By Namugerwa Martha
The Mufti of Uganda H.E Sheikh Shaban Ramathan Mubajje has advised Muslim leaders and scholars to stand up and educate people about Islam. Mubajje who said Islam doesn’t promote violent extremism, said during the Muslim and Scholars regional summit it’s good to discuss the issues of extremism from a scholarly perspective and remove any assumptions formed over time.
The meeting which aimed at countering and responding and preventing violent extremism in Africa started on 15th and will run to 17th May at the Lake Victoria Serena hotel in Kigo Uganda.
“As Muslims we must stand up to our responsibility and educate people about Islam especially when it doesn’t promote violent extremism,” Mubajje said.
Muslim leaders and scholars have also discussed interventions that can be implemented at individual and community levels to encounter violent extremism in Africa.
During the meeting the founder of International Interfaith Peace Corps (IIPC) Imrana A Umar said that they have evidence of the adverse effects of violent extremism on the development of Africa like destroying of properties, murder of children and destroying businesses in say of religion.
“We hope to have a re-affirmation of the Abuja declaration 2016 against all forms of extremist activities in name of Islam,” Umar said.
Addition, the minister of East African Affairs Hon. Kirunda Kivejinja also said that Ugandan government remains committed to fighting violent extremism through its firm stand on terrorism and promotion of peace.
“I am pleased to note that the summit will engage regional Muslim leaders and scholars as partners and advocates against violent extremism,” Kivejinja said
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