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Scholars Urged to Ground Religious Guidance in Local Contexts

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Muslim scholars have been encouraged to ensure their religious guidance (Fatwa) addresses the unique realities of the communities they serve. The call was made by His Eminence Prof. Dr. Koutoub Moustapha Sano, Secretary General of the International Fiqh Academy, during his keynote address at the inaugural International Conference on Islamic Jurisprudence hosted by the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC). The event is part of activities marking UMSC’s Golden Jubilee celebrations.  

Dr. Koutoub compared Fatwa to medicine, emphasizing the need for tailored solutions. “Just as medicine must suit the health needs of a particular community, Fatwa must respond to the specific societal realities it serves,” he said. He cautioned against importing religious rulings from other contexts, as these might not align with local conditions. “Locally produced Fatwa makes a significant impact, which is the intended purpose,” he noted.  

He also stressed the need for unity among scholars, urging them to rise above differences in jurisprudential schools. “Whether Maliki or Hanafi, your school of thought is always best to you, but don’t let these differences create division,” he remarked. He advocated for institutionalized decision-making, especially on public matters, over personal opinions.  

Dr. Koutoub further advised Uganda’s Muslim leaders to utilize the UMSC as a unifying platform for guiding Islamic practices in the country. He proposed establishing an annual African Muftis meeting to foster collaboration and suggested financial independence for such gatherings to ensure impartiality.  

Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, the Mufti of Uganda and host of the forum, echoed the importance of contextualized religious guidance. He emphasized that understanding Islam through the Quran and Hadith enables Muslims to feel more connected to their faith.  

“This meeting underscores the need for Muslims to interpret Islam directly from the Quran and Hadith, without external influence. That is the foundation of our belief,” said Mufti Mubaje. He also called for unity among Muslims, stressing that differing interpretations should not lead to division.  

The two-day forum brought together Muftis and scholars from over 30 African countries, including Rwanda, South Africa, Sudan, Kenya, and DR Congo. The conference aimed to strengthen cooperation and address shared challenges within the Muslim community.  

Resolutions from the forum are expected to enhance Islamic leadership across the continent. Established in 1972 under then-President Gen. Idi Amin, the UMSC was founded to unify Muslims in Uganda. Its 50-year celebrations, delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, will culminate on December 12, 2024, at the Gaddafi National Mosque in Old Kampala. The Mufti invited all Ugandans, regardless of their faith, to join the celebrations.

The participants present were His Eminence Sheikh Muhammad Ali Waiswa, the Deputy Mufti, His Eminence Dr Sheikh Hafidh Muhammad Harunah Bukenya the 2nd Deputy Mufti, H.E Dr. Rashid Ssemundu, the Ugandan Ambassador to the Republic of Sudan, Regional Assistants to Mufti, District Kadhis among others.

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