Mufti of Uganda Mubaje urges UCC to ensure responsible use of digital platforms

Mufti of Uganda Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje has urged the Uganda Communication Commission (UCC) to ensure responsible use of the digital platforms, especially the social media, which he says has become a source of misinformation and affronts.

Mubaje made the call in a speech delivered on his behalf by Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) secretary general Hadji Abbas Muluubya during an iftar (breaking the fast) dinner hosted by the Ministry of Information, Communication, Technology (ICT) and National Guidance at the National ICT hub in Nakawa on March 10, 2026.

Muslims with the ministry were joined by select members of the Muslim community to celebrate the feast of fasting as the holy month of Ramadhan comes to an end.

Among the notable guests at the feast were Inspector General of Government (IGG) Aisha Naluzze Batala and Uganda Media Centre (UMC) executive director Allan Kasujja.

Mubaje argued that UCC bears the duty of ensuring that the digital platforms operate responsibly. He said technology should be used to promote the truth, respect and constructive dialogue rather than divisionism or misinformation.

“Therefore, the development of information in communication technology should always be used or guided by values that promote the dignity of individuals and strengthen the moral fabric of our communities,” Mubaje said.

Mubaje, however, commended the efforts of the ICT ministry in advancing communication, innovation and access to information across the country. He observed that in today’s digital age, communication technologies play a vital role in promoting development, education and social cohesion.

“These tools can bring people together, promoting understanding and supporting national progress when used responsibly,” Mubaje said.  

Mubaje also commended UCC for the collaboration in the broadcasting sector, which he said has enabled UMSC institutions like Bilal Television, Radio Bilal and Radio Masaba to serve communities with educational, religious and developmental programmes.

Mubaje further thanked the ICT ministry for organising the iftar dinner, noting that it reflected the spirit of unity, mutual respect and cooperation within the country.

“The holy month of Ramadhan is a period of reflection, devotion, patience and compassion. As we break our fast together, we are reminded that beyond our diverse backgrounds, we share common values of peace, dignity and solidarity,” Mubaje said.

Mubaje urged the muslim community to use this holy month of Ramadhan to renew their commitment to national unity.

ICT ministry permanent secretary Dr Aminah Zawedde urged the Muslim workers in all government ministries and departments to maintain the professional excellence exhibited during the holy month of Ramadhan. (Credit: Alfred Ochwo)

Call for unity

Information minister Dr Chris Baryomunsi called for strengthened unity between Muslims and Christians across the globe.

“There are many commonalities between Islam and Christianity, and one of them is fasting. We are all in the period of fasting. So, we are not fundamentally different, and therefore, there is no reason for us to be enemies. So, my message is that we should remain united,” Baryomunsi said.

Preaching at the event, Sheikh Mohamed Abdiweli urged Muslims to forgive each other if they also want to be forgiven by God.

“As human beings, we have a lot of differences, but we should forgive each other. If you don’t forgive each other, you will live with that hatred, and it will, in the long run, affect your health,” Abdiweli said.

Without mentioning the names, Abdiweli noted that some people have gone to the extent of avoiding functions in the presence of their presumed enemies because of hatred, which he said contradicts the Islamic teachings.

ICT ministry permanent secretary Dr Aminah Zawedde urged the Muslim workers in all government ministries and departments to maintain the professional excellence exhibited during the holy month of Ramadhan.

“Let us ensure that our commitment to our agenda remains unwavering. Let us support one another at our workplaces. Let our workplaces remain a space of empathy and high productivity,” Zawedde said.

Zawedde also implored the wider muslim community to uphold the behaviour exhibited during the holy month of Ramadan.

“We shouldn’t go back to our old days because fasting is supposed to make us better people,” Zawedde said.

Muslims commenced fasting on February 18, and they are now in the last ten days of the 29 or 30-day fasting period.

Muslims end fasting with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, which is expected to fall either on Thursday or Friday next week.

Fasting the holy month of Ramadhan is one of the five pillars of Islam.

Other pillars include declaration of faith, performing the five ritual daily prayers, alms-giving and performing pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in their lifetime.