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Reflections on the JISRA Training in Uganda: Advancing Religious Literacy and Freedom of Religion and Belief

A reflective piece by Oringo Amwom, Program Manager at Chemchemi Ya Ukweli, on the ‘Joint Initiative for Strategic Religious Action’ (JISRA) Islam and FoRB Training in Kampala, Uganda.  

Between the 4th and 6th of March 2025, Oringo Amwomo participated in a transformative training on advancing religious literacy of Islam and Freedom of Religion and Belief (FoRB) in Kampala, Uganda. The training brought together over 25 participants from three countries—Ethiopia, Kenya, and Uganda—each of whom had prior knowledge of FoRB, having been actively involved in the implementation of the Dutch-funded ‘Joint Initiative for Strategic Religious Action (JISRA)’ project. Organized by the Network for Religious and Traditional Peacemakers in collaboration with Finn Church Aid, this event strengthened the capacity of JISRA implementing partners and local peace practitioners in understanding the nuances of Islam and its relationship with religious freedom.

As a seasoned practitioner in peacebuilding and governance, Oringo found this training to be an eye-opening experience. Coming from a Christian Catholic background, he initially approached the subject with curiosity but soon discovered the depth of Islamic teachings on diversity, pluralism, and human rights. Through interactive sessions and discussions, he gained a richer understanding of the different schools of thought within Islam, each contributing uniquely to theological discourse and societal interactions. This broadened his perspective on religious coexistence and the importance of nurturing mutual respect among faith communities.

Aggrey Oringo Amwomo with other participants at the JISRA training in Kampala, Uganda. March 2025.

One of the most impactful moments for Oringo was engaging with the Marrakesh Declaration, which champions the rights of religious minorities in Muslim-majority lands. This declaration, rooted in Islamic principles, reinforced his appreciation for the intersection of faith and human rights. He saw how Islamic teachings, when properly understood, align with the universal principles of justice and religious freedom.

Beyond the theoretical insights, the training provided an invaluable opportunity for interfaith dialogue and networking. Oringo relates to like-minded individuals who share a commitment to advancing religious literacy and promotion peaceful coexistence. Inspired by this experience, he made a personal commitment to disseminate the knowledge he gained, ensuring that the principles of diversity, tolerance, and religious freedom reach a broader audience within his work and community.

Oringo’s journey through this training exemplifies the power of education in bridging religious divides and enhancing interfaith harmony. With a renewed sense of purpose, he is now more equipped than ever to contribute meaningfully to peacebuilding efforts, advocating for a world where religious diversity is not just tolerated but embraced.