It is the largest mosque in East Africa[1] in a country where, as of 2014, 13.7% of the population is Muslim.

[2] Completed in 2006, it accommodates up to 15,000 worshipers and can hold another 1,100 in the gallery, while the terrace will cater for another 3,500. former Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi commissioned the mosque as a gift to Uganda, and for the benefit of the Muslim population.

Construction halted in 1976 during a period of heightened political instability, and in 1979, after Amin was deposed, it seemed like the mosque's fate had been sealed but in 2001, Gaddafi expressed willingness to help complete it as a gift to Islamic faith in Uganda.

[1] The completed mosque was opened officially in June 2007 under the name Gaddafi National Mosque, and housed the head offices of the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council.

"[5] The mosque's minaret contains 272 stairs to reach the top.