Religious scholars, political leaders, diplomats, academics, and students gathered at Makerere University Business School (MUBS) to commemorate the 36th death anniversary of Imam Ruhollah Khomeini, the founding father of the Islamic Republic of Iran.
The solemn ceremony, held on campus, served as a platform to reflect on Imam Khomeini’s enduring influence on global justice, Islamic unity, and intellectual advancement.
The event was moderated by Hon. Issah Katungulu Luyimbaazi, African Youth Ambassador, and attended by a host of dignitaries including H.E. Majid Saffar, Iran’s Ambassador to Uganda, the Deputy Mufti of Uganda Sheikh Muhammad Ali Waiswa, Hon. Asuman Basalirwa, and other diplomatic and academic representatives.
In his keynote address, Dr. Ahmed Walugembe, who represented the Principal of MUBS, reiterated the institution’s commitment to strengthening ties with the Islamic Republic of Iran, particularly through academic and cultural exchange programmes.
He praised Imam Khomeini’s vision, highlighting his pivotal role in fostering education and diplomacy in Africa.
“Imam Khomeini wasn’t just a revolutionary figure; he was a beacon of intellectual and spiritual transformation,” Dr. Walugembe said. “His legacy lives on in how Iran has embraced self-sufficiency, scientific growth, and support for oppressed nations.”
Dr. Celestine Katongole, Head of the Tourism Department at MUBS, shared his personal experience from a recent academic trip to Iran, describing the country as “misunderstood by the West, but rich in culture, discipline, and technological progress.”
“Many African perceptions are shaped by external narratives,” he noted. “But what we saw in Iran was progress, organisation, and opportunity.”
Dr. Owen Kembabazi, a lecturer at MUBS who attended the International Women’s Congress at Al Zahra University in Tehran, spoke on the importance of knowledge-sharing and women’s empowerment across borders. She called for more cultural initiatives to bridge gaps between Ugandan and Iranian communities.
Religious insight was also offered by Dr. Assadi, a lecturer at Al-Mustafa Islamic College in Kyengera, who delved into Imam Khomeini’s theological foundations and his advocacy for justice and resistance against tyranny.
He emphasised the need for scholars to continue the mission of truth and justice as exemplified by prophetic traditions.
Sheikh Muhammad Ali Waiswa, the Deputy Mufti, delivered a rousing message on Imam Khomeini’s impact on Islamic unity, development, and global resistance to oppression.
He praised Iran for standing firm in its support of the Palestinian cause and called on Uganda’s Muslim community to draw inspiration from such principled leadership.
“Imam Khomeini redefined leadership as simple, accountable, spiritual, and defiant in the face of injustice,” Sheikh Waiswa said. “We must build bridges of knowledge and break barriers that limit our potential.”
On the political front, Hon. Asuman Basalirwa, leader of the Parliamentary Muslim Caucus, lauded Khomeini’s dual role as a spiritual and political leader.
He urged Ugandan leaders to embrace humility and servant leadership, reminding them that development can thrive even under economic sanctions, as seen in Iran.
“Imam Khomeini taught the world that dignity is not measured by extravagance but by service to humanity,” Basalirwa said.
The Iranian Cultural Counsellor, Mr. Abdollah Abbasi, reminded the audience that Imam Khomeini’s vision lives on through the annual observance of International Quds Day, a call for solidarity with oppressed people worldwide.
Closing the ceremony, Ambassador Majid Saffar reaffirmed Iran’s readiness to partner with African nations, especially in science, technology, and education.
“Imam Khomeini was a voice for the voiceless,” Ambassador Saffar said. “His philosophy was rooted in the Quran, respecting sovereignty, standing up for the oppressed, and seeking peace.”
The event was attended by students and staff from multiple institutions, including the Islamic University in Uganda (Female Campus), Excel Vocational Training Centre, Markazi Imam Reza Kiteezi, and Metropolitan International University.
The gathering at MUBS stood as a tribute not only to a revolutionary figure but also to shared aspirations for justice, scholarship, and cultural understanding between Iran and Uganda.
