The Uganda Muslim Lawyers’ Association (UMLAS) recently hosted its annual dinner at the Protea Hotel Skyz in Naguru, bringing together leaders, legal professionals, and advocates to reflect on the association’s mission and adopt fresh ideas for inclusive development. Held under the theme “Re-Imaging UMLAS We All Desire,” the gathering aimed to chart a pathway toward more equitable opportunities for Uganda’s Muslim community and the nation at large. The National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC), a prominent figure in Uganda’s public service, added its weight to the occasion, purchasing a table for its legal team as a show of solidarity and commitment to social causes that advance collective progress.
The event drew a notable roster of guests, including H.E. Ismail Mpanga-Bbumba, Deputy Honorary Consul of Malaysia in Uganda, and Justice Kibedi Muzamir of the Court of Appeal. Both dignitaries highlighted values central to the association; justice, shared responsibility, and socioeconomic equity. With sponsorship from NWSC and other influential partners, UMLAS also sought to amplify its efforts in shaping public policy for marginalized communities as most key speakers of the evening kept emphasizing that partnerships with organizations like NWSC create meaningful connections that extend beyond financial support, but rather embody a commitment to building a more just society.
NWSC’s legal team, led by Senior Legal Officer Nalubwama Afuwa Umwiza, participated actively in the evening’s discourse, and the cherry on top was the evening witnessing Counsel Umwiza, elected UMLAS Treasurer, a clear depiction of NWSC’s growing investment in legal and ethical leadership. As a corporation dedicated to ensuring equitable access to water, NWSC sees value in professional forums that open avenues for collaborative change.
Meanwhile, in his address to the gathering, newly elected UMLAS President Counsel Ssemambo Rashid urged his colleagues to uphold standards of character and capability, emphasizing that excellence is rooted in dedication, not mere titles, as he encouraged members to view their profession as a calling. Rashid drew upon Quranic teachings, reminding attendees of their duty to serve as an exemplary community and encouraging them to pursue knowledge and genuine impact through their legal work.
Adding to the evening’s calls for progress, Uganda Law Society President Isaac Semakadde advocated for integrating Islamic finance and banking principles into Uganda’s broader economic framework. Semakadde’s call for a *“Radical New Bar”* challenged attendees to reflect on how their roles could drive socio-economic transformation. In a way, he simply urged the legal minds to consider their influence in shaping policies that support sustainable growth.
The dinner concluded with the ceremonial handover from the outgoing UMLAS Executive to the incoming team.
