Hajjat Sofia Safina Kenyangi’s Transformative Ramadan Umrah: A Journey of Faith, Leadership, and Empowerment

During the blessed days of Ramadan, Hajjat Sofia Safina Kenyangi, the Chairperson of the National Muslim Women Council (NMWC) under the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC), undertook a deeply spiritual Umrah pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca—a journey that reflects not only personal devotion but also a broader mission of uplifting Muslim women across Uganda.

Surrounded by the serenity of the Holy Kaaba, Hajjat Kenyangi spent her days in prayer, reflection, and supplication, seeking guidance for the continued empowerment of the Muslim Ummah—especially women whose voices are now rising stronger than ever within Islamic leadership structures.

While in the sacred precincts of Masjid al-Haram, Hajjat Kenyangi dedicated special prayers for the unity of the Muslim community in Uganda, the economic empowerment of Muslim women, the strengthening of faith and leadership among the youth, and continued peace and collaboration between religious and national institutions.

Her Umrah journey symbolizes a leader who not only serves on the ground but also uplifts her people spiritually before Allah.

A Legacy of Transformation Back Home

Her spiritual journey comes at a time when her leadership continues to reshape the role of Muslim women in Uganda. As highlighted:

"National Muslim Women Council (NMWC) under the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC), Hajjat Sofia Safina Kenyangi has led a transformative era of female inclusion in Islamic leadership in Uganda. Her tenure is marked by significant economic empowerment initiatives and the formal integration of women into the UMSC’s governance structures."

Key Leadership & Achievements

Securing Financial Empowerment
UGX 2 Billion Grant: Hajjat Kenyangi successfully lobbied for a UGX 2 billion donation from President Yoweri Museveni to support Muslim women's SACCOs across the country.
National Muslim Women Fund: Launched this revolving, interest-free fund to support socio-economic transformation, ensuring that funds reach grassroots levels in every district.

Technological Innovation
Centralized Digital System: Introduced a groundbreaking initiative to digitize all women’s SACCOs. This system allows for real-time tracking of needs, online applications, and enhanced transparency in resource allocation.

Constitutional Advocacy & Representation
Leadership Inclusion: Played a pivotal role in the UMSC Constitutional Review, which formally brought women into the General Assembly for the first time.
Grassroots Structure: Under her guidance, the council established a hierarchy including 10 women in the general assembly, 78 in districts, 600 at county levels, and approximately 15,000 members at the grassroots level.

Inauguration & Visibility
Historic Inauguration: Organized the first-ever National Muslim Women Council inauguration in October 2024 at Old Kampala, attended by the President and top government officials, symbolizing the unstoppable force of Muslim women in society.

Social & Vocational Advocacy
Center for Rehabilitation: Announced plans for a national fund to support the construction of a center for rehabilitation and vocational skills for women.
Advocacy Against Barriers: Continues to call for government and partner support to address limited access to education, financial exclusion, and social barriers that restrict leadership opportunities.

The inauguration marked a defining national moment, where Hajjat Kenyangi outlined her vision for Muslim women empowerment, while President Yoweri Museveni pledged UGX 2 billion in support of Muslim women SACCOs—cementing government commitment to inclusive socio-economic transformation.

From Participation to Leadership

Hajjat Kenyangi’s leadership has redefined the role of Muslim women—from participants to active decision-makers and economic drivers.

Her work continues to position Muslim women at the center of agriculture, entrepreneurship, education, and community leadership.

A Ramadan of Purpose

As she concludes her Umrah during this sacred month, Hajjat Sofia Safina Kenyangi returns not only spiritually renewed but also more committed than ever to advancing the dignity, voice, and power of Muslim women in Uganda.

Her journey stands as a powerful reminder that when faith meets leadership, transformation becomes inevitable.

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