Fulfil fourth pillar of Islam by giving back- Muslims urged

The House of Zakat and Waqf Uganda has embarked on a mission to give back to the Muslim community, especially during the holy month of Ramadan.

According to Sheikh Mahmood Kibaate, the CEO of House of Zakat and Waqf Uganda, giving to the needy is a fundamental aspect of Islam, particularly during Ramadan.

"Fasting the holy month of Ramadan is one of the pillars of Islam, and giving to the needy is a fulfilment that Muslims should prioritise," Sheikh Kibaate said. "This is the only pillar of Islam that requires every Muslim to help each other, based on what you have. And whoever gives to the needy is rewarded more."

Sheikh Kibaate applauded their partners from Malaysia for supporting their efforts in helping the needy, especially during Ramadan.

"We collect Zakah from our Muslim communities within Uganda and abroad, with the aim of helping the vulnerable and those who are sickly," he said.

The institution has called upon those willing to pay Zakat-al-Fitri to join their cause, as they strive to reach every part of the country.

"I urge the beneficiaries to use the food items accordingly and to pray for those who contribute, to ensure that poor Muslims receive food, especially during Ramadan," Sheikh Kibaate said.

Sheikh Ismail Lwasa, the Chairman of the Board at House of Zakat and Waqf, emphasized the importance of supporting the needy during Ramadan.

"The example we get from those who have contributed to support Muslim needy calls for more participation, to ensure that we entrust House of Zakat to support Muslims from different parts of the country," he said.

Sheikh Lwasa noted that the current scarcity of food is a reflection of the Islamic teaching, where people will hoard food for a year while others struggle.

"It's unfortunate that some people have sacks of food in their houses, yet there are others who are struggling to make ends meet, especially during Ramadan," he said.

Mr Hamza Namungo, the Head of Finance and Administration at House of Zakat and Waqf, expressed gratitude to Malaysia for supporting the majority of their initiatives.

"We do not have a lot of food in our stores, but we try our best to ensure that we cater to our Muslim community who are in need during Ramadan," he said.

The institution not only provides food relief but also conducts training for Muslim leaders and supports vulnerable Ugandans in accessing education.

"We already have 18 students on scholarships, and this year we have 15 who are enrolling on scholarships in Malaysia. We expect to add to the number in the years to come," Mr Namungo said.

One of the beneficiaries, Faisal from Lusaze Rubaga division, expressed his gratitude for the food items he received.

"Since I am disabled, these food items will last me for about two weeks without having to buy food at home. I stay with my siblings, and I think these food items will help us from spending money on buying daily food," he said.

The House of Zakat and Waqf Uganda has been conducting donations in various parts of the country, with the first phase taking place in Masaka, Lwengo, and Bukomansimbi. The institution plans to continue its efforts in supporting the Muslim community, especially during the holy month of Ramadan.