From The Africa Federation Archives

1. Introduction of Swahili Marshia during Ashura Procession - Mombasa

2. Photographs of Muharam in Tanga

SWAHILI MARSHIYA IN MOMBASA'S ASHURA PROCESSION

For the last 25 years, in Mombasa on the eve of Ashura (10 'Muharram) the procession is organized but this year there were noticeable changes. Firstly during the procession, every year the "marshia" (poems) are recited in "Urdu" and for the last five years some Arabic marshia have been recited. This year in addition to these, four Swahili marshia were recited for which some compliments were received. It was the first time in the history of Mombasa that Swahili poems were recited.

Letters of appreciation were received from many parties, we are quoting below the contents of Provisional Commissioner (P.C) - Mr. Masud Abdullah's letter: -

“For many years we have been observing your community holding processions but I did not understand or know its concept but this year through Swahili poems I with my colleagues understood the meaning very well and its my sincere hope you will continue reciting Swahili poems every year. Imam Husayn is for the whole Muslim Umma.  By reciting Urdu poems the message is not reached to the public and it's our humble request let Husayn's mission be accomplished through recitation of Swahili poems.”

The second change was that the "alam" was bound in white (like shroud) instead of the normal "'pacheri". Together with this the Sunni scholars (ulema) participated in the procession. Three Swahili poems were recited by the indigenous people and one was recited by a community member.

Thirdly the whole program was aired in the voice of Kenya Television together with Swahili commentary as well as Swahili poems.

We hope wherever the processions are held, recitation of Swahili is encouraged through which the meaning of "Azadari" and Husayn's sacrifice is understood and reaches the hearts of the indigenous people.

Translated by F. Ali

Retrieved from Federation Samachar of July 1966                                                                                                                                      

MUHARRAM IN TANGA
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