Ssebintu returns as UMSC Halal director

By Ahmed Idriss

Sheikh Muniru Ssebintu has returned as Director of Halal at the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC), following his reappointment on a two-year contract.

Ssebintu, who retired from the position in March 2023, takes over from Sheikh Abdu-Karim Abdallah Katamba, who recently became Imam of Makerere University Mosque.

The UMSC National Management Committee approved Ssebintu’s reappointment during its weekly meeting on Tuesday. He formally took over the directorate on October 20, with Katamba handing him the office seal and a report detailing the department’s activities and ongoing programmes.

The handover was witnessed by Katureebe Yaziidi, the UMSC Secretary for Administration and Human Resource, alongside other staff members, including the directorate’s administrator, Miss Hajara Namuddu, and Haj Isah Shaban.

During his previous tenure, Ssebintu was involved in efforts to strengthen halal standards, particularly in the meat industry. He also advocated for a certificate course to equip butchers with skills in proper animal slaughter and meat handling.

The Directorate of Halal is responsible for certifying and accrediting halal products, services, manufacturers and suppliers in accordance with Islamic requirements, as provided for under the UMSC Constitution.

Speaking at the handover, Katamba thanked the Mufti and UMSC management for the support he received during his time as director.

Ssebintu pledged to continue implementing the directorate’s programmes and build on initiatives already underway.