Sheikh Katamba Named New Makerere University Imam

Makerere University has appointed Sheikh Abdul-Karim Abdallah Katamba as its new Imam, a role he officially assumed on October 1, 2026. The selection was the result of a comprehensive process, involving both the university administration and the Office of the Mufti of Uganda.

The appointment was formally confirmed through a letter issued by the university’s Chief Human Resource Officer. According to Haj Ashiraf Zziwa, spokesperson for the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC), Sheikh Katamba was chosen after nominations, assessments, and interviews of qualified Muslim clerics.

The process commenced when Makerere University requested the Office of the Mufti, headed by Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, to propose three candidates with advanced degrees in Islamic theology and related qualifications. These nominees were then interviewed and assessed before Katamba’s successful selection.

Sheikh Katamba brings over two decades of experience in Islamic scholarship, teaching, administration, and leadership. He holds a Master of Arts in Sharia-Islamic Law from the Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU) and a Bachelor of Arts in Hadith and Prophetic Traditions from the Islamic University of Madinah.

His career has included lecturing in Islamic Studies at IUIU, serving as headteacher of Shuhada Secondary School, and teaching at Bugembe Islamic Institute. He has also held significant positions within the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council, including heading the Halal Department and serving as Assistant to the Mufti for the Ankole-Kigezi region.

In his new capacity as University Imam, Sheikh Katamba will provide spiritual and religious guidance to the Muslim student and staff community at Makerere University. His role will involve overseeing Islamic activities and supporting the spiritual well-being of the institution’s Muslim population.

This appointment highlights the collaborative efforts between Makerere University and the Office of the Mufti in securing qualified religious leadership for the university. Sheikh Katamba’s extensive background in academia, religious administration, and community leadership positions him well for this significant role.

Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/376704/sheikh-abdul-karim-katamba-appointed-makerere-university-imam