In Soroti, Muslims urged on sacrifice, obedience and helping the needy

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Thousands of Muslims gathered at Swaria Prayer Grounds in Soroti City on Wednesday for special Eid al-Adha prayers, with religious leaders calling for generosity, unity, and renewed faith among believers.

The celebrations, also marked by animal sacrifice, reflected the deep spiritual significance of Eid al-Adha, one of the holiest festivals in Islam.

The day commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son, Ismael, in obedience to Allah before God provided a ram instead. 

The festival is widely regarded as a symbol of faith, sacrifice, obedience, and compassion toward the needy. 

Leading prayers at Swaria Grounds, Soroti County, Sheikh Yusuf Okiror reminded Muslims that Eid al-Adha is not only about slaughtering animals, but also sharing with the poor, neighbours, and family members.

“Prophet Ibrahim surrendered everything to Allah, including his only son, whom he got at an old age. Muslims should learn sacrifice, obedience, and helping the needy,” preached Sheikh Okiror.

He urged Muslims in Soroti and across Uganda to use the holiday to strengthen family bonds, promote peace, and support vulnerable people struggling with poverty.

Eid al-Adha is celebrated during the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah and coincides with the annual Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, one of the five pillars of Islam.

During the celebrations, Muslims who can afford to sacrifice animals such as goats, sheep, or cows, distribute the meat among relatives, friends, and the poor. 

Former Soroti County Sheikh Umar Hussain Ekabu said Muslims should emulate Prophet Ibrahim’s spirit of giving and humility.

“As believers, we should use this period to strengthen our relationship with Allah through charity and caring for one another because blessings come through giving,” he said.

The celebrations also attracted messages focusing on family values and discipline among Muslim women and youth.

Amina Among, a Muslim faithful who attended prayers at Swaria Grounds, urged fellow women to respect their husbands and uphold good morals during and after Eid celebrations.

She rallied women to promote harmony in families, saying Islam teaches patience, respect, and responsibility within marriage.

Across Soroti City, Muslims spent the day visiting relatives, sharing meals, and distributing meat to disadvantaged families as part of the Eid tradition.

Eid al-Adha, celebrations normally last three to four days and are characterised by communal prayers, charity, and family gatherings.