Gaddafi Mosque in Uganda

One of the most important places of worship in Uganda is the Gaddafi Mosque. The modern mosque, which bears the name of Colonel Muammar Gaddafi, the late ruler of Libya, is situated in the center of Kampala. This wonderful hall of worship was a gift from Gaddafi to the Islamic community in Uganda.

Initially known as the Old Kampala National Mosque, the mosque’s construction was started in 1972 by the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council. In addition, the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council is in charge of managing all Islamic-related matters, assets, and establishments in the nation.

The mosque’s construction was abruptly stopped in 1976 and remained that way for a considerable amount of time. During Colonel Muammar Gaddafi’s 2001 visit to Uganda, Mufti Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubajje addressed him and asked for assistance in finishing the mosque. In 2006, building restarted when Gaddafi granted his request.

The mosque was constructed with a blend of European, African, and Arabic architectural styles. When it was finished in 2007, Gaddafi returned to Uganda to officially open it. The mosque was renamed in Gaddafi’s honor by the Muslim community in Uganda.

The Gaddafi Mosque was renamed the Uganda National Mosque because of its religious and architectural importance. The Uganda National Mosque was established as the Islamic community’s headquarters.

In Uganda and is home to the offices of the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council. The mosque is situated atop Kampala Hill, one of the capital’s seven main hills. It is one of the main attractions in Kampala because of its advantageous location in the center of the city, which makes it accessible from all directions. Additionally, it can be seen from all over the city because to its elevated location and sky scraper-like tower.

Location, Admission Costs, and Operating Hours of the Gaddafi Mosque in Uganda

The Gaddafi Mosque is the biggest mosque in East Africa and the second largest mosque in Africa, behind the Hassan Mosque in Casablanca, Morocco.

The Gaddafi Mosque occupies about ten acres of space. It is a two-story building with several offices on the ground floor, including the Uganda Mufti’s office, the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council’s office, and the front desk office.

The real prayer hall is located in the upper part of the structure. A typical meeting room, a university college, a library, and a radio station are all located on the grounds of the Uganda National Mosque.  Up to 20,000 people can be accommodated at the Gaddafi Mosque.

The location and history of Uganda’s Gaddafi Mosque

One of the most important places of worship in Uganda is the Gaddafi Mosque. The modern mosque, which bears the name of Colonel Muammar Gaddafi, the late ruler of Libya, is situated in the center of Kampala. This wonderful hall of worship was a gift from Gaddafi to the Islamic community in Uganda.

Initially known as the Old Kampala National Mosque, the mosque’s construction was started in 1972 by the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council. In addition, the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council is in charge of managing all Islamic-related matters, assets, and establishments in the nation.

The mosque’s construction abruptly stopped in 1976 and remained that way for a considerable amount of time round to observe the artistry, architecture and embroidery. Some go to the mosque because it provides one of the best views of Kampala city.

On a typical visit, tourists are led around the facility by a friendly Guide who share more information about the history of the mosque. A visit is incomplete without climbing up the minaret. This prayer tower is where the Muezzin calls worshipers for prayers. From the minaret, you can get a clear view of Kampala city.

The Gaddafi Mosque is always open for prayers on Fridays and special occasions like on Iddi or for weddings. The mosque is open to tourist every day.

The Entrance fee for the Gaddafi mosque in Uganda is 5 US Dollars or 15,000 Uganda Shillings for international tourists. Nationals pay 10,000 Uganda shillings. Students pay between 1,000 to 5,000 Shillings depending on whether they are in primary, secondary or University level.

The Uganda National Mosque is open to everyone regardless of cultural, religious or political background. While at the Uganda National Mosque premises, visitors are required to dress appropriately to honor the place of worship.

Women are required to dress up in clothes that are loose and cover all parts of the body. Women must wear a veil while at the Uganda National Mosque. In case a female visitor does not have a veil, they can get one at the front office for free. It must The Gaddafi Mosque in Uganda be returned to the office before leaving the mosque.

Men are also required to dress decently.  They must put on trousers and shirts that cover the full arms. All visitors will be required to leave their foot wear outside the entrance of the mosque to show respect to the holy ground.

In a nutshell, the Gaddafi mosque is an excellent place to visit even though they now call it the Uganda National Mosque. You can visit the mosque if you wish to attend prayers, get beautiful views of Kampala or if you are curious about the Colonel Muammar Gaddafi.

 The mosque can be visited at any time of the year and by anyone ready to follow the rules set at the site. Accommodation for visitors can be found in form of hotels and cottages from within the city center.