Muslims have been tipped on Unity and cohesion at the Islamic Unity Week conference, held at Muteesa I Royal University.
The event Organized by the Cultural Consulate of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in collaboration with several Ugandan universities, aimed to commemorate the birth of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and promote unity among Muslim faithfuls based on humility, empathy, and solidarity.
The event was graced by esteemed guests, including H.E. Amokrane Mourad, Ambassador of Algeria; H.E. Dr. Tamouh Moustafa, Syrian honorary consul; Mr. Ali Mohammad, deputy Ambassador of Saharawi Democratic Arab Republic; Mr. Bilal Mohsin, deputy High Commissioner from the High Commission for Pakistan; and Mr. Mohsen Aghaloo, first secretary and representative of the Iranian Ambassador.
In his keynote address, Prof. Adam Ssebyala cautioned Muslim leaders against seeking solutions in Christian countries, reminding them that Prophet Muhammad left behind valuable knowledge and wisdom, such as writing letters, tolerance, love, peace, and dialogue.
Dr. Tamouh Moustafa stressed the importance of unity as emphasized in the holy Quran, highlighting the need for Muslims to come together regardless of their backgrounds. He noted that the enemies of Islam use ignorance and illiteracy to divide Muslims, fueling endless wars
Dr. Faridah Nakazibwe Kyambadde, representing the Associate Professor Madinah Nabukeera Sebyala, Director of Islamic University in Uganda Females campus, presented Prophet Muhammad as a model for modern society, advocating for peaceful coexistence. She encouraged participants to emulate the Prophet’s exemplary character, compassion and wisdom.
Sheikh Yusuf Mulumba Mayirikiti, Director of Quran and Itra Association, emphasized the need for Muslims to rely on pure Islamic values and avoid imposing interpretations on others, warning against the strategies of enemies seeking to divide Muslims.
Hon. Asuman Basalirwa, chairman of the Muslim parliamentary forum and member of Parliament for Bugiri municipality, urged participants to reflect on Prophet Muhammad’s teachings and strive for unity to challenge aggressors. He condemned the negligence of the Muslim world regarding tragedies like the recent Lebanese pagers incident and the ongoing genocide in Gaza.
“The Muslim world must wake up to its responsibilities,” Hon. Basalirwa emphasized. “We must unite to address the injustices facing our brothers and sisters around the world.”
In his message, the Iranian Ambassador highlighted the importance of unity within the Muslim world, citing the Holy Quran’s command to cling to the divine rope and avoid division. He emphasized the need for cohesion and solidarity to preserve collective interests and safeguard the well-being of the Islamic Ummah.
Abdollah Abbasi, the Cultural Chancellor of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Uganda emphasized that Peace, empathy, and friendship are the values of true followers of the pure Islamic school of thought for Prophet Muhammad and the manifestation of the unity of Muslims.