Eid: Muslims in Kyankwanzi urged to support the vulnerable

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Families and friends across Kyankwanzi district joined Muslims worldwide in marking Eid al-Adha with prayers, acts of charity and calls for unity, as religious leaders urged believers to support vulnerable communities and promote peaceful coexistence.

Thousands of Muslims gathered at mosques and open prayer grounds across the district on May 27, 2026, for early morning prayers, with clerics using the occasion to encourage compassion, responsible celebrations and national unity.

Speaking shortly after prayers, Sheikh Sulaiman Kiwanuka Salongo called upon Muslims to celebrate responsibly and support the needy during the festive season.

“Eid is a time for sacrifice, love, and helping those who are less fortunate in our communities,” Sheikh Sulaiman said.

He also urged Muslims to pray for the country, especially Parliament and national leaders, so they can effectively serve Ugandans.

“We should continue praying to Allah to guide our leaders and protect the country from diseases such as Ebola,” he added.

The district Khadhi further appealed to leaders to serve all people equally, regardless of religion, tribe or political affiliation. He also asked the newly sworn-in district chairperson to prioritise residents of Kyankwanzi when offering district jobs.

“Leaders must work in unity and put the interests of the people first,” Sheikh Sulaiman emphasised.

He encouraged Muslims to embrace government poverty alleviation programmes such as the Parish Development Model and Emyooga to improve household incomes and fight poverty.

During the celebrations, many families shared meals and exchanged gifts, while others distributed food and clothing to vulnerable people in the community.

Imam Dilisa Kato encouraged fellow Muslims to continue observing important Islamic days and remain faithful to Islamic teachings.

Meanwhile, the chairperson of Kikolimbo Mosque, Jafali Kasolo, urged Muslims who are financially able to fulfil the Islamic practice of sacrifice.

“Those who have the capacity should sacrifice and also participate in activities that develop the Muslim community and the country,” Kasolo said.

At Kikolimbo Mosque, prayers were led by Solaiman Sempila, who described Eid al-Adha as one of the most significant celebrations in Islam.

“This day teaches Muslims about obedience, sacrifice, and faith in Allah,” Sempila noted.

He also encouraged parents to raise their children according to Islamic values and teachings.

Business activity increased in various trading centres across the district as traders sold livestock, clothes and food items ahead of the celebrations. Transport operators also reported heavy travel as people returned to their villages to celebrate with relatives.

Eid al-Adha commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice in obedience to God and is marked worldwide through prayers, charity and community gatherings.

“Today reminds us about sacrifice, faith, and helping others,” one resident said during the celebrations.