Namyalo delivers ONC Ramadan relief to Muslim inmates at Jinja Prison

Jinja, Uganda: The Senior Presidential Advisor on Political Affairs and Head of the Office of the National Chairman (ONC), Hadijah Namyalo Uzeiye, Friday extended Ramadan relief support to Muslim inmates at Jinja Main Prison, delivering assorted food items to support them during the holy month of Ramadan as part of an outreach initiative organised by the Kyambogo Office

While handing over the items to the Officer-in-Charge, Daniel Nsolonkambwe Ssekijjo, Namyalo, popularly known as Chief Muzzukulu, said the initiative was inspired by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, who directed that Muslims in prisons should also receive support during the fasting period.

She explained that the President had reflected on the welfare of Ugandans in different circumstances, including those in correctional facilities, stressing that they should not be forgotten during important religious observances.

Namyalo urged inmates to use the holy month as a period of reflection, discipline and personal transformation as they prepare for reintegration into society. “Ramadan is a time for reflection, repentance and self-discipline. Use this period to reform and prepare yourselves for a responsible return to society,” she said.

She also cautioned young people against engaging in criminal activities, noting that prison life comes with significant hardships.

Commitment to Prison Welfare

Namyalo commended the prison authorities for implementing rehabilitation programmes aimed at reforming inmates and pledged that her office would explore additional areas where support could be provided.

She further assured prisoners that their concerns would be forwarded to President Museveni, particularly for those who may qualify for clemency based on long service, good conduct and demonstrated reform.

“I will ensure that your concerns are forwarded to President Museveni for consideration, especially for those who qualify for clemency based on long service, good conduct and clear demonstration of reform,” she said.

O.C Ssekijjo thanked Namyalo and President Museveni for remembering inmates during the Ramadan period. He said such support boosts the morale of prisoners during the time of fasting and reflection.

According to prison authorities, Jinja Main Prison currently houses more than 1,900 inmates, including both remanded and convicted prisoners. The O.C. assured that the donated items would be distributed to the intended beneficiaries.

Ramadan Iftar in Iganga

Namyalo later stretched the Ramadan charity drive to Iganga, where she joined the Muslim community at the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) headquarters for the breaking of the fast (Iftar). The gathering attracted Muslim leaders, clerics, local leaders and believers from across the region who convened to share a meal and prayers during the holy month.

Addressing the faithful, Namyalo commended the Muslim community for its continued support for President Museveni over the years. “Your continued support for President Museveni is a clear demonstration of the confidence the Muslim community has in his leadership and commitment to maintaining peace, stability and development in our country,” she said.

Namyalo reminded the community that President Museveni had pledged Shs20 billion to support Muslim women through Savings and Credit Cooperative Organisations (SACCOs), and urged Muslim women to organise themselves into SACCO groups to benefit from the initiative once the funds are operationalised.

“The President appreciates the continued support from the Muslim community. He has committed Shs20 billion to empower Muslim women through SACCOs, and I encourage you to organise yourselves and participate so that you can benefit,” she said.

Namyalo also called on the youth to remain disciplined, avoid criminal activities and focus on productive ventures that can improve their livelihoods.

The Iftar gathering concluded with prayers for peace, unity and prosperity for the country as Muslims continue observing the holy month of Ramadan.