Sheikh Musa Sindayigaya Elected as New Mufti of Rwanda

By The Inspirer.

Sheikh Musa Sindayigaya, the newly elected Mufti of Rwanda, has pledged to initiate development projects for the Muslim community, aiming for self-reliance and unity.

On Sunday, May 26, representatives of the Rwanda Muslim Community gathered in Kigali to elect new leaders. Sheikh Sindayigaya was elected unopposed after Sheikh Salim Hitimana, the outgoing Mufti, withdrew from the race at the last minute.

Sheikh Sindayigaya, from Kamonyi District, will be supported by Deputy Mufti Sheikh Yunusu Mushumba. The elections, initially scheduled for 2020, were delayed due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

At 43 years old, Sheikh Sindayigaya is married with three children. He was a member of the outgoing national executive committee of the Rwanda Muslim Community, where he oversaw finance and planning. His leadership roles in Islam date back to 2003.

Sheikh Sindayigaya holds a Bachelor’s degree in Islamic studies, a postgraduate diploma in public administration, and a Master’s degree in public administration management from Saudi Arabia. He is also pursuing a PhD in leadership and governance.

“I have three priorities during my tenure: unity of Muslims, development projects for self-reliance, and good governance and accountability,” he said.

He also emphasized the importance of eradicating radicalism within the community. “The Muslim community must contribute to rebuilding the country, and we encourage participation in the forthcoming elections.”

Outgoing Mufti Sheikh Salim Hitimana highlighted the community’s achievements over the past eight years.

“We constructed over 120 mosques and are building modern markets, commercial houses in Rubavu and Rusizi, and schools in Rwamagana, Kicukiro, and Musanze. Saudi Arabia will also help us build the Mosque of Excellence in Kigali,” he said.

Additional projects include the construction of the headquarters of the Muslim community in Rwanda. “The unity of the Muslim community is being strengthened,” Hitimana added.

The newly elected Qadhi, or Muslim judges, are Sheikh Ibrahim Segisekure, Sheikh Hussein Biziyaremye as Deputy Qadhi, and Musa Her.

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