SPA Hajjat Namyalo Distributes Ramadan Aid to Prisoners, Meets Muslim Community in Iganga

By Gad Masereka

Senior Presidential Advisor on Political Affairs and Head of the Office of the National Chairman, SPA/PA Hajjat Hadijah Namyalo Uzeiye, on Friday 6th March 2026 extended Ramadan relief support to Muslim inmates at Jinja Main Prison, delivering assorted food items intended to assist them during the ongoing holy month of fasting and reflection.

The visit formed part of a broader outreach initiative aimed at ensuring that vulnerable communities, including those in correctional facilities, are not left behind during important religious observances.

Hajjat Namyalo, widely known as the President’s Chief Muzzukulu, was received at the facility by the Officer in Charge, Superintendent of Prisons Daniel Nsolonkambwe Ssekijjo, before presiding over the handover of the Ramadan relief packages organised by the Office of the National Chairman. The support was directed at Muslim inmates observing the fast, many of whom depend on external assistance to meet the unique dietary requirements associated with Ramadan.

While addressing inmates and prison officials, Namyalo said the initiative was inspired by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, who emphasised the need to remember Ugandans in all circumstances, including those serving sentences in correctional facilities. She explained that the President had reflected on the welfare of Muslims in prison and encouraged support efforts to ensure they are able to observe the holy month with dignity.

“Ramadan is a time for reflection, repentance and self discipline. I encourage you to use this period to reform and prepare yourselves for a responsible return to society,” Namyalo told the inmates, urging them to view the period as an opportunity for personal transformation.

She also cautioned young people against engaging in criminal activities, noting that life in prison presents significant hardships that should serve as a warning to those tempted to pursue crime. At the same time, she commended prison authorities for maintaining rehabilitation programmes aimed at reforming offenders and preparing them for eventual reintegration into society.

Namyalo further assured inmates that concerns raised during the visit would be forwarded to the President for consideration, particularly for those who may qualify for clemency based on good conduct, long service and clear evidence of reform. “I will ensure that your concerns reach President Yoweri Museveni for consideration, especially for those who qualify for clemency and have demonstrated genuine reform,” she said.

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 plays an important role in boosting morale among prisoners during a period that carries deep spiritual meaning for Muslims.

He revealed that Jinja Main Prison currently hosts more than 1,900 inmates, including both remanded and convicted prisoners, many of whom would benefit from the donated items. Nsolonkambwe assured that the assistance would be distributed to the intended beneficiaries in line with the prison’s welfare guidelines.

Later in the evening, Namyalo travelled to Iganga District where she joined members of the Muslim community at the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council headquarters for the breaking of the Ramadan fast. The Iftar gathering brought together religious leaders, local officials, clerics and believers from across the region who assembled to share a meal and prayers in observance of the holy month.

Addressing the gathering, Namyalo commended the Muslim community for their consistent support for President Museveni over the years, noting that the strong backing demonstrated confidence in the leadership and policies that have prioritised peace, stability and national development.

“Your continued support for President Museveni reflects the confidence the Muslim community has in his leadership and his commitment to safeguarding peace and development in our country,” she said.

She also revealed that President Museveni had pledged Shs20 billion to support Muslim women through Savings and Credit Cooperative Organisations as part of broader efforts aimed at strengthening household incomes and expanding economic participation among women.

Namyalo encouraged Muslim women to organise themselves into SACCO groups so that they can benefit from the initiative once the funds are operationalised, emphasising the importance of collective financial discipline and entrepreneurship.

She concluded by calling on young people to remain disciplined, avoid criminal behaviour and pursue productive opportunities that can improve their livelihoods and contribute to the country’s progress. The gathering ended with prayers for peace, unity and prosperity as Muslims continue observing the holy month of Ramadan across the country.