Uganda’s President Museveni Expands Hajj Sponsorship to 150 Muslims, Strengthening Faith-Based Diplomacy
Kampala, Uganda — May 7, 2026
In a gesture of religious solidarity, Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has sponsored 150 Muslims for this year’s Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, marking an expansion from the traditional 100 slots offered annually. The initiative, fully funded by the government, aims to support Ugandan Muslims in fulfilling one of Islam’s five pillars—a spiritual obligation for believers capable of undertaking the journey.
A Historic Increase in Government Support
This year’s Hajj delegation, set to depart on May 7 and May 12, 2026, represents a 50% increase in state-sponsored pilgrims, reflecting President Museveni’s long-standing commitment to interfaith harmony. The selection process, overseen by the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) in collaboration with State House, ensured transparency by allowing regional Muslim leaders to nominate eligible candidates.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony in Kampala, Moses Byaruhanga, Senior Presidential Advisor on Political Mobilization, emphasized the program’s non-discriminatory nature, stating:
“This Hajj offer is not discriminatory. All eligible Muslims, irrespective of their political background, can benefit because this is a national program.”
Byaruhanga also highlighted the Shs 3 billion (approximately $800,000 USD) allocated for the pilgrimage, with each participant receiving Shs 21 million (around $5,500 USD) to cover travel, accommodation, and other expenses. He warned pilgrims against unauthorized fund solicitations, ensuring all costs were pre-covered by the government.
Economic Empowerment and Faith-Based Initiatives
Beyond Hajj sponsorship, President Museveni’s administration has introduced Islamic banking alternatives to the Parish Development Model (PDM), a controversial savings scheme criticized for its interest-based structure (riba). The new initiative, funded by state injections into Muslim-led SACCOs (Savings and Credit Cooperatives), aims to provide interest-free financial tools for economic empowerment.
Byaruhanga encouraged Muslims to invest in white goats and sheep, which are in high demand in Saudi Arabia during Eid Al-Adha, suggesting a lucrative market for livestock exports.
Diplomatic and Social Implications
The Hajj sponsorship aligns with Uganda’s broader strategy of faith-based diplomacy, reinforcing ties with the global Muslim community. Haji Faruk Kirunda, Special Presidential Assistant for Press and Mobilization, urged pilgrims to adhere strictly to Saudi Arabia’s pilgrimage protocols, warning:
“There’s a difference between tourists and pilgrims. You shouldn’t go there to be a tourist—follow the rules to avoid legal trouble.”
Kirunda also stressed personal and communal responsibility, advising pilgrims to maintain hygiene and avoid actions that could tarnish Uganda’s reputation abroad.
Community Reactions: Gratitude and Hope
Pilgrims expressed profound gratitude for the opportunity. Ms. Mayimuna Nababi, a beneficiary from Mukono District, shared:
“I didn’t expect this. Allah has made it possible for me to fulfill the fifth pillar of Islam.”
Sheikh Kassim Kigozi, a long-time Hajj aspirant from Butambala, noted:
“Last year, I received an Umrah offer. Now, Hajj—all thanks to President Museveni. May Allah bless him.”
Travel agencies, including Tawakal Travels and Anwaary Travels, confirmed their roles in facilitating the pilgrimage, with 52 and 38 pilgrims, respectively, under their care. Both firms praised the government’s 5-star service standards for the delegation.
Broader Context: Uganda’s Interfaith Engagement
President Museveni’s support for Hajj is part of a broader pattern of state-backed religious initiatives, including Christian and Muslim community programs. Critics, however, have raised concerns about political favoritism in beneficiary selection, though officials insist the process remains transparent and merit-based.
As Uganda prepares for the 2026 Hajj season, the expanded sponsorship underscores the government’s role in bridging faith and governance, while pilgrims embark on a journey of spiritual fulfillment and national pride.
Key Takeaways: ✅ 150 Ugandan Muslims sponsored for Hajj 2026—50% increase from previous years. ✅ Shs 3 billion ($800K USD) allocated, with Shs 21M per pilgrim covering all expenses. ✅ Islamic banking alternatives introduced to replace interest-based PDM savings. ✅ Strict adherence to pilgrimage rules emphasized to avoid legal issues in Saudi Arabia. ✅ Pilgrims express gratitude, citing economic and spiritual benefits of the program.
For further details, contact: Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) Official UMSC Statement Government of Uganda – State House Presidential Press Releases