayanja, Senior Presidential Assistant overseeing the Parish Development Model, encouraged the pilgrims to seek forgiveness, make sincere prayers, and aim to strengthen their spiritual bond with Allah. She cautioned against spreading false claims, emphasizing that those who missed out previously would have future opportunities for Umrah and Hajj.
Hajjat Namayanja also commended UMSC for its cooperation with State House in implementing the program, while UMSC Secretary General, Hadji Abbas Sekyanzi Muluubya, thanked President Museveni for the nationwide initiative, which has offered Muslims from every region a chance to participate.
This program not only deepens the spiritual experiences of Ugandan Muslims but also highlights ongoing government support for faith-based initiatives, fostering unity, peace, and religious engagement across the country.