Uganda’s top Muslim cleric, Sheikh Shaban Ramadan Mubaje, has raised concern over the consistently low number of Ugandan Muslims undertaking the pilgrimage to Mecca, despite the country’s capacity and support from government authorities. Speaking at the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) headquarters during a farewell event for 135 pilgrims, Sheikh Mubaje said Uganda is failing to meet even a fraction of its allocated slots by Saudi Arabia.
Based on Saudi Arabia’s quota of 1,000 pilgrims per million citizens, Uganda, with a population of over 45 million, is entitled to 45,000 slots annually. However, the Mufti lamented that the country has struggled to fill even 10 percent of this allocation. He attributed this shortfall to neglect by capable Muslims who ignore the obligation of Haj, one of the five fundamental pillars of Islam.
He expressed frustration that even affluent individuals are seeking free pilgrimage sponsorships rather than funding their own journey. “It is disturbing to get calls from people with high salaries and expansive property asking for free Haj offers. Someone with vast land holdings can’t spare just a portion to fulfil this religious duty,” Sheikh Mubaje remarked.
The Mufti also faulted local Muslim leaders for their failure to mobilize and educate communities about the importance of Haj. His comments followed a report from UMSC Secretary for Haj and Umrah, Sheikh Ali Shiuyo, who noted that some districts had sent no pilgrims at all this year. Bugisu Muslim District registered the highest number of pilgrims at 23, followed by Iganga with 21.
Among the travellers, Amina Nambogwe from Iganga was recognized for her dedication, having begun saving for the journey in 2016. Though she had not completed her payments, Sheikh Mubaje personally directed her inclusion for her long-term commitment.
The Mufti extended gratitude to President Yoweri Museveni for sponsoring 100 Ugandan pilgrims this year. He also issued a stern warning against fraudsters exploiting prospective pilgrims with fake travel packages, calling for legal action against them. “Haj is a sacred act of worship, not a business opportunity. Those who prey on people’s faith should be brought to justice,” he said.
Hadji Abas Muluubya Ssekyanzi, the UMSC Secretary General, echoed the Mufti’s concerns, urging pilgrims to act as ambassadors of Islam and the Muslim leadership in Uganda. He cited incidents of fraud in Mubende, where several would-be pilgrims were duped by an unregistered Haj firm and will not travel this year despite having made payments.
Despite the challenges, the send-off event at Old Kampala marked a hopeful moment for the selected pilgrims, even as the broader Muslim community is urged to reflect on the spiritual and communal significance of fulfilling the Haj obligation.
