Old Kampala/Gaddafi Mosque

Crowning one of Kampala’s highest peaks, the Gaddafi Mosque stands as a beacon of faith, history, and architectural beauty. From its summit, a stunning panorama of the city’s seven hills unfolds, where colonial-era buildings blend with sleek modern skyscrapers, reflecting the golden African sun. Below, the city pulses with life—roads buzzing with vehicles and pedestrians in an intricate dance of organized chaos.

Perched on a historic hill, the mosque’s site is steeped in the origins of Kampala. In the late 1880s, the area was a wilderness full of antelopes, inspiring British settlers to name it Camp Impala. Over time, the name evolved into Kampala, a reminder of the city’s wild roots.
The mosque itself is an architectural marvel, blending African and Islamic artistry. Its marble façade gleams in the sun, while towering minarets rise elegantly, adorned with intricate carvings. Inside, high domed ceilings and delicate arabesque patterns create an atmosphere of reverence, enhanced by the scent of polished wood and incense.

Originally envisioned by President Idi Amin in 1972 as a symbol of Islamic unity, the mosque’s construction halted after his downfall. It wasn’t until the late Libyan leader, Colonel Muammar Gaddafi, took on the project, transforming it into one of East Africa’s largest mosques.
Today, the Gaddafi Mosque is a cultural landmark, welcoming visitors of all faiths. Guided tours offer insight into its history, intricate design, and symbolic meaning. To visit is to experience the convergence of faith, art, and history—a place where the past and present meet in harmony.