President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and First Lady Janet Kataha Museveni has welcomed Muslim leaders, government officials, and business figures to a significant Iftar dinner at State House, Entebbe, marking the 25th night of Ramadan with a focus on fostering socioeconomic transformation, national unity, and economic empowerment.
The event, blending spiritual reflection with developmental discourse, highlighted the convergence of faith and policy in Uganda’s journey toward prosperity.
Deputy Mufti Sheikh Ali Waiswa, representing the Mufti of Uganda, set the tone by urging Muslim leaders to weave economic empowerment into their religious teachings. Emphasizing the alignment of the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council’s poverty eradication initiatives with government programs, he called on the faithful to embrace Ramadan as a time for reconciliation, forgiveness, and reinforcing communal ties.
“This sacred month is not only for spiritual renewal but also for collective action toward uplifting our communities,” Waiswa stated, underscoring the role of faith leaders in driving tangible change.
President Museveni, addressing the gathering, lauded the Muslim community’s engagement with national programs such as the Parish Development Model (PDM), a flagship initiative aimed at transitioning households from subsistence to commercial agriculture.
Acknowledging earlier debates over loan interest rates tied to such programs, he noted that scholars had recognized the pragmatic need to adjust for inflation, paving the way for broader acceptance.
The President stressed the urgency of active participation in wealth creation, cautioning against reliance on prayer alone to alleviate poverty.
“Faith must be coupled with action. Economic liberation demands that we harness opportunities in agriculture, industry, and services,” he asserted, urging attendees to leverage government resources to transform their livelihoods.
The evening also served as a platform to honor individuals for their contributions to national development.
Hajjat Hadijah Namyalo, Senior Presidential Advisor and Manager of the Office of the National Chairman (ONC), received an Excellent Service Award for her leadership in advancing grassroots initiatives.
Emotional yet resolute, Namyalo dedicated the accolade to Ugandans and reaffirmed her commitment to supporting President Museveni’s vision, particularly as the nation eyes the 2026 elections.
“Our collective efforts must remain steadfast in building a Uganda where no one is left behind,” she declared. Other honorees included Dr. Yahya Ssemuddu, celebrated for his healthcare advocacy, and Sheikh Erias Kigozi, recognized for his interfaith peacebuilding efforts.
Vice President Maj. (Rtd) Jessica Alupo, Kampala Capital City Authority Executive Director Sharifah Buzeki, and prominent business leader Hajji Yasin of Success Motors were among the notable attendees, alongside regional kadhis, ministers, and permanent secretaries. Their presence underscored the government’s collaborative approach to development, bridging religious, political, and entrepreneurial spheres.
As Ramadan enters its final ten days—a period revered for heightened devotion, charity, and reflection—the Iftar gathering resonated as a call to action. Participants were reminded to channel the spirit of the holy month into sustained efforts toward unity and shared prosperity.
