MUMSA Alumni Launch Reunion Marks New Chapter as Alumni Unveil Toyota Hiace "Drone" Van and Rally Support for Reunion Dinner

24th. July, 2025 – The Makerere University Muslim Students' Association (MUMSA) officially launched its MUMSA Alumni Reunion Programme with the unveiling of a newly acquired Toyota Hiace Van, popularly known as the "Drone," a milestone that symbolizes unity, service, and the enduring commitment of MUMSA alumni to the Association.

The van was donated through the leadership and mobilization efforts of the MUMSA Alumni Committee, led by Imam Idd Kasozi of the MIA MIA Foundation, Haj. Karim Kaliisa, Haj. Muhammad Kaliisa of Salam Charity, Haj. AbdulHakiim Ssekandi of Uganda Halal Bureau, University Imam Sheikh Sowed Juma Mayanja, Former Imam Sheikh Ahmed Ssentongo, together with many other dedicated alumni and supporters who worked tirelessly to turn the vision into reality.

Speaking at the launch, Former Makerere University Imam Sheikh Sowed Juma Mayanja expressed gratitude to every individual, institution, and partner whose generosity and commitment made the acquisition of the van possible.

"For many years, reconnecting MUMSA alumni has been a cherished dream. Alhamdulillah, the MUMSA Van and the upcoming Reunion Dinner are turning that dream into reality. I thank every individual and institution that supported this noble cause and invite all alumni to continue demonstrating the spirit of unity and giving back that has always defined MUMSA."

The MUMSA Toyota Hiace Van, popularly known as the "Drone," is expected to become one of the Association's most valuable assets, extending its impact far beyond the university campus. Acquired through partnerships and sponsorship from institutions including Tropical Bank Limited and other well-wishers, the vehicle will significantly strengthen MUMSA's outreach and community service programmes across Uganda.

The van will facilitate Da'wah (Islamic outreach) by transporting students, Imams, and Muslim leaders to communities throughout the country. It will also support secondary school mentorship programmes, enabling MUMSA members to visit schools, inspire students, promote Islamic values, encourage academic excellence, and motivate young learners to pursue higher education.

Beyond outreach, the vehicle will enhance community mobilization, easing transportation for volunteers, educational materials, and student teams participating in community development activities. It will also strengthen collaboration between MUMSA, Makerere University, the University Mosque, alumni, corporate partners, and the wider Muslim community.

Makerere University leaders commended the alumni for demonstrating a remarkable culture of giving back to their alma mater.

Prof. Henry Arinaitwe, Deputy Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, praised the donation as a lasting investment in the University's Muslim community.

"I commend the MUMSA Alumni for donating this van—a lasting symbol of gratitude and giving back. I invite all MUMSA alumni to join the Reunion Dinner as we celebrate our shared legacy and continue strengthening the Association."

Dr. Winifred Namuwonge Kabumbuli, Dean of Students at Makerere University, emphasized that graduation should not mark the end of a student's relationship with the University.

"The bond between the University and its students does not end at graduation. Join us at the MUMSA Alumni Reunion Dinner to reconnect, strengthen our bonds, and support MUMSA in advancing its mission and achieving its objectives."

The Alumni leadership also reflected on the determination that brought the project to fruition.

Haj. AbdulHakiim Ssekandi, Director of the Uganda Halal Bureau, revealed that the initiative took one year and eleven months of mobilization, sacrifice, and teamwork.

"The MUMSA Van is the result of one year and eleven months of dedication, sacrifice, and teamwork. Alhamdulillah, what was once a dream is now a reality. Join us at the Reunion Dinner as we strategize for the next chapter of MUMSA's growth."

Haj. Muhammad Kaliisa, Chairman of Salam Charity, described the project as an investment in future generations.

"It has been an honor for me to stand with fellow alumni in contributing to the MUMSA Van—an investment in the future of the Association. I invite all MUMSA alumni to join us at the Reunion Dinner as we celebrate our shared journey."

On behalf of the current student leadership, Bwanika Sadat, Chairman of MUMSA, thanked every alumnus, partner, institution, and friend of the Association for the overwhelming support demonstrated throughout the campaign.

"On behalf of MUMSA, I extend our heartfelt gratitude to our alumni, partners, Makerere University, and all friends of MUMSA for the unwavering support they continue to show our Association. I warmly invite everyone, especially all MUMSA alumni, to join the Reunion Dinner."

For Eng. Nasif Kizito, a MUMSA alumnus, the upcoming dinner represents more than a reunion.

"The MUMSA Alumni Reunion Dinner will be a wonderful opportunity to reconnect, exchange ideas, renew friendships, and contribute another building block toward the growth and development of the Association for future generations."

Technology will also play a central role in strengthening alumni engagement.

Eng. Ashraf Nyanzi, Chief Technical Officer at Muslim Channel Uganda, encouraged alumni and friends of MUMSA to use the Association's digital contribution platform.

"Supporting MUMSA has never been easier. Through our secure and transparent digital platform, every alumnus and friend of MUMSA can contribute anytime, anywhere. Simply dial *284*3*12# on any mobile phone or visit www.mumsaug.org to reconnect, give back, and be part of MUMSA's future."

The President of the Muslim Students' Association of Uganda (MSAU), Hassan Wasswa, called upon Muslim students and alumni across the country to stand in solidarity with MUMSA.

"I invite Muslim students and alumni across Uganda to join us, stand with MUMSA, and invest in a legacy that will strengthen MUMSA for generations to come at Makerere University."

The launch concluded with a renewed call for participation in the MUMSA Alumni Reunion Dinner, scheduled for 19th September 2026 at the Makerere University Rugby Grounds.

The dinner is expected to bring together alumni from different generations, students, university leaders, development partners, and friends of MUMSA to celebrate the Association's achievements, strengthen professional and social networks, recognize outstanding contributions, and chart the next phase of MUMSA's growth.

With the successful unveiling of the Toyota Hiace "Drone" Van, organizers say the Association has demonstrated the power of alumni unity. They believe the Reunion Dinner will build on this momentum, inspiring even greater collaboration and investment in initiatives that empower Muslim students, expand community outreach, and secure a stronger future for MUMSA and Makerere University.

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