Supreme Mufti urges legacy of service

By Hajji Ntale Yunus

The Supreme Mufti of Uganda, Sheikh Muhammad Shaban Galabuzi, has called on Muslims and all Ugandans to leave behind a meaningful legacy that will benefit future generations. He made the remarks during a special dua ceremony at Buswabulongo in Kiboga, commemorating the 10th anniversary of the passing of former Supreme Mufti Sheikh Zubair Sowedi Kayongo.

Sheikh Kayongo, who served as the first Supreme Mufti of Uganda, was remembered as a devout and selfless leader who dedicated his life to the promotion of Islam and education. He passed away in April 2015 in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, where he had traveled to attend a conference of Islamic scholars.

Speaking at the event, Sheikh Galabuzi emphasized the importance of leaving behind a positive impact.

“A person should have something they do in this world that others can continue, something that speaks for them even after they are gone,” Sheikh Galabuzi said, praising Sheikh Kayongo’s contributions to Islamic education and community welfare.

He highlighted Sheikh Kayongo’s commitment to teaching children without demanding fees, ensuring that no student was denied education due to poverty.

“He taught children without charging them, and he never expelled a student for failing to pay. He understood that education was a right, not a privilege,” Sheikh Galabuzi recalled.

The Supreme Mufti also expressed concern over the misuse of authority, citing the case of Sheikh Erias Kigozi, who allegedly used security forces to harass Sheikh Abdul Hakim Mulondo, an official in the Mufti’s office.

“It is wrong for those entrusted with power to use it to oppress others,” he stated, urging justice and accountability.

Ambassador Habibu Kajimu, a former student of Sheikh Kayongo, praised the late Mufti for his unwavering efforts in defending Islam during challenging times.

However, he expressed disappointment over divisions within Sheikh Kayongo’s family, urging them to reconcile and uphold their father’s legacy.

The Iranian Ambassador to Uganda, Masjid Saffar, reaffirmed his country’s support for the school founded by Sheikh Kayongo, emphasizing the importance of education in national development.

In a message delivered by Desire Muhooza, daughter of General Salim Saleh, President Yoweri Museveni announced a donation of Ugx 300 million for the renovation of Buswabulongo Islamic School, which Sheikh Kayongo established.