KAMPALA – Kampala University’s Ggaba campus was abuzz with activity on Thursday as it played host to the International Quds Day event, organized by the Cultural Consulate of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in collaboration with the university’s management. The event drew a high-profile crowd, including dignitaries such as Dr. Waldah M.Rajab Gyagenda, Deputy Vice Chancellor of Kampala University, and H.E. Mr. Majid Saffar, Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran.
The event commenced with a poignant Quran recitation by Mr. Chamani Abolfazl, an Iranian Quran recitor from Mashhad, Iran. This was followed by a welcome address by Dr. Waldah M. Rajab Gyagenda, who acknowledged the guests and expressed gratitude for the strong ties between Kampala University and the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran.
“We are honored to host this significant event, which highlights the importance of solidarity with the Palestinian people,” Dr. Gyagenda said. “We recognize the plight of the Palestinian people and the need for collective action to address their struggles.”
Hon. Issah Katungulu Luyimbaazi, the African Youth Ambassador, provided an overview of Quds Day, highlighting its significance as an annual pro-Palestinian event held on the last Friday of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. He emphasized the importance of solidarity with the Palestinian people and opposition to Israeli occupation.
“Quds Day is a call to action for all people of conscience to stand in solidarity with the Palestinian people,” Hon. Luyimbaazi said. “It is a reminder of the injustices faced by the Palestinian people and the need for collective action to address their struggles.”
Prof. Adam Sebyala Al-maliky, a renowned academic and president of the Uganda Shia Ithna Ashari Muslim Community, delivered a keynote address on the “INTRACTABLE PROBLEM OF PALESTINE.” He provided a historical context to the Palestinian struggle, highlighting the injustices faced by the Palestinian people and the need for a comprehensive solution.
“The Palestinian struggle is not just a political issue, but a humanitarian concern that affects all people of conscience,” Prof. Al-maliky said. “It is a reminder of the importance of solidarity and collective action in addressing the struggles of oppressed people around the world.”
Dr. Hadi Assadi, a lecturer at Al-Mustafa Islamic College Kyengera, shared insights on the historical reports of the holy prophet and the importance of fulfilling social obligations alongside Islamic ones.
“The holy prophet emphasized the importance of standing in solidarity with oppressed people and fulfilling our social obligations,” Dr. Assadi said. “As Muslims, we have a responsibility to stand in solidarity with the Palestinian people and to work towards a just and comprehensive solution to their struggles.”
The event also featured remarks from the Deputy Ambassador of the Republic of Sudan, who recognized the charismatic leadership of Imam Khomeini in declaring International Quds Day. He urged Muslims to continue supporting the Palestinian people until they regain their sovereignty and peace.
“We must continue to stand in solidarity with the Palestinian people and to work towards a just and comprehensive solution to their struggles,” the Deputy Ambassador said. “We must also recognize the importance of Imam Khomeini’s leadership in declaring International Quds Day and his commitment to the Palestinian cause.”
H.E. Mr. Majid Saffar, Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran, delivered a powerful address, calling upon participants to go one step further in defending Palestine.
“Palestine is not solely a Muslim issue, but a humanitarian concern that affects all servants of God, regardless of their backgrounds,” Ambassador Saffar said. “We must continue to stand in solidarity with the Palestinian people and to work towards a just and comprehensive solution to their struggles.”
The event concluded with a call to action, urging participants to continue advocating for the rights of the Palestinian people and to work towards a just and comprehensive solution to their struggles. The event served as a powerful reminder of the importance of solidarity and collective action in addressing the struggles of oppressed people around the world.
