Muslims in Uganda have been asked help the less privileged and keep good manners during the season of Ramadan.
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, observed by muslims around the world as a month of fasting (sawm), prayer (salah), reflection, among others. The annual observance of Ramadan is also regarded as one of the Five Pillars of Islam.
Speaking at an Iftar dinner organized by MTN and Salam TV, the Minister for Kampala, Minsa Kabanda, called for unity amongst muslims, during the month of Ramadan.
“Foster unity of purpose as Muslims, it’s this unity that will take us far as Muslims both spiritually and Physically,” she said.
She also asked the Muslims to remember the teachings of prophet Mohamed (SAW) of giving to the vulnerable and the less Privileged.
“Here in Kampala, people are poor let’s remember them, let us give, let them also get what to break their fast during this Ramadan,”she said.
On his part, the General Manager MTN business, Ibrahim Ssenyonga said that it is a cherished tradition for MTN to come together with the Muslim community during the holy month of Ramadan and break the fast.
He noted that MTN’s relationship with the Muslim community is a bond built on mutual respect, understanding and shared values.
“As we have this meal together, we symbolize the spirit of unity and solidarity that defines our partnership. The holy month of Ramadan holds a profound significance for the Muslims around the world. It is a time of reflection, spiritual rejuvenation and acts of kindness. Ramadan represents us with an opportunity to recommit ourselves to our faith and to our one and to one another,” said Ssenyonga while representing the MTN CEO Sylvia Mulinge.
He noted that in keeping with the spirit of generosity and compassion embodied by Ramadan, MTN mobile money and SalamTV, have embarked on a series of charity initiatives aimed at giving back to the communities.
“We have reintroduced the special Ramadan bundle, offering customers 30 minutes and 100MBs daily when they load airtime or buy any bundle worth 500/= or more. This initiative aims to facilitate communication during the fasting period and is open to all MTN customers,” he said.
The Managing Director Salam TV, Haji Karim Kaliisa, said, “Ramadan with MTN dinner has been an annual dinner since 2017 when Salam Tv approached MTN. They always make sure that it is either on the first, second or third day of Ramadan. MTN will sponsor and take some of you to Mecca, we thank them fo the support they have accorded to the Muslim community not only during Ramathan but also on other days,” he said.
Sarah Bateta Okwi, the CFO MTN MoMo Uganda, revealed that MTN has also set up a charity account for the general Muslim community to donate toward supporting less fortunate at the end of the fasting period.
“Through the MoMo App or by dialing 1653#, anyone can contribute to this noble cause and make a difference in the lives of those longing to fulfill their spiritual journey,” she said.
She revealed that this year, MTN will be assisting Muslims to easily collect their Umrah and Hajj travel fees conveniently using MTN MoMo.
“This has been made possible through our (MoMo) partnership with the Haji-Umra Bureau, the premier provider of hassle-free and well-organized Hajj and Umrah services.
This initiative not only ensures that Ugandans can access affordable and stress-free pilgrimage experiences but also reinforces our commitment to driving digital and financial inclusion, a core pillar of MTN’s Ambition 2025,” she said.
