In the heart of Mityana District, Uganda, the life of an IERA Uganda outreach specialist is far from easy. These dedicated individuals, tasked with spreading the Prophetic Mission, often face significant challenges in their mission, particularly in regions with predominantly Christian populations.
One such of the Duat, Abdulkarim Kato, shared his experiences in the village of Namutamba.
Initially, he found a promising ally in a local Muslim named Mzei Abdallah.
However, the situation took a turn for the worse when Abdallah, who had initially offered shelter to the team, began to distance himself. He expressed fear of social ostracism and the potential consequences of associating with Muslims.
Abdul Karim and his team also encountered hostility from a Catholic landlord. After initially welcoming them and renting them one of his houses, the landlord’s attitude changed, becoming increasingly hostile and distant.
This sudden change highlighted the pervasive prejudice against Muslims in the area.
The challenges extended beyond individual hostility. Abdul Sabur, a coordinator in Namutamba, described the difficulties in establishing Islamic classes. The local community, often influenced by Christian leaders, actively sought to disrupt these classes, using tactics like playing loud music and spreading rumors to discourage attendance.
The fear of social isolation and discrimination also discouraged new reverts from attending new Muslim classes. Many feared being ostracized by their families and communities.
Despite these formidable obstacles, the iERA Uganda team remained steadfast in their commitment to spreading the message of Islam.
They faced challenges with courage and resilience, relying on their faith to guide them through difficult times. Their unwavering dedication to the cause is a testament to the power of Islam to inspire and uplift.
In another instance, Mzei Abdallah, a resident of Kimanya village, initially welcomed the Duat warmly.
He even provided them with land to build a mosque, a much-needed facility as the village had only one mosque, and people had to travel long distances for Jumu’ah prayers.
However, Mzei eventually turned against the team, reflecting the complex social dynamics in these regions.
In Namutamba, where the team was currently working, there was no mosque in the entire village. When they discussed the need for a mosque, the local community dismissed the idea, stating they did not need one despite the presence of numerous churches.
Abdul Sabur , the area coordinator, shared that they are still determined to continue with the Prophetic Mission, looking for ways to construct a formidable mosque in Kimanya Village.
Their determination and perseverance in the face of adversity exemplify their commitment to spreading the light of Islam.
This story of trials and perseverance highlights the immense challenges faced by IERA Uganda’s Duat.
Despite the hurdles, their dedication and resilience continue to inspire and uplift the communities they serve.
