Rahiyane Noor: The Journey of Light – The Focus on Arbaeen in Iraq

The Africa Youth Network (AYN) is thrilled to announce the "Rahiyane Noor" project, a groundbreaking initiative that seeks to reignite the spirit of Arbaeen among the youth.

This initiative, starting on August 15, 2024, and running until Arbaeen, is designed to bridge the gap between the younger generation and the profound spiritual essence of this sacred journey. Arbaeen, a pilgrimage that holds immense significance for millions around the world, is an endeavor that seeks to keep alive the movement of Karbala, to safeguard and promote human values of love, justice and compassion. Its appeal cuts across the barriers of religion, caste, color and creed.

Rahiyane Noor aims to rekindle the connection between the youth and the timeless teachings of Imam Hussain (‘A), guiding them on a path of self-discovery and spiritual enlightenment.The vision of the project is to strengthen the youth’s connection with Allah (SWT) through the beloved grandson of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAWW).A total of 45 youths have registered for this Journey of Light and will be guided by the AYN team leaders, Br. Sajid Dhalla, Br. Shabbarali Khimji and Sr. Shifa Asharia.

The walk will be in 3 phases:

1.  Najaf: The journey begins in Najaf. Each participant will receive a Rahiyane Noor Passport (sample provided below), a unique guide filled with activities, reflections, and essential information about the Ziyarah.This Passport will serve as a companion throughout the journey, ensuring that the youth remain engaged and focused on the spiritual objective of the journey.

2.  Arbaeen Walk: As the participants embark on the Arbaeen Walk from Wadi Al-Salaam in Najaf-e-Ashraf. Along the route, the youth will have the chance to serve the visitors of Imam Hussain (‘A) at various Mawkibs, offering food, water, and support to those making the walk. Each act of service will be documented in their Rahiyane Noor Passport, symbolizing their commitment to the values of humility and service to the Zawars of the Imam.This practical involvement is intended to deepen their connection to the Arbaeen experience, transforming the pilgrimage from a mere journey into a meaningful expression of faith, devotion and service to humanity.

3.  Karbala: Upon reaching Karbala, the heart of the Arbaeen pilgrimage, the Rahiyane Noor project will enter its most intensive phase. Here, participants will engage in various curated workshops led by esteemed scholars. These sessions by Sheikh Nadir Hirji, Sheikh Mohammed Hilli, Sheikh Yassir Alidina and Sister Sumaiya Muntazir will focus on exploring deeper aspects of faith, self-discovery, and the teachings of the Ahlulbayt (‘A) and the mission of Imam Hussain (‘A). 

 The workshops will encourage the youth to reflect on their relationship with Allah (SWT), their purpose as Muslims, and how they can embody the principles of justice, sacrifice, and compassion in their daily lives. Additionally, the youth may be able to participate in healthcare camps, sabeels, and other service activities organized by local groups. Along with this there is a treasure hunt that has been organized for the youth in and around the haram to understand the Holy shrines in Karbala better.

Rahiyane Noor Passport:  At the core of this project is the Rahiyane Noor passport, an innovative tool that encapsulates the essence of the journey. This passport is more than just a keepsake; it is a guide that will accompany the youth throughout the pilgrimage, providing structured activities and reflections designed to deepen their understanding of Allah (SWT) and their faith. The Passport includes detailed information about the Ziyarah, the locations of Mawkibs where they can serve, and other essential details that will help the youth make the most of their experience. By completing the activities and reflections in the passport, the youth will be encouraged to engage with the pilgrimage on a deeper level, ensuring that the lessons they learn during Arbaeen stay with them long after the journey ends.

The AYN Rahiyane Noor project seeks to help young people reconnect with their faith and purpose as Muslims by deepening their understanding of Allah (SWT) through the teachings of Imam Hussain (‘A). This initiative is a step towards empowering the youth to carry the spirit of Arbaeen into their daily lives.

As we embark on this sacred journey, the AYN team humbly requests your prayers (duas) for the success of Rahiyane Noor. We pray that through our collective efforts, our Ziyarah is accepted, and that each step we take brings us closer to the divine light of Imam Hussain (‘A) and strengthens our bond with Allah (SWT). May this journey be a source of guidance, inspiration, and spiritual growth for all involved.

We wish to thank most sincerely the Africa Federation office bearers for their guidance, cooperation and for the financial support towards this project, with the success of this project, Insha’allah we hope to make this an annual event for our youth.

Secretariat

Africa Youth Network (AYN)

AFED Appoints Alhaj Kausar Jeraj to The World Federation Conduct Task Force

Africa Federation Secretariat is pleased to announce the appointment of Alhaj Kausar Jeraj as the AFED Representative to the World Federation Conduct Task Force Team.

The World Federation Conduct Task Force led by Dr. Akber Mithani was formed with a mandate to draft a comprehensive set of measures and policies to ensure safeguarding at all levels of our community, with a clear strategy for implementation. 

Kausar bhai was born in Songea, the Southwestern Region of Tanzania. The family then moved to Dar es Salaam where Kausar completed his primary and secondary education and then pursued his further education and obtained a Diploma in Business Administration. This foundation has supported his professional journey as a realtor, where he has gained extensive experience in wealth management and has successfully managed his own business ventures. Kausar bhai is married and blessed with three children. 

Over the past 40 years, Kausar bhai has been deeply involved in social work with the Khoja Shia Ithna-Asheri Jamaat of Dar es Salaam. His commitment to community service has led him to hold various key positions within the organization. He has served as the Joint Secretary of the Dr-es-Salaam Jamaat and also led the Mayyit Committee, Marriage Support, and Arbitration Committees at various times. Currently, Kausar bhai serves as the Chair of the Disputes and Mediation Committee of Dar-es-Salaam Jamaat and is a Dar-es-Salaam Jamaat elected Councilor for the Africa Federation.

In addition to his professional and social commitments, Kausar bhai has a keen passion for sports. He has been an active participant in cricket, squash, swimming and is now a regular golfer, maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle. His varied experiences across professional, social, and recreational spheres reflect a well-rounded and fulfilling life dedicated to personal growth and community development.

On behalf of the Africa Federation Chairman and my fellow office bearers we pray for Kausar Bhai’s good health and wish him success in this important role he will be undertaking, Aameen. 

Zuhair Jaffer

Hon Secretary

Obituary - Alhaj Sherali Mohammedali Ladak Kanji

CIRCULAR NO: JMT/142/24                                                Date:  July 27, 2024

 In the Name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful

Inna Lillahi Wa Inna Ilayhi Rajeeun

 “To Allah we belong and to Him we shall return”

(Holy Qur’an, Surah Al Baqarah 2:156) 

Marhum Alhaj Sherali Mohammedali Ladak Kanji

It is with deep sadness that the Africa Federation Secretariat received the news of the demise of Alhaj Sherali bhai Mohammedali Ladak who passed away in Dar es Salaam on Friday 26th July 2024 and was buried in Moshi, Tanzania, his home town.

Sherali bhai was the son of Marhum Mohamed Ali Ladak Kanji and Marhuma Zainab bai Nanji Karim, and lived in Moshi.

Marhum Sherali bhai Ladak’s services to the community in Moshi has been diverse and vast.  He served with dedication as a Madressah teacher for about 10 years.  He was a Mu’adhin for the daily Fajr prayers for 50 years and a member of Kafan Dafan committee for about 40 years.  He also served as the Chairman of Jamaat Matrimonial Committee for several years.

He served as the Chairman of Moshi Jamaat for more than 10 years and during his tenure, the Jamaat dispensary in Moshi was established. This dispensary, now known as Jaffery Charitable Medical Services Clinic, has since grown into a full-fledged well-equipped Clinic with some modern equipment serving the residents of Moshi. 

His concern towards humanity and fellow community members was evident in his personal efforts to take sick patients arriving from different regions for treatment at Machame Hospital which was a renowned hospital at that time.

Marhum Sherali Ladak was an active sportsman who not only participated in various sports himself but also consistently encouraged and supported the youth to engage in sporting activities.

We convey our heartfelt condolences to Marhum’s son, Alhaj Muhammad bhai Sherali Ladak, who is the Vice Chairman of Moshi Jamaat, and all the family members during this difficult time.  We pray that they find comfort in the cherished memories and carry forward Marhum’s profound legacy which he leaves behind.

We pray to Allah (SWT) to grant Marhum maghferat and place his soul amongst the blessed ones in the vicinity of the Chahardah Ma’sumeen (AS), and who continuously receive the mercy and grace of Allah (SWT), and give his family solace and strength to bear this irreplaceable loss in the family, Ameen.

Sura-Al-Fateha is requested for Marhum Sherali bhai Ladak and all the past leaders and volunteers of our community who have served our community in various capacities and who are no longer with us in this transient world and for all the Marhumeen.

SECRETARIAT