President Museveni Sends Additional 50 Muslims to Mecca, Each Given UGX 1.8 Million in Pocket Money

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has once again demonstrated his continued support for the Muslim community by sponsoring another group of 50 Ugandan Muslims for Umrah, the sacred pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia.

Each of the selected pilgrims has also received UGX 1.8 million (approximately USD 500) as pocket money to cater for personal expenses during the journey.

The beneficiaries—comprising Imams, Sheikhs, and Sheikats from across the country—were officially flagged off at a colorful ceremony held on Thursday, July 31, 2025, at Hotel Africana in Kampala.

The event was presided over by Senior Presidential Advisor for Political Mobilization, Mr. Moses Byaruhanga, who delivered the President’s message of goodwill and unity.

This latest batch of pilgrims is part of an ongoing initiative by President Museveni to enable Ugandan Muslims to fulfill their religious obligations regardless of their financial status.

Mr. Byaruhanga emphasized that the entire pilgrimage, including travel, accommodation, and upkeep, has been fully funded by the President.

“No one should ask you for money. Everything has been paid for by President Museveni. Each of you is also receiving UGX 1.8 million to help with your personal needs while in Mecca,” Mr. Byaruhanga said.

He added that the selection process was conducted transparently by local Muslim leadership and warned against any form of corruption or favoritism. The initiative, he said, is aimed at strengthening religious harmony and ensuring inclusive development.

Mr. Byaruhanga also recalled that the idea of annual Hajj and Umrah sponsorships was first proposed in 2011 during a meeting between Kampala Imams and the President. The program was revived through the efforts of Hajjat Madina Nsereko, who recently reminded the President of his earlier pledge.

In addition to sponsoring pilgrimages, President Museveni has announced plans to inject UGX 100 million into Imam-led SACCOs in 125 districts to economically empower Muslim leaders and promote Islamic-compliant financial services. This move seeks to uplift religious leaders who often serve without regular income.

Hajjat Mariam Namayanja, Special Presidential Assistant in charge of monitoring the Parish Development Model (PDM), praised the President for his consistent efforts to support the Muslim community and ensure they are not left behind in national programs.

This latest gesture has been widely welcomed by Muslim leaders and faithful as a sign of President Museveni’s unwavering commitment to religious unity, inclusivity, and spiritual development in Uganda.