Located at Kampala Hill in the Old Kampala area of Kampala, Uganda, the Uganda National Mosque—previously known as the Gaddafi National Mosque—stands as the largest mosque in East Africa. For travelers exploring the region, visiting this imposing landmark offers a fascinating look into a country where 13.7% of the population was Muslim as of 2014. Originally begun by Idi Amin in 1972 as the Old Kampala National Mosque, construction halted in 1976 and stalled after Amin was deposed in 1979.
In 2001, former Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi stepped in to help complete the site as a gift to Uganda, leading to its official opening in June 2007. It was later renamed in 2013 under a new Libyan administration. When you visit, you will witness an architectural marvel built to accommodate up to 15,000 worshipers, alongside a gallery holding 1,100 people and a sahn catering to another 3,500.
The structure also houses the head offices of the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council. You cannot miss the towering 50.5-metre (166 ft) minaret, which proudly defines the city's skyline and features 272 stairs leading up to the top.
What to see at Kampala Mosque
- Largest mosque in East Africa, located atop Kampala Hill
- Features a towering 50.5-metre (166 ft) minaret defining the skyline
- Minaret contains 272 stairs to reach the top
- Accommodates upCloud to 15,000 worshipers, plus 1,100 in the gallery and 3,500 in the sahn
- Houses the head offices of the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council
Visiting tips
Be prepared to climb the 272 stairs inside the 50.5-metre minaret to reach the top.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
Kampala Mosque is easy to reach on Kampala’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Kasubi Tombs. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Kampala travel guide.
See the full Kampala travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.