By Angela Batuli
Religious leaders in Kagera region have urged government leaders to organize regular meetings with them to discuss ways to address emerging challenges that could lead to disruption of peace, a national treasure.
The leaders made the call during a prayer and interfaith service to pray for the nation and the region, held during the launch of the Ijuka Omuka (Remember Home) conference organized by Kagera Regional Commissioner Hajati Fatma Mwassa to promote economic opportunities in the region.
Sheikh Abdulshahid Abbas, a leader of Answari Suna, said religious leaders are entrusted with ensuring people are guided towards heaven and not hell, and that a good teacher teaches students to protect their country's peace, and good parents fulfill their responsibilities.
He said all religious books promote unity, love for one's country, and gratitude for God's blessings, and that there is no worse devil than someone who incites youth to destroy their country's resources.
"I advise government leaders to establish a mechanism for regular meetings with us to address issues affecting our people before they escalate and harm the nation. When crises arise, it's wise to remain silent and pray to God, as that's the greatest wisdom."
Father Philibart Mutalemwa, head of the Catholic Church's lay apostolate in Bukoba Diocese, and Pastor Ayub Silvester of CPCT, prayed for Kagera residents and Tanzanians to protect the country's peace, shun discrimination, and promote love and respect.
Kagera Regional Commissioner Hajati Fatma Mwassa urged residents to reject divisive tendencies and protect national unity, saying she will strongly condemn anyone promoting religious, ethnic, or gender-based divisions.
She also called on Kagera residents to be peace ambassadors, given the region's past experiences with conflict, including the 1978-79 Kagera War, the MV Bukoba ferry tragedy, and earthquakes, and to remain vigilant and prayerful.