Nakawa, Kampala — The 36th death anniversary of the late Imam Ruhollah Khomeini, the founder of the Islamic Republic of Iran, was solemnly commemorated at Makerere University Business School (MUBS), drawing together diplomats, scholars, religious leaders, and students in a spirited call for cultural understanding, academic cooperation, and resistance against global injustice.

The event, moderated by Hon. Issah Katungulu Luyimbaazi, the African Youth Ambassador, brought together distinguished guests, including H.E. Mr. Majid Saffar, Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to Uganda, Mr. Namuguzi of the Kenya High Commission, representatives from UNICEF and IUIU (Female Campus), Hon. Asuman Basalirwa, the leader of the Parliamentary Muslim Caucus, and a host of senior academic and religious leaders.

In his keynote address, Ambassador Majid Saffar paid glowing tribute to Imam Khomeini’s vision, characterising him as “not just the father of a revolution, but a voice for the oppressed and a defender of global peace.”

He described Imam Khomeini’s leadership as one rooted in the values of the Holy Qur’an, aimed at promoting justice without domination, and warned against the humanitarian crisis in Palestine, blaming the Zionist regime of Israel for what he termed “systematic aggression and denial of basic human dignity.”

He reiterated Iran’s readiness to share advancements in science, technology, and education with the Global South, including Uganda.

Echoing these sentiments, Mr. Abdollah Abbasi, Cultural Counsellor at the Iranian Embassy, said Imam Khomeini’s legacy continues to inspire those who value justice, rational leadership, and solidarity.

“Imam Khomeini taught the world the importance of Quds Day, celebrated in Ramadan, to show support for Palestine and oppressed nations worldwide,” he noted.

Representing the Principal of MUBS, Dr. Ahmed Walugembe, Head of Marketing and Media Studies, upheld the university’s long-standing relationship with the Iranian embassy, confirming that discussions are underway to formalise cultural and academic exchange agreements.

“We acknowledge Iran’s historical outreach to Africa, particularly in education and healthcare. Imam Khomeini’s contributions laid a foundation for meaningful cooperation,” he said.

He extended thanks to Sheikh Muhammad Ali Waiswa, Deputy Mufti of Uganda, and Dr. Celestine Katongole, head of the MUBS tourism department, for their role in deepening bilateral academic engagements.

Dr. Katongole, who had previously visited Iran with a delegation of Ugandan scholars, shared his first-hand experience of the country, dispelling commonly held misconceptions.

“What we saw in Iran was a society defined by discipline, organisation, innovation, and cultural richness—far from the image portrayed by Western media,” he observed.

He called on Ugandan traders to explore economic ties with Iran, citing quality products at affordable prices.

Meanwhile, Dr. Owen Kembabazi, a lecturer at MUBS who represented Uganda at the International Women’s Congress in Iran, called for increased exchange programs to bridge cultural divides and empower Ugandan women through global dialogue.

Dr. Assadi, a lecturer from Al-Mustafa Islamic College in Kyengera, offered a scholarly reflection on Imam Khomeini’s contributions to Islamic unity, governance, and resistance to tyranny.

He noted, “Imam Khomeini’s vision of Islamic democracy, cultural revolution, and strategic awakening is a model worth emulating by today’s leaders.”

Sheikh Muhammad Ali Waiswa, the Deputy Mufti of Uganda, thanked the organisers and urged attendees to learn from the life and values of Imam Khomeini. “As Muslims and citizens of the world, we are called to emulate such individuals who lived simply, yet reshaped the world through faith and knowledge. Iran remains a beacon of scientific and technological advancement despite relentless propaganda and sanctions,” he said.

He also emphasised Iran’s unwavering support for the Palestinian cause and encouraged Africans to remember Palestine’s solidarity during the apartheid struggle in South Africa.

“Imam Khomeini introduced a governance model neither aligned with East nor West—a bold stance in an era dominated by global powers.”

In a rare appearance, Hon. Asuman Basalirwa, MP and leader of the Muslim Caucus in Parliament, reflected on his own journey of integrating faith and politics.

He lauded Imam Khomeini as a symbol of servant leadership, noting, “He taught us that simplicity doesn’t undermine effectiveness. Many of today’s leaders seek extravagance at the expense of those they serve.”

Basalirwa challenged Ugandans to rise above foreign misinformation and instead seek their own truths about global partners like Iran. “Despite economic sanctions, Iran has built infrastructure, enhanced self-sufficiency, and continues to extend educational opportunities to other nations.”

The commemoration began with a heartfelt opening prayer by Sheikh Buye Hussein, a teacher from Imam Reza School in Kiteezi, and saw participation from several institutions, including Islamic University in Uganda (Female Campus), Excel Vocational Training Centre, Metropolitan International University, Swadiq Centre in Luwafu, and Markazi Imam Reza School.

Attendees described the event as deeply insightful, with many noting the need for more spaces where African and Islamic narratives can be shared free from external biases.

The legacy of Imam Khomeini, 36 years on, continues to resonate not only in the Islamic Republic of Iran but also among communities across Africa committed to justice, self-determination, and transformative leadership.