Hadiyyah Namatovu Makes History as First Female Winner of Omumanyi wa Salam TV Competition

On March 9, 2025, Hadiyyah Namatovu made history by becoming the first female winner of the Omumanyi wa Salam TV competition, breaking a four-year streak of male champions. The exciting finale, held at Fairway Hotel Kampala, was attended by notable dignitaries, including Dr. Kin Kariisa, CEO of Next Media Group, and Hajjat Sharifah Buzeki, Executive Director of Kampala Capital City Authority, among others.

Namatovu, who demonstrated impressive Islamic and general knowledge throughout the competition, emerged as the winner, earning the prestigious title of Omumanyi wa Salam TV. As part of her prize, she was awarded a fully funded Hijja pilgrimage to Makkah and Madinah, courtesy of Muzaata Hijja and Umrah Services.

The Omumanyi wa Salam TV campaign, which is in its fifth year, seeks to promote knowledge, critical thinking, and faith among Muslim youth. Over 50 participants initially registered for the competition, with four finalists making it to the grand finale. The runners-up, Lutaaya Huzairu, Kakomi Farooq, and Bulobe Muhammad Harunah, also walked away with valuable prizes, including land titles, mattresses, and TV sets.

Dr. Kin Kariisa, CEO of Next Media Group, expressed his excitement about the campaign’s success and announced a special gift for the winner through Hajji Karim Kaliisa. He also praised the event's sponsors, acknowledging their role in making the campaign a success and highlighting the importance of partnerships in fostering positive change.

Hajji Karim Kaliisa, one of the event's key organizers, also took the opportunity to thank the loyal sponsors and partners, including Sumz Snacks, Movit Products Uganda, Salam Bank Uganda, Info Trust Property Consultants, Salam Charity, Prestige Margarine, and Muzaata Hijja & Umrah Services, among others.

Hajjat Sharifah Buzeki commended the initiative for promoting education, critical thinking, and Islamic values. She congratulated the participants, organizers, and sponsors, stressing the importance of empowering minds, strengthening values, and uplifting society through knowledge.

In recognition of their hard work and dedication, all participants received gifts from Euroflix, Prestige Margarine, Sumz Snacks, Movit Products Uganda, Salam Charity, and Salam Bank.

The success of the Omumanyi wa Salam TV competition serves as a testament to the power of collaboration and community engagement in driving educational and societal progress, while also empowering Muslim youth to embrace both faith and knowledge.