Prince Nakibinge hosts dignitaries, tycoons for Iftar
By Abdul-Wahid Kakande
Prince Kassim Nakibinge Kakungulu, the titular head of Uganda’s Muslim community, hosted a high-profile Iftar dinner for senior government officials, business tycoons, and religious leaders to break the fast together during the holy month of Ramadhan. The dinner was hosted on February 21 at his residence in Kibuli, near Kampala.
The event attracted a diverse group of guests, including city tycoon Charles Mbire and his wife, Ambassador Charles Ssentongo, Buganda kingdom officials, High Court Judge Mary Kaitesi, and former Prime Minister John Patrick Amama Mbabazi.
Addressing the gathering, Mbabazi commended the Muslim community for observing Ramadhan and emphasised the spiritual and social significance of fasting.
“Ramadhan reminds us of the values we share, and gatherings like these are deeply meaningful,” Mbabazi said, highlighting the spiritual and communal significance of the occasion.
He underscored that fasting is not only an act of devotion but also a powerful expression of empathy.
“In a world that can sometimes feel divided, gatherings like these strengthen friendship, mutual respect, and understanding across communities. They remind us that our diversity is not a weakness but a source of richness and strength,” he said.
Mbabazi also reflected on Uganda’s history, noting that the restoration of religious harmony was one of the motivations behind the NRM liberation struggle of early 1980s.
“I feel proud of the religious harmony in our country, because that is one of the reasons we took up the struggle,” Mbabazi said.
“Whenever I visit my friends in Muslim countries experiencing conflict, I invite them to witness the harmony we enjoy here between our religions,” he added.
He also commended the Muslim community for its contributions to Uganda’s spiritual, social, educational, and economic life.
“I want to assure you that your efforts are valued and appreciated by the government,” he added.
Speaking at the event, Nakibinge encouraged losers in the just concluded elections to remain patient and prepare for future opportunities.
“This feast comes shortly after a hectic election. I congratulate those who were successful and urge those who were not to never lose hope — another chance will come,” he said.
Nakibinge also congratulated President Yoweri Museveni, who won the presidential race with 71.65 per cent, defeating seven other contenders, including runner-up Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu of the National Unity Platform (NUP), who garnered 2,741,238 votes.
On the significance of the Iftar dinner, Nakibinge emphasised that Ramadan is a time for sharing with friends, the poor, and the less privileged.
“I encourage Muslims to live by these virtues — devotion to God, reflection, spiritual rejuvenation, and building bridges to better know one another,” he said.
