Supreme Mufti partners with Kabaka foundation to fight cancer

By Jafar Mugera

The Supreme Mufti, Sheikh Muhammad Shaban Galabuzi wants the government to come up with stern measures to combat the proliferation of quackery within the healthcare sector. According to the cleric, quacks are major cause of misinformation and misdiagnosis of health conditions.

“Unscrupulous individuals are exploiting vulnerable citizens by advertising fake healthcare services on radios and TVs, luring them with cheaper options,” Sheikh Galabuzi said. Speaking last week at the launch of a health awareness camp organized by his office in partnership with the Uganda Cancer Institute (UCI) and the Kabaka Foundation at Kibuli Mosque near Kampala, Galabuzi highlighted the devastating impact of prostate cancer in his community.

“Prostate cancer claimed many lives in our community due to lack of information. Regrettably, many still suffer in silence, unaware of treatment options,” he said. He emphasized the importance of seeking proper medical information and care from

professional medical practitioners. “This is the reason why we partnered with UCI and the Kabaka Foundation to provide our communities with essential health information,” he said. Statistics at UCI show that cancer cases in the country have more than doubled over the past decade. By 2015, the cancer institute had recorded 3,500 cases, but over the years, this number has surged to approximately 7,500 new cases.

During the health camp at Kibuli, preliminary screenings yielded alarming results. Out of the 184 men who turned up on the first day, two tested positive for prostate cancer. Additionally, four women were found to have susceptible cases of breast cancer, and two tested positive for cervical cancer.

“Some of the cases we identified had previously tested positive for cancer but were living in denial. We had to sit and engage one gentleman, counseling him to accept his condition and seek treatment,” said Dinah Kebirungi, a public

health specialist at Uganda Cancer Institute. “Treatment for cancer is very expensive. We want to reach a point where we can prevent it,” she added. Sheikh Yasin Kiweewa, Secretary for Da’awah in the Supreme Mufti’s office, emphasized the goal of health awareness campaigns, dispelling the misconception that cancer is incurable. “Cancer’s perceived incurability stems from lack of information. We are here to inform you that early detection leads to effective treatment and potential cure.”

He drew inspiration from a hadith where Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is reported to have said; “Allah has sent down both the disease and the cure, and He has appointed a cure for every disease.” By educating communities, the Supreme Mufti’s office aims to shift the narrative and promote hope for cancer patients. This is part of the Tubeere Balamu community campaign that the office, through its directorate of education and social affairs, intends to carry across the country in partnership with the Kabaka Foundation.