Uganda National Mosque makes 10 years

Jun 08, 2017

“It is among the top tourist attractions in Kampala."

RELIGION | ISLAM

It is exactly 10 years since the Uganda National Mosque, formerly Gaddafi Mosque, was officially opened on June 8, 2007.

The mosque was built with funding from Col Muammar Gadaffi, the late president of Libya and the World Islamic Call Society (WICS).

In 2013, the mosque was renamed the National Mosque following the death of Libyan leader Col Muamar Gadaffi, as the the new Libyan administration was reportedlyt reluctant to rehabilitate the mosque under the old name.

Located in Old Kampala, the mosque also serves as the headquarters of the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC).

The Mufti residence, Mufti chambers, his deputy and the secretary general offices are also located within the same compound with the mosque.

Because of its location at one of the seven hills of Kampala, it has the best views for Kampala town.

The mosque also boasts of a completely built tower from which tourists can have a great view of Kampala City on top of this tower.

"It is among the top tourist attractions in Kampala," says Hajj Nsereko Mutumba, the spokesperson of the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council.

Several tourists flock the mosque on a daily basis to have a feel of the mosque and to enjoy the beautiful view of the city.

The grand structure has a capacity seating of over 15,000 worshippers and can hold another 1,100 in the gallery, while the terrace will cater for another 3,500.

The mosque also has facilities for conferences, meetings so that as people come to pray to Allah, others can come to meet for other purposes and enable the place to raise revenue for maintenance.

Former Ugandan leader Idi Amin had started on building this mosque after securing support from Saudi Arabia, but was overthrown and the project stalled.

Thanks to Gaddafi and Libya, Ugandans can pride in this beautiful mosque.

 

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