UMSC Partners with Gazmart Uganda Limited to Develop a Mega Commercial Construction Project in Gulu city.

By Dr. Kivumbi Earnest Benjamin, L. H. D. (Hon.) Updated at 1334 EAT on Thursday 28th September 2025

GULU- The Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) has officially handed over prime land in Gulu City to Gazmart Uganda Limited for a multi-billion-shilling development project. The Hand over was by Head of Department of Awqaaf & Endowments (Lands & Properties) on behalf of UMSC is a confirmation document to allow the commencement of the construction of the already agreed partnership in the MOU.

The ceremony was presided over by Hon. Nasser Musa Odongkara, Head of the Department of Awqaaf & Endowments, and Hon. Sheikh AbdulBarr Kalooz, Head of the Department of Zakat & Swadaqa, on behalf of UMSC. The event was organized by Sheikh Mandela, the District Kadhi of Acholi Muslim District, who rallied local leaders including the Resident City Commissioner (RCC), the Mayor of Gulu City, LC1 leaders, and members of the business community.

The handover of documents by the Head of Department Awqaaf and Endowments on behalf of UMSC to its partner ( Gazmart Uganda ltd) Executive director to commence construction.

Speaking at the handover, Hon. Odongkara emphasized that the project would significantly benefit both the Muslim community in Gulu and the wider population. He encouraged proper utilization of Muslim-owned land to safeguard it against encroachment.

“To realize the fruits of growth in income within Gulu City, we must fully participate in and support infrastructure development,” he said.

Highlighting UMSC’s ongoing commitment to development, Odongkara pointed to other major projects such as the mega-structure in Arua, the regional headquarters under construction in Hoima, and developments at Najjanankumbi, Kampala.

“This magnificent project is yet another example of UMSC’s vibrancy in driving socio-economic growth for Muslims and the entire nation,” he added.

On his part, Hon. Sheikh AbdulBarr Kalooz urged Muslims to remain united and work collectively for development. He stressed the importance of hard work and fulfilling Zakat obligations, reminding the faithful that the ongoing harvest season was a time to give back from their wealth. He also distributed Zakat booklets to mosques in Acholi Muslim District to guide Imams in educating believers on their responsibilities.

“Unity, hard work, and faithfulness in fulfilling our Zakat obligations will transform our community,” Sheikh Kalooz noted.

The District Kadhi, Sheikh Mandela, praised the UMSC leadership under the Mufti of Uganda for steering strategic development initiatives, while the RCC and Mayor commended the Council for aligning the project with government development priorities.

The partnership with Gazmart Uganda Limited marks a new chapter in the economic empowerment of the Muslim community in Acholi and reflects UMSC’s broader vision of harnessing land and resources for sustainable growth.