By Patience Namuddu
The Senior Presidential Advisor on Political Affairs and Head of the Office of the National Chairman (ONC), Hadijah Namyalo Uzeiye, has extended Ramadan relief support to Muslim inmates at Jinja Main Prison, delivering assorted food items to assist them during the holy month of Ramadan.
Namyalo, popularly known as the Chief Muzzukulu, visited the prison facility where she was received by the Officer-in-Charge, Superintendent of Prisons Daniel Nsolonkambwe Ssekijjo. During the visit, she handed over food items as part of the ongoing Ramadan outreach organised by the Office of the National Chairman.
While addressing inmates and prison authorities, Namyalo said the initiative was inspired by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, who directed that Muslims in correctional facilities should also be supported during the holy month of Ramadan.
She explained that the President had reflected on the welfare of Ugandans in different circumstances and emphasised the importance of ensuring that no one is forgotten during significant religious observances.
“Ramadan is a time for reflection, repentance and self-discipline. I encourage you to use this period to reform and prepare for a responsible return to your communities,” Namyalo told the inmates.
She also cautioned young people against engaging in criminal activities, noting that prison life presents many hardships and should serve as a warning to those tempted to pursue crime.
Namyalo commended prison authorities for their continued efforts to rehabilitate inmates through welfare and reform programmes. She added that her office would continue engaging relevant stakeholders to strengthen support for such initiatives.
The ONC head further assured inmates that their concerns would be forwarded to the President for consideration, particularly for those who qualify for clemency based on good conduct, long service and demonstrated reform.
Receiving the donation, Superintendent Nsolonkambwe welcomed the gesture and thanked both Namyalo and President Museveni for remembering inmates during the holy month of Ramadan.
He noted that such support boosts the morale of prisoners during the period of fasting and reflection.
According to prison authorities, Jinja Main Prison currently hosts more than 1,900 inmates, including both remanded and convicted prisoners who will benefit from the relief items.
Later in the evening, Namyalo travelled to Iganga District where she joined the Muslim community at the headquarters of the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) for the breaking of the Ramadan fast (Iftar).
The gathering brought together Muslim leaders, clerics, local leaders and believers from across the region who shared a meal and prayers in observance of the holy month.
Addressing the faithful, Namyalo commended the Muslim community for their continued support for President Museveni and their role in promoting peace, unity and national development.
She also revealed that President Museveni has pledged Shs20 billion to support Muslim women through Savings and Credit Cooperative Organisations (SACCOs) as part of government efforts to promote economic empowerment.
Namyalo encouraged Muslim women to organise themselves into SACCO groups so that they can benefit from the initiative once the funds are operationalised.
The event concluded with prayers for peace, unity and continued prosperity for Uganda as Muslims across the country observe the holy month of Ramadan.