Western Uganda gathering rekindles centuries-old unity among Muslim communities
By Issa Kigongo
In a gathering hailed as a “new beginning,” Muslims from across Western Uganda’s diverse cultural regions came together in a two-day event on December 25–26, reviving a spirit of unity and collaboration that had largely faded over the past century.
Hosted by the Runyakitara Dawa Agency, the event brought together members of the Bakiga, Batooro, Bakonjo, Banyoro, and Banyankore communities. It served not only as a symbolic reconnection but as a practical platform for dialogue, fellowship, and planning toward a shared future grounded in Islamic ethics.
The atmosphere was marked by shared meals, reflective discussions, and sessions on sustainable wealth creation framed within Islamic principles—emphasizing ethical livelihood, compassion, and communal responsibility.
“What we witnessed was more than an event—it was a historic beginning,” said Imam Matsiko Yahya MwineKaruuza, a founding member of Runyakitara Dawa.
“Muslims from all regions ate together, worked together, laughed together, and concluded together. This is the true meaning of unity in diversity, a gift from Allah that we must cherish and uphold.”
Imam Matsiko stressed the importance of mutual respect for differences and compassion for one another’s weaknesses, urging those present to build communities that reflect Islamic values while pursuing sustainable development.
The event also highlighted the importance of institutional support in fostering such initiatives. The administration of Mbarara University—including Secretary Mr. Kwatampola Vicent—along with the university security team led by Mr. Innocent and Mugisha Umar, and the Mbarara Police, provided logistical and security assistance, ensuring the gathering proceeded peacefully and smoothly.
Organizers view the event as a replicable model for social cohesion in ethnically diverse regions. It demonstrated that distinct communities can honor their unique identities while uniting around common faith-based goals.
“This is only the beginning,” Imam Matsiko affirmed. “By the will of Allah, even greater initiatives that unite our communities will continue to emerge, guiding us toward shared prosperity and enlightenment.”
The Runyakitara Dawa Agency, which focuses on Islamic education, community development, and ethical wealth creation across Western Uganda, described the gathering as part of its broader mission: to let history guide the present, inspire the future, and foster harmony for generations to come.
