President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has sponsored 20 more Ugandan Muslims to perform Umrah. They were officially sent off on August 22, 2025, by Moses Byaruhanga, the Senior Presidential Advisor for Political Mobilization, at the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) headquarters in Old Kampala. This new group joins 50 others who were sponsored earlier in July.

The President’s support shows the government’s respect for the importance of religious practices. These pilgrims are part of a larger group traveling to Mecca, fully funded by the President.

“The President understands the important role of Imams and other Muslim leaders. This support helps Ugandans fulfill one of Islam’s five pillars and shows care for their spiritual needs,” Byaruhanga said.

Haji Abbas Muluubya Ssekyanzi, UMSC Secretary General, called the President’s gesture remarkable and the first of its kind.

“This support helps many complete a religious duty and shows great respect for the Muslim faith,” he said.

Sheikh Ali Juma Shiwuyu, Head of the Hajj Department at UMSC, confirmed that all travel plans are ready. The group will leave for Saudi Arabia on Monday, August 25, 2025. Senior officials from the State House, including Hajjat Mariam Namayanja Ssebagala, will attend the send-off.

This initiative is helping to empower Muslim leaders and strengthen faith communities across Uganda.