Nurses and Midwives Union hosts Muslims for iftar dinner
Attendees were urged to unite and work together, regardless of their faith, to achieve economic security
Guests during the iftar dinner hosted by the Uganda Nurses and Midwives Union at their headquarters in Kampala. Photo by Wilfred Sanya
Wilfred Sanya
Journalist @New Vision
Muslims have been encouraged to support one another throughout the holy month of Ramadhan.
The Uganda Nurses and Midwives Union (UNMU) hosted an Iftar dinner for the Muslim community at Mulago Hospital, led by its Secretary, Annet Birungi.
During Ramadhan, various communities extend support to help Muslims observe the holy month successfully.
Workers’ Member of Parliament (MP) Abduhlu Byakatonda, speaking on behalf of the Muslim community, expressed gratitude to the Union for hosting them and for the donation of prayer mats.
“During the last days of fasting, which are considered the holiest, Almighty Allah first rewards those who help others during Ramadhan,” Byakatonda said.
He noted that the donation of prayer mats was timely, as prayer is the foundation of faith, and those who support worshippers will always receive blessings.
Byakatonda made these remarks during the dinner held at the Union headquarters at Mulago Hospital in Kampala. He commended the initiative, which came shortly after International Women’s Day celebrations, and admitted he had initially planned a similar event but found Birungi’s arrangements already well underway.
He urged the attendees to unite and work together, regardless of their faith, to achieve economic security.
“There are four directly elected MPs in the Union, and in the coming 2026 elections, one seat is specifically reserved for a woman. Support Birungi, who has all the necessary qualifications,” he said.
Workers’ MP Abdulhu Byakatonda addresses the congregation flanked by UNMU general secretary Annet Birungi (left).Photo by Wilfred Sanya
He recalled how, during his manifesto presentation, people doubted whether he could deliver. In the same way, he encouraged the Union members to back Birungi in her parliamentary bid.
"God loves hardworking people, so let us work hard and rise out of poverty," he added.
Birungi, an aspiring Workers' MP, thanked the Muslim community and other guests for attending. She said she grew up with the value of supporting others, regardless of their background.
"By hosting Muslims and giving them mats, I wanted to strengthen lasting friendships. If these mats are used in prayer, I, too, will receive blessings from God," she explained.
She added, “I came up with the idea of sharing a meal with Muslim members from different unions as a way of strengthening friendship and sharing God's love during the Holy Month. It was wonderful to share a meal with all the Muslims in the labour movement.”
Hassan Mudiba, a former director at the National Social Security Fund (NSSF), reflected on the Union’s mission of fostering unity and support among workers.
“There is a need to support every worker, regardless of their position. Even if you are an MP, always remember your role as a workers’ representative and strive to promote their interests,” Mudiba said.
He emphasised that everyone has a God-given talent and should use it to improve their economic status. He also encouraged Union members to support Birungi in the upcoming elections, acknowledging her dedication to the labour movement.
Dr Suleiman Ddungu told the gathering that a good leader is one who uplifts others.
“These are the leadership qualities Birungi has exhibited in the Union,” Dr Ddungu said.
He added that strong leaders bring people together and extend support to the needy, regardless of their background. He urged Union members to back Birungi in her parliamentary bid, recognising her ability to unite and advocate for workers.