Inna Lillahi Wa Inna Ilaihi Rajioun
Sheikh Abdul Qadir Mbogo was one of Uganda’s oldest and most respected Muslim scholars, administrators, and community leaders. He dedicated more than 70 years of service to Islam in Uganda.
Who is Sheikh Abdul Qadir Mbogo?
* He was born on 13 March 1930 in Ntinda, Kampala, to the late Muslim Kyeswa.
* He studied Islamic knowledge from an early age and later pursued further studies in Yemen before returning to Uganda.
* After returning from Yemen in 1951, he served as Imam of Abdul-Azziz Bulwadda Mosque in Kampala and later rose to become District Kadhi of Kampala District.
* He served the Muslim community through different eras, including the period of Prince Badru Kakungulu, and the development of the Kibuli Muslim establishment.
Major Contributions
1. Kibuli Hospital
Sheikh Mbogo is widely credited among the pioneers who mobilized Muslims across Uganda to establish the now well-known Kibuli Hospital in the early 1980s.
He was remembered for transparency and integrity in handling resources during the hospital’s construction.
1. Uganda Muslim Supreme Council Affairs
He served in leadership positions within the Muslim administration and witnessed many of the historical developments, challenges, and reconciliation efforts among Muslims in Uganda.
1. Islamic History Preservation
He authored the book Ebyafaayo by’Obusiraamu (“History of Islam”), documenting his experiences and important events in Uganda’s Muslim community.
His Legacy
Many Muslims regarded Sheikh Abdul Qadir Mbogo as a living archive of Uganda’s Islamic history because he personally witnessed and participated in major developments spanning from the colonial era through modern Uganda. He was known for promoting unity, honesty, community service, and Islamic education.
On His Passing
Reports indicate that Sheikh Abdul Qadir Mbogo has passed away. Uganda has lost one of its last surviving elders who had firsthand knowledge of over seven decades of Muslim history and leadership. His contribution to da’wah, education, administration, and institution-building will remain part of Uganda’s Islamic heritage.
May Allah forgive Sheikh Abdul Qadir Mbogo, have mercy upon him, accept his good deeds, and grant him Jannatul-Firdaws. Ameen.
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