Africa-Press – Uganda. The first deputy Prime Minister, Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga who also doubles as Minister of East African Community Affairs, has assured the Muslim community that the government is developing special development programmes to help them assert their rights without fear of reprisal.
She was responding to concerns raised by Sheikh Ramadhan Mubajje, the Mufti of Uganda, regarding marginalization.
There have been concerns about Muslim youth missing out on various poverty-fighting programs.
Mubaje explained that several government programs, such as the Parish Development Model, which includes interest on loans, are contrary to the principles of Islam.
“We are unable to access these poverty alleviation programs because they involve an element of interest (Riba).
According to Islam, you are only allowed to charge for the services you provide on a loan, no profits,” he said.
He emphasised the need for the government to assist in mobilising Muslim youth to acquire skills and lead a better life.
“We request the government’s help in mobilizing youth so that they can gain skills and live a prosperous life,” he said.
Mubaje also called on young people to change their attitudes and mindset towards work if they want to fight poverty.
“We have the opportunity to work, so why should Muslim youth be ashamed of working?” he questioned.
Kadaga donated 20 million shillings in cash as seed money towards the establishment of the National Muslim Youth Council Savings and Credits Cooperative Society (SACCO) under the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC).
“I have been briefed about the strategic plan, and I think it is a good beginning.It may have taken over 50 years to create a strategic plan, but now you have one.
This is a good start,” she said.
She advised them to form SACCOs in line with Islamic teachings to combat poverty.
Kadaga handed over the money to the National Muslim Youth Council leaders, led by Chairperson Habib Mustafa, during the inaugural National Muslim Youth Day celebrations held at the UMSC headquarters.
“We have lawyers among you. Let them obtain the necessary documents for the Muslim Youth SACCO.Don’t rely on the one started by the Mufti,” she said while handing over an envelope containing the money.
Kadaga pledged her continued support to Muslim youth and the UMSC.
She praised Mufti Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje for mobilizing youth across the country.
“We were used to seeing Muslim youths fighting in mosques.I even witnessed a fight in my own district in Kamuli, and I didn’t know what to do since those involved were my people.I want to thank the Mufti for pacifying and bringing together these youths from different parts of the country to think and work today,” she said.
Kadaga promised to address some of the issues raised by the Mufti.
“I have taken note of the concerns raised by the Mufti and Professor Lubega and pledged to continue being your ally in the cabinet,” she assured.
For More News And Analysis About Uganda Follow Africa-Press
