President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has called on Muslim leaders to play a stronger role in promoting national unity, peace and wealth creation as part of Uganda’s broader socio-economic transformation.
The President made the remarks yesterday during a meeting with a delegation of Muslim leaders at State Lodge, Nakasero. The delegation was led by former First Deputy Mufti of Uganda, Sheikh Abdallah Ssemambo.
The meeting focused on issues of national importance, including strengthening unity among Ugandans and enhancing the contribution of religious leaders to peacebuilding and development.
President Museveni commended the Muslim community for its continued role in national development and for providing guidance to believers, noting that religious institutions remain key partners in community transformation.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to working closely with religious leaders to address social and economic challenges and to support initiatives aimed at improving citizens’ welfare.
“We have no issue with religious beliefs because God is one. Your different ways of looking at Him are your issues. As long as you don’t break the law, I have no problem at all,” President Museveni said.
He also urged the leaders to encourage their communities to focus on economic empowerment as a foundation for dignity and stability.
“We should also concentrate on wealth creation. Whatever you believe in, please get out of poverty,” he said.
In his concluding remarks, President Museveni thanked the Muslim community for its support of the National Resistance Movement (NRM), citing businessman Hassan Basajjabala as an example of Muslims who have combined entrepreneurship with active participation in national leadership.
“When we were in Ishaka he said supporting the NRM is not only supporting the ruling party but supporting ourselves,” the President said.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Sheikh Ssemambo expressed appreciation to the President for engaging Muslim leaders and for his continued support to the community.
“I want to take this opportunity to thank you for inviting us and thank you for the great work you have done to develop this country, Your Excellency,” Sheikh Ssemambo said.
He also praised the President for upholding freedom of worship in Uganda and reaffirmed the Muslim leadership’s commitment to working with government to promote unity and peaceful coexistence.
“We have come to re-affirm to you that we are following, we are behind you and we are doing our best to guide the people that this is the right person to support,” he said.
Former Bunyoro, Tooro Regional Kadhi, Sheikh Muhammad Irumba, also commended President Museveni’s leadership and contribution to Uganda’s development.
“We extend our most sincere appreciation for your good leadership and contribution to the country,” Sheikh Irumba said.
The meeting brought together Muslim leaders from Western, Eastern, Northern and Central Uganda.
