Nakibinge moved to tears at Katongole’s memorial prayers

MUKONO - Prince Kassim Nakibinge Kakungulu, the titular head of the Muslim community in the country, broke down in tears on April 1, 2025, at Nakasajja in Mukono district as he gave his address during the memorial prayers for the late Musa Katongole.

Nakibinge was moved by the difficulties and trials he has faced in implementing Katongole’s will, including being taken to court.

He revealed that resolving issues related to Katongole’s estate has not been an easy task, as he left behind a large family and significant wealth, sparking unnecessary disputes despite having a will.

“I must confess that I have found a lot of difficulties in implementing his (Katongole’s) will because he left a big family with huge wealth, but I thank God who has enabled us to deal with it,” Nakibinge said.

Katongole, who was the chairman of the defunct Uganda Taxi Operators and Drivers Association (UTODA), died in March 2021. He was Nakibinge’s confidant.

A hardworking businessman, Katongole contributed greatly to the development of the country and Islam in Uganda.

Nakibinge tasked his family members with ensuring that the memorial prayers are held annually.

“You should know that your role was not only to share his property but also to pray for him. Therefore, you should take the lead in organising this duwa (memorial prayers) because this is what he now wants from you. Otherwise, if you don’t, we shall do it,” Nakibinge said.

Some of Katongole's widows were in attendance. (Credit: Farooq Kasule)

He also castigated those who fought UTODA, stating that while they may have targeted Katongole as an individual in bringing it down, it did not affect him, as he died a wealthy man.

The Supreme Mufti, Sheikh Muhammad Shaban Galabuzi, urged Muslim businessmen to emulate the late Katongole, whom he praised for his generosity.

“We thank Allah who gave us Katongole because he had regard for others. Many Muslims were sponsored by him to make pilgrimage to Mecca without them knowing. He always gave to the cause of Islam wholeheartedly, and we pray that Allah grants him paradise because of his deeds that we continue to cherish,” Galabuzi said.

He noted that Katongole had a good heart and encouraged wealthier Muslims to follow his example.

“I want you to know that if you give to others, Allah multiplies your wealth,” Galabuzi said.

Sheikh Yasin Kiweewa, the director of dawa at the office of the Supreme Mufti, underscored the need for Muslims to give in the way of Allah, saying it is the only thing that will save them on the Day of Judgement.

Sheikh Hamid Tamusuzza, the main preacher at the memorial prayers, emphasised the importance of organising duwa, stating that it is what the dead require from the living.
Hajji Abbas Kasagga, the chairman of the organising committee, commended Nakibinge for guiding the Muslim community in the right direction.

“Your Royal Highness, we are very grateful to you because you have guided us very well, and we promise to always abide by your guidance,” Kasagga said.