Uganda has secured a major International honour after being selected among only five countries worldwide for the prestigious Islamic University of Madinah Distinguished Alumni Award – Fifth Edition (1447 AH / 2026).
The award was conferred during the 62nd Graduation Ceremony of the Islamic University of Madinah on 27 April 2026, under the patronage of Prince Salman bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Governor of Al-Madinah Region.The recognition comes through Uganda’s own Amb. Dr. Rashid Yahya Ssemuddu, (currently Ambassador to the Republic of Sudan) whose outstanding achievements have placed the nation alongside France, United Kingdom, Philippines, Suriname and Príncipe in this year’s elite global list.
Amb. Dr. Ssemuddu was selected out of more than 150,000 Alumni’s for the Social Impact Award which is granted to alumni who have made a clear and meaningful contribution to society through community service, volunteer work, and humanitarian initiatives in recognition of his exceptional academic excellence, da’wah work, community service, and exemplary representation of the University and its alumni across the world.
The other categories were:
- Professional Achievement & Sustainable Development Award
- Innovation & Entrepreneurship Award
- Scientific Impact Award
- Intellectual Awareness Award
This award is a proud moment for Uganda, reflecting the country’s rising influence in scholarship, diplomacy, humanitarian service, and international leadership. Dr. Ssemuddu is widely respected for representing Uganda as an effective diplomat and for championing educational, social, and charitable causes both locally and abroad. His latest recognition now places Uganda firmly among the world’s most celebrated nations in the global community of excellence and leadership.
As celebrations begin ahead of the ceremony in Madinah, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs views the award as a symbol of national excellence, faith-driven leadership, and global respect.
