Yosef Kibita, a member of Uganda’s Abayudaya Jewish community, has finally become an Israeli citizen after a seven-year legal battle and four conversion processes. His application for citizenship, which was first submitted in 2018, was approved by Israel’s Interior Ministry this month.
The Abayudaya community, consisting of about 2,000 Ugandans who have been practicing Judaism for a century, faced rejection from Israeli authorities in the past. The group’s origins trace back to Ugandan statesman Semei Kakungulu, who declared himself Jewish and started adopting Jewish traditions. The Israeli government has classified the Abuyadaya as an “emerging” Jewish group, requiring conversion for citizenship eligibility.
Kibita underwent conversion through the Conservative movement, which began overseeing conversions for the Abayudaya in 2002. Despite facing several challenges in the process, including multiple conversions and a nine-month study period, he persevered and was finally granted Israeli citizenship. Kibita expressed his joy and deep connection to Israel and the Jewish world upon receiving the news.
Rabbi Andrew Sacks, who oversaw Kibita’s Conservative conversion in Uganda and passed away recently, was remembered for his dedication to religious pluralism in Israel. Kibita’s citizenship marks a significant milestone for non-Orthodox converts in Israel, highlighting the importance of recognizing diverse Jewish communities and conversions performed with genuine faith and commitment.
This victory is not just for Yosef Kibita but for all who support pluralistic and inclusive Judaism. It signifies the acceptance of different Jewish communities worldwide and the validity of conversions based on sincere belief and dedication.