His Eminence Sheikh Obilan Abubakar Umar Regional Assistant to the Mufti (RAM) for Teso-Karamoja Muslim Region has urged Muslim parents to take greater responsibility in nurturing morally upright children.
During his closing of 4th AMDEF Annual Ramadhan Convention held at Agaitha Modern Schools in Mukongoro, Kumi District, Sheikh Obilan expressed concern over the increasing cases of high school dropouts, early pregnancies, and premature marriages, issues he attributes to a growing neglect among parents.
He stressed that parents should not only prioritize their children’s education but also instill strong religious and cultural values, which in turn bolster socio-economic progress.
The convention, organized by the Ateker Muslim Development Foundation (AMDEF) and attended by over 500 Muslim women across Teso and Karamoja, focused on empowering women for sustainable development.
In addition to his call for enhanced parental responsibility, Sheikh Obilan emphasized the importance of hard work and the teaching of diverse survival skills to combat deep-rooted poverty in the region.
He also condemned domestic violence, highlighting its negativity impact on family growth.
Sheikh Obilan’s remarks were complemented by initiatives aimed at fostering community development.
He encouraged Muslim parents to apply for scholarship opportunities offered by the AMDEF Education Fund and the Iteso Cultural Union, in a bid to eradicate illiteracy and youth unemployment.
Following his address, the distribution of food items to county sheikhs, Imaams, and mothers took place as part of an Iftar programme sponsored by the Uganda Muslim Youth Assembly under Imaam Kasozi’s leadership.
Dr. Jamil Sserwanga, Vice Rector of the Islamic University in Uganda, delivered a keynote address that underlined the critical role of various stakeholders in supporting women and accelerating socio-economic transformation within communities.
He highlighted the need for attitudinal change toward work, the adoption of small-scale commercial activities, and the establishment of social support groups at the mosque level.
The convention also shed light on the alarming rate of domestic violence, reported to affect nearly 78 percent of Muslim families in the region, a situation Dr. Sserwanga and others linked to persistent poverty.
In response, women at the event called for organized awareness sessions for Muslim men to curb domestic violence and improve their familial responsibilities.
Sophia Safina Kenyangi, Chairperson of the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council Women Council, urged women to pursue self-reliance through small-scale business ventures and stressed the importance of educating the girl child as a means to uplift family economic status.
Hon. Aisha Neumbe Among further reiterated the pivotal role of women in maintaining peace and harmony within households, noting that a wife’s dedication is essential to nurturing a peaceful marital environment.
Strategic resolutions emerged from the convention, aimed at strengthening family bonds and enhancing participation in education and economic development.
In sideline meetings, county sheikhs resolved to form an association to facilitate better coordination among themselves and with other leadership structures, promoting joint planning and knowledge sharing.
Sheikh Kasim Achara of Kapelebyong was elected as Chairman, while Sheikh Opio Uthman of Bukedea was voted secretary.
Additionally, all county sheikhs agreed to adopt a unique dress code to enhance their public visibility.
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