Mufti Reopens Newly Rebuilt Bukhumwa Mosque in Mbale

The Mufti of Uganda, His Eminence Dr Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, has officially reopened the newly rebuilt Bukhumwa Lower Mosque in Wabukhasa Village, Bumbobi Sub-county, Mbale District. The ceremony, held on Friday, November 6, 2026, brought together Muslim leaders, Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) officials, government representatives, and members of the local community. The mosque has a rich history dating back to 1920 when Islam was first introduced to the area.

According to Sheikh Ali Juma Shiuyo, the UMSC Secretary for Hajj and Umrah and project director, the mosque rebuilding works commenced on June 16, 2026. He explained that the project aimed to strengthen the Muslim community's religious infrastructure. The rebuilding efforts were made possible through contributions from donors in the United Arab Emirates, Syria, and Iraq. The Mufti commended Shiuyo for his integrity and commitment to community development, enabling him to mobilize resources for projects benefiting rural communities.

During his address, Sheikh Mubaje urged Muslim leaders and charitable organizations to uphold transparency and accountability in managing development funds. He warned that some individuals had abused the trust placed in them, citing cases of mismanaged projects. The Mufti emphasized the importance of ensuring that projects are implemented according to their budgets and deliver the intended benefits to communities. He also reminded Muslims of the central place of faith, knowledge, and education in the development of their communities.

The Mufti highlighted the significance of mosques beyond their physical structures, describing them as important demonstrations of faith. He referenced the first revelation received by Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), which emphasized the importance of knowledge in understanding and practicing Islam. Sheikh Mubaje encouraged Muslim parents to prioritize their children's education in both Islamic and secular studies, preparing them to become responsible members of society.

Sheikh Mubaje also called upon Imams to register themselves and their respective mosques on the UMSC@360 online platform, which would provide a basis for accessing opportunities under the government's SACCO programme. He expressed gratitude to donors who contributed towards rebuilding the mosque and urged Muslims in the area to complement their efforts by making personal contributions. The Mufti encouraged the faithful to preserve the mosque as a center of daily worship and spiritual growth.

The ceremony was attended by several UMSC officials, District Kadhis, and government representatives, including Mbale District Resident Commissioner Ismail Ntege and Bumbobi Sub-county LCIII Chairperson Nathan David Musisa. Following the official reopening, Sheikh Mubaje joined the congregation for Friday prayers, during which Sheikh Yusuf Ali Bulafu delivered the main sermon. The event marked a significant milestone in the restoration of a historic mosque and its continued role in the community.

Key points from the event include the official reopening of the Bukhumwa Lower Mosque, the emphasis on transparency and accountability in managing development funds, and the importance of education in Islamic and secular studies. The Mufti's call for Muslim leaders to register on the UMSC@360 platform and the community's efforts to maintain the mosque as a center of worship and spiritual growth were also highlighted. The event was a testament to the community's commitment to preserving their faith and cultural heritage.

Key points

• The rebuilt Bukhumwa Lower Mosque was officially reopened by Mufti Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje on November 6, 2026.
• The mosque has a rich history dating back to 1920 when Islam was first introduced to the area.
• The Mufti emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in managing development funds and encouraged Muslim parents to prioritize their children's education.