Muslim Clerics are calling for animal donations by well-wishers ahead of Wednesday, June 28, 2023, Eid al-Adha celebrations.

Sheikh Haidar Kiiza, the Vice Chairperson of Humanitarian Efforts and Relief (Hear-Uganda) revealed that, some of the well-wishers have already pledged to donate over 8,000 animals across the country as part of the annual celebrations.

Eid al-Adha is highly respected and commemorated by Muslims because it follows the completion of the annual Hajj pilgrimage, at the time of Qurbani (sacrifice).

According to the Quran, at the very point of sacrifice, Allah replaced Ismail with a ram, which was to be slaughtered in place of his son. This command from Allah was a test of Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness and commitment to obey Allah’s command, without question. Therefore, Eid al-Adha means the festival of sacrifice.

Sheikh Kiiza noted that, unlike last year, the number of animals to be slaughtered has dropped due to economic hardships caused by Covid-19 pandemic and earthquake in Turkey which affected financial flow from their donors hence the appeal for more donations.

However, Imam Bashir Tumwesigye said that animals are slaughtered and meat shared with community members and the needy before prayers are conducted.

“It should be noted that the animals are slaughtered before the Edi prayers are conducted. The meat is therefore shared with the community and the needy,” Imam Tumwesigye said.

He added that it has been a norm to get these animal donations from donors and government to help the Muslims across the country celebrate Eid al-Adha.

According to Islamic faith, Eid al-Adha is a feast of sacrifice in commemoration of Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to obey Allah’s command to sacrifice his son Ismail.