Muslims who are set to travel to Mecca display their packages
HABARI DAILY I Kampala, Uganda I Fifty Ugandan Muslims who include several Imams, Sheikhs, and Sheikats, are set to embark on a pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, courtesy of State House
According to a recently issued press statement, the pilgrim have been fully sponsored by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. The pilgrims were reportedly, drawn from different parts of the country, , selected through local Muslim leadership structures.
Umrah is often referred to as the ‘lesser’ or ‘minor’ pilgrimage. It is an act of worship undertaken by Muslims and involves pilgrims traveling to the blessed city of Mecca.
The flag-off ceremony, held at Hotel Africana in Kampala on Thursday, July 31, 2025, marked a significant moment in the continued support by the President towards the Muslim community in Uganda.
The event was presided over by Senior Presidential Advisor for Political Mobilization, Moses Byaruhanga, who delivered President Museveni’s message to the pilgrims.
He urged the Muslim community to continue praying for peace and prosperity in Uganda, noting that President Museveni remains committed to fostering unity and development across all religious and cultural divides.
Byaruhanga reminded the congregation that the President’s generosity is grounded in his desire to ensure all Ugandans, regardless of faith, can access meaningful spiritual and economic opportunities.
A cross section of Muslims who are set to travel to Mecca
He noted that the selection process is managed transparently by the Muslim community itself and cautioned against any attempts at corruption or solicitation of money from the beneficiaries.
“No one should ask you for money, since all costs have been covered. We are one, whether from Old Kampala or Kibuli sects, and we should focus on unity,” Byaruhanga stated.
“In 2011, I arranged a meeting between Kampala Imams and the President. They requested annual Hajj sponsorships. Although the initiative stalled for a while, it was revived recently through the efforts of Hajjat Madina Nsereko, who reminded the President of the commitment,” he noted.
He further noted that in earlier years, around Shs 2.5 billion was used to send about 100 people to Mecca, but the new arrangement allows for annual sponsorships on a smaller, more manageable scale to ensure continuity and inclusiveness.
Each beneficiary received a presidential travel package and an upkeep allowance of $ 500 ( 1.8 million), delivered at the ceremony. The financial support is intended to cover personal expenses during the pilgrimage to Mecca.
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