The First Deputy Premier and Minister of East African Community Affairs, Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga, has pledged a substantial sum of UGX 20 million to kickstart the establishment of the National Muslim Youth Council Savings and Credits Cooperative Society (Sacco) under the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC).
During the inaugural National Muslim Youth Day celebrations at the UMSC headquarters, Kadaga presented the donation to the leaders of the National Muslim Youth Council, with Habib Mustafa, their Chairperson, leading the proceedings. The contribution was made in response to a request by Habib Mustafa, who sought support for the Majilis Sacco, which operates under the UMSC.
However, Kadaga emphasized the importance of Muslim youths operating an independent Sacco, rather than relying on the one established by the council. She stated, “I am making a donation of 20 million Shillings as seed money to help you start your own Sacco so that we can hold you accountable. Don’t hide under the one started by the Mufti,” as she handed over an envelope containing the funds.
In her capacity as the representative of President Yoweri Museveni, who attended the event as the chief guest, Kadaga also expressed her commitment to supporting the Muslim youths and the UMSC. She commended Mufti Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje for his efforts in mobilizing youth across the nation.
Kadaga acknowledged the transformative impact of the Mufti’s work, saying, “We were accustomed to seeing Muslim youths in conflicts within mosques. I even witnessed a dispute in my own district, Kamuli, and didn’t know what to do since all those involved were my people. I want to thank the Mufti for pacifying and bringing together these youths from various parts of the country to think and work together.”
She also praised Professor Muhammad Lubega, the UMSC national chairperson, for the formulation of a strategic plan for the council. Kadaga remarked, “Although it has taken over 50 years to establish a strategic plan, now you have one, and this is a positive step. You are on the right path towards progress.”
Furthermore, Kadaga assured the audience of her commitment to addressing the issues raised by the Mufti and Professor Lubega, promising to be an ally within the cabinet to champion their concerns.
The Mufti, Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, earlier in the day, urged the government to intensify investment in skilling programs aimed at helping young people acquire the necessary skills to combat unemployment in the country. He emphasized the importance of youth entrepreneurship and self-sufficiency.
He shared a lesson from the teachings of Prophet Muhammad, which encouraged Muslim youths to embrace hard work rather than relying on handouts. He quoted the Prophet’s wisdom, “A strong Muslim is more beloved to Allah than a weak Muslim,” emphasizing the value of self-reliance and hard work for the betterment of the community.
