Mubaje pledges support in fight against counterfeit agricultural inputs

By Ahmed Idriss

Support for the fight against counterfeit agricultural inputs has received a boost after the Mufti of Uganda, Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, committed the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) to promoting quality products and improved livelihoods in the sector.

Mubaje made the commitment on Wednesday while officiating at the launch of the Halaal Farmers Centre Arua branch at Irishad Mosque (Koja) in Arua City.

He acknowledged the critical role of agriculture in improving livelihoods and called for collective efforts to strengthen the sector, regardless of religious affiliation.

The Mufti noted that such initiatives align with Islamic values, as they support communities to improve their welfare and contribute to national development.

The Halaal Farmers Centre is an initiative of Matugga Industries and Logistics Hub Ltd, implemented in partnership with UMSC to promote agriculture through establishment of centres across the country.

Executive Chairperson of Matugga Industries and Logistics Hub Ltd, Fiona Migadde, said manufacturers continue to face challenges from counterfeit agricultural inputs and products on the market.

She noted that the practice negatively affects farmers, who often unknowingly purchase substandard products.

The Mufti is currently in the West Nile region on a working visit, during which he is launching additional Halaal Farmers Centre branches in Arua, Koboko, and Yumbe.

During the visit, he also called for unity among communities as a key driver of development.