Langi Quran translation project launched in Lira

By Issa Kigongo

A seven-member team of Muslim scholars and language experts has been tasked with translating the Holy Quran into Langi, in an effort to make the scripture more accessible to Muslims in northern Uganda who speak the indigenous language.

The committee was launched by the Mufti of Uganda, Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, during celebrations marking the birth of Prophet Muhammad in Lira City on Saturday, October 03.

The team includes Muslim scholars, Islamic teachers and language specialists with experience in Sharia and Langi translation.

Among them are Sheikh Sadick Ayo, Imam of Idi Amin Mosque in Lira City; Sheikh Shaban Sadam Nasser of Taqwa Mosque; Sheikh Hafiz Nurain Maganda, Director of Haif Islamic Nursery and Primary School; and Sheikh Ali Yakub Okwir, a District Kadhi.

Others are Ocom Ismael, a Harvard University graduate; Ogal Ismael, a consultant and translator of learning materials in Langi with the Ministry of Education and Sports; and Sheikh Abdul-Karim Omar, Deputy Kadhi.

The project is intended to provide Langi-speaking Muslims with access to the Quran in a language they understand best.

The initiative was supported financially by Haj Masoud Obeid, a Kampala-based businessman and native of the Lango sub-region, who also sponsored the region’s Mawlid celebrations.

The launch formed part of a wider gathering that brought together Muslim leaders from Lango and neighbouring districts.

Sheikh Musa Khelili, the Northern Regional Assistant to the Mufti, presented a report on the state of the Muslim community in Lango, raising issues concerning Muslim leadership, administration and the management of Muslim properties in Lango Muslim District.

Responding to the concerns, Mubaje said he would return to the region for a week-long visit to engage directly with the Muslim community and seek solutions to the issues raised.

He, however, cautioned against rushing into changes in the leadership of Lango Muslim District.

“As for now, there is no hurry for any leadership change in Lango Muslim District,” Mubaje said.

The gathering also included performances by Kampala Mataali Events, West Nile Mataali Group and Lango Mataali Group as part of the 2026 Muslim praise competition.

In his address, Mubaje spoke about the social and religious conditions he said existed in Arabia before the birth of Prophet Muhammad, including idol worship and bloodshed. He urged Muslims to draw lessons from the Prophet’s teachings on brotherhood, respect and peaceful coexistence.

He described Prophet Muhammad as a mercy to humanity and called on Muslims to uphold his teachings as part of their religious and social responsibilities.