The Kariisa family, together with Salam Charity and members of the local community, welcomed the New Year with prayers and a family reunion at their home in Ruhaama, Ntungamo District, marking the start of 2026 with reflection, remembrance, and community support.
The annual gathering brought together Muslim leaders, district officials, local authorities, friends, and residents for prayers in honour of departed family members who played a significant role in community development, most notably the late Dr Abdul Anasi Kariisa.
He was remembered for his selfless service to society and his contribution to the Muslim community, including translating the Quran into Runyankore to make Islamic teachings more accessible to local believers.
Speaking at the event, Muslim leaders reflected on the importance of legacy and service. Hassim Kaduyu, a Muslim leader, urged people to live lives that would be remembered for positive impact, saying what remains after death is the good one does for others.
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District leaders noted that Dr Kariisa's values continue to be reflected in the family's ongoing work. They said the principles he stood for have multiplied through the family's commitment to education, discipline, and regional development.
Family members said Dr. Kariisa emphasised three guiding pillars in life: education, discipline, and service to the community, values they continue to instil in the younger generation.
The Commissioner at the Electoral Commission, Mustapha Kigozi Ssebagala, who attended the function, urged community members to live purpose-driven lives anchored in integrity and service.
"As human beings, we all have an obligation to do something that will remain even after we are gone. It takes commitment for a family to recognise the needs of their community and act when they have the ability, as the Kariisa family has done," Kigozi said.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Next Media Group Chief Executive Officer Kin Kariisa thanked the district leadership, Muslim community, local authorities, friends, and relatives for their continued support during the annual January 1 commemoration.
"We gather on January 1 to remember our ancestors who are laid to rest here. In Islam, the greatest benefit we can give them is prayer, and that is why this day is important to us," he said.
As part of their community give-back, the family distributed Qurans translated into Runyankore and clothing to support the Muslim faithful.
District leaders also addressed land challenges affecting the Muslim community, including disputes in Kyafora, assuring residents that the issues are being handled.
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Ntungamo District chairperson Samuel Rwakigoba Muchunguzi said concerns over land interference had been resolved, assuring residents of government support in safeguarding community land.
The event concluded with the commissioning of a water project at Nyakahita, supported by the Kariisa family in partnership with Salam Charity.
Similar water projects have also been implemented in Kafunjo and Nyarwanya to improve access to clean water and complement government efforts.
Deputy Resident District Commissioner Rosemary Atuhaire said the projects have addressed long-standing water challenges in several areas of the district, thanking the family for their intervention.
Salam Charity chairman Mohamed Kalisa said the organisation remains committed to giving back to communities, noting recent support for a maternity ward in Rubaare and the launch of water projects benefiting residents of Nyakahita and Rwengoma.
