The Uganda Muslim Community is in mourning following the passing of Sheikh Ishaaq Naminya, a senior Muslim cleric, Mentor to Generations of Muslim Clerics and a respected member of the Shuura Council. Sheikh Naminya died on the morning of January 23, 2026, at Bugiri Hospital after a brief illness attributed to natural causes.
Sheikh Naminya was widely regarded as a devoted, principled, and selfless leader who dedicated his entire life to the service of Islam. His death has been described as a significant loss not only to his family but also to the broader Muslim community in Uganda, where he was admired for his wisdom, humility, and unwavering commitment to nurturing future generations of clerics.
In a condolence message, the Mufti of Uganda, Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, expressed deep sorrow over the passing of a close friend, advisor, and colleague.
“Sheikh Ishaaq Naminya was not only a close friend and trusted advisor to me, but also an invaluable resource to the entire Muslim community. His passing marks a great loss, especially in terms of his vast experience, which he selflessly shared to support and mentor younger Muslim clerics in the propagation of Islam,” Mufti Mubaje said.
A resident of Mbale, Sheikh Naminya’s service to Islam spanned several decades. He began his clerical journey at a young age after graduating under the tutelage of the late Sheikh Swaib Ssemakula, Uganda’s first Mufti, in the late 1950s. From those early years, he distinguished himself as a dedicated scholar and community leader whose influence steadily grew across the country.
Before joining the Shuura Council, Sheikh Naminya was a prominent member of the UMSC Majlis Al Ulama (Council of Eminent Sheikhs), a body mandated with the critical responsibility of appointing the Mufti and his deputies. He represented the Eastern Region during the era of distinguished Muslim leaders, including the late Sheikh Kassim Mulumba, Sheikh Hussein Rajab Kakooza, Sheikh Saad Ibrahim Luwemba, and the late Sheikh Muhammad Ssemakula.
Although he later retired from active service under the current UMSC administration, Sheikh Naminya remained an influential voice and a revered elder within the Muslim community. His counsel continued to shape important discussions, and his example served as a moral compass for many younger clerics.
In his message, Mufti Mubaje prayed to Allah to grant Sheikh Naminya eternal peace and forgiveness in recognition of his lifelong devotion and service. He also prayed for strength, patience, and unity for the bereaved family during this period of grief.
Sheikh Ishaaq Naminya was barried in Busoga on 23rd January 2026. His death has left a profound void in Uganda’s Muslim community. He will be remembered as a tireless servant of Islam, a mentor to many, and a leader whose legacy of faith, integrity, and service will endure for generations to come.