Allamah Haji Naji - An Exemplary Life of Faith and Practice

It was in the year 1862 CE that a South Indian scholar by the name of Mulla Qadir Husein first came to Mumbai and established a madrassa, but soon left to go to Karbala. Upon a request by Ayatullah Mazandarani, during a chance visit of Haji Dewji Jamal, he once again came to Mumbai in 1872 CE to re-establish his madrassa. 

Thus, began early teachings of the school of Ahlul Bait [AS] amongst the Khojas, in the area known as Dongri today. It was not easy to practice the faith in those days, let alone preach. Mulla Qadir Husain had been threatened with his life and ultimately three people had to give their lives as a price for the Khojas accepting the Ja’afri faith. Yet this persistent muballigh, against all odds, carried his mission with persistence and tenacity. Such an illustrious teacher attracted a few brave students and amongst the most active and erudite was a boy called Gulamali. His father’s name was Ismailbhai and his mother’s name was Janbai. Originally from a small place in Gujarat, called Shihor, his father and grandfather had established a thriving business in handloom cloth and leather in Mumbai. It was here in Mumbai that Allah blessed a son to Ismailbhai and Janbai on 28th Safar 1297 (CE 1864), whom the Khoja Community today reveres as the Hilli of Gujarat, popularly known as Haji Naji. It is said that this little boy so adored his teacher Mulla Qadir, that whenever he saw that the teacher was about to go out, he would rush to bring him his shoes. Touched by this act Mulla Qadir once observed: “Today you lift up my shoes, a day will come will people will raise you in honour". 

Following a trip for Ziyarah with his parents in 1300 AH, the young Gulamali served as Imam e Jumuah in Malegaon, Maharashtra for about a year. During that time, he accompanied some scholars to visit Mahuva. Upon observing the pitiful religious state of the community there, he decided to make Gujarat his permanent home and thus began the most formative religious period of Khoja History. In addition to his speeches and majalis he began the foundational work of writing Gujarati religious literature with the establishment of Rahe-Najaat a monthly magazine in 1310 AH, which truly serves as Rahe Najat (path to salvation) today over a hundred years later. It is well-known that the impact of this magazine went far beyond Gujarat and was a major influence upon the emerging Khoja Shia Ithna-Asheri Community in Africa, Muscat, Burma and elsewhere where the Khojas had migrated. Gifted with persuasive oratory and a lucid pen, his sermons and words were simple but touched hearts of men. Through the columns of Rahe-Najaat and the hundreds of books he wrote and published in Gujarati, his words have transcended generations as much as oceans. 

In addition to towns and villages of Kutch and Kathiawad, his Dua no Majmuo and Gujarati Tafseer of the Qur’an are still read in Africa, Europe and North America. Just as his Majmuo runs parallel in importance to Mafatihul Jinan, in many Khoja homes, his book Mi’raju Sa'adah (Gujarati translation of the book of Mullah Ahmed Naraqi with the same name) is thought to have had a major impact in the lives of many of our brethren in India and East Africa at the time. Having avidly read the book in my youth, I can very much relate to that. Even today, his books have many readers in the UK, Europe, USA, and Canada. 

His personal life was truly an illustration of faith and practice. It was in the year 1351 AH that his printing press caught fire in the middle of the night and his life’s work with many manuscripts were destroyed in flames, not to mention the loss of some 50,000 Rupees, a colossal amount in those days. As the neighbours and well-wishers who gathered to console him, he calmly responded through the words of the hadith of the Prophet:  "After every forty days a momin is tested". 

To crown his sincerity and erudition, this luminary emerging from the nascent Khoja Shia Ithna-Asheri Community, Allamah Haji Naji, also had unique qualities of leadership, with a clear vision and goal. It would not be an overstatement to record that he was amongst the first and perhaps the foremost contribution to the preservation and promotion of the Shia Ithna-Asheri faith in the Khoja Society in its early days when the community needed it most. 

It is worth remembering that had it not been for his persistence and tenacity, the vibrant KSI Community, spread around the world, may not be what it is today. That is the debt of gratitude we are obliged to pay back by drawing inspiration from this notable figure in our history and continue his legacy.

Please recite Sura-e-Fateha for Marhum Allamah Haji Naji, his parents, students and all the Marhumeen who sacrificed their time, resources and life for the sake of Islam and for the Madh’ab of Ahlulbayt (‘A) – Al Fateha

For further information on Allamah Haji Naji:

Watch “The Life and Times of Haji Naji”

Read the “Monograph”

Books in Gujarati by Allamah Haji Naji are available from http://www.hajinaji.com

Article by Dr. Hasnain Walji

SECRETARIAT

ARCHIVES SECTION OF THE AFRICA FEDERATION

Date: 28^th November 2025 (7^th Jamadiul Akhar 1447 A.H.)

Appointment of the Africa Federation Tabligh Board (AFTAB) 2025 - 2028

CIRCULAR NO:  AFED/026/25                                  Date: November 27, 2025

The Africa Federation Chairman Alhaj Amine bhai Nassor is pleased to announce the re appointment of Alhaj Mulla Sajjad Walji of Mombasa as the Chairman of the Africa Federation Tabligh Board for the term 2025 – 2028.

Mulla Sajjad has appointed his team consisting of religious scholars and dedicated individuals who are enthusiastic about Tabligh across our Jamaats in Africa.

Alhaj Mulla Sajjad Walji – Chairman – Mombasa holds a Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Civil Engineering from the University of Nairobi. After a few years in the engineering field, he joined and continues to manage Auto Junction Limited, a spare parts business based in Mombasa.

Mulla Sajjad’s passion for Tabligh and community service has been evident throughout his life. He has served as a Madrasah teacher since 1985 and has been an active member of the Hilal and Funeral Committee of Mombasa Jamaat for over thirty years.

He was first appointed as Chairman of AFTAB in March 2021 and has led the Board since; a gifted speaker and scholar, Sajjad bhai has been reciting majlises since 2007 across various Jamaats, and is also known for offering marital counselling to couples in a personal capacity for the past 15 years.

His reappointment reflects the Africa Federation’s confidence in his leadership, dedication, and deep understanding of the religious and spiritual needs of the community, particularly in the realm of internal Tabligh and religious education.

Alhaj Sheikh Zuhair Jaffer – Vice Chairman – Nairobi possesses an extraordinary educational foundation. His deep commitment to learning is evident in his academic record.  He holds two bachelor's degrees with honors, two post-graduate diplomas, and one master's degree from the University of Sunderland. Furthermore, he is currently dedicated to furthering his expertise by pursuing both a second Master's degree and a PhD of Philosophy in Education.

He has served as the Assistant Secretary of the Nairobi Jamaat for the term 2012 - 2014 under the leadership of Alhaj Asif Bhai Karim and as the Hon. Secretary of the Africa Federation for two terms; 2019 – 2022 under the leadership of Alhaj Shabir Bhai Najafi and 2022 – 2025 under the leadership of Alhaj Amine Bhai Nassor.

Zuhair Bhai’s past experience and the knowledge acquired while serving the community in these positions over the years shall be an added advantage to the position he will assume following this appointment.

Sister Fatema Bai Chandoo Kermalli – Hon Secretary – Dar-es-Salaam is a committed community worker driven by a passion for nurturing spirituality and fostering an Islamic worldview within the community.

Sister Sakina Bai Hassanali – Hon Assistant Secretary – Nairobi is a passionate and community-driven individual. Her work reflects a strong commitment to leadership, creativity, and meaningful engagement. Having completed her A-Levels, AS-Level, and O-Levels in Nairobi, she is currently pursuing Montessori Studies to further her understanding of education and child development.

Sakina’s leadership journey has grown through her active involvement with the Nairobi community, where she has taken on several key roles. She currently serves as the Sayyidatun Nisaa Ladies Youth Head (2025–Present) and Head of the Ladies Media Team (2023/2025–Present), roles that have helped her strengthen her skills in organization, teamwork, and event coordination. She is also a dedicated member of the Ladies Sports Team (2022–Present), promoting collaboration, wellness, and empowerment through sports.

Alongside her community work, Sakina is a passionate Teacher at Haydari Madrasa Nairobi (2023–Present), where she enjoys nurturing young learners and encouraging a love for learning. She also contributed to social media efforts for Who is Hussain Nairobi (2024), collaborating on filmmaking and photography to share impactful messages and support community causes.

With experience in leadership, teamwork, event planning, and creative direction, Sakina brings creativity and purpose to everything she does. Guided by vision and a strong sense of community, she strives to inspire, educate, and lead with authenticity and impact.

Alhaj Sheikh Ali Rajani – Head of Guidance Council – Qum was born and raised in Dubai and is presently pursuing advanced Islamic scholarship at the level of Dars-e-Kharij in Qum while simultaneously undertaking a doctorate in Islamic Theology.

From an early stage, Sheikh Ali has been active in fulfilling the intellectual and spiritual needs of the jamaats in East Africa. His activities have spanned various segments of the community, from lecturing and teaching to spending informal time with youths in trips. Some of his current activities include heading the AFTAB Pre-University Course and contributing to the Marriage Board of Dar Tabligh. He is also the head of AFTAB's Guidance Council.

A founding member of the Bab al-Ridha Institute and the current head of BRisc (Bab al-Ridha Intensive Short Course), Sheikh Ali has developed immense experience in team leadership, project management and many other skills which, combined with his ongoing higher-level studies, make him an impactful scholar for the community.

Sheikh Ali's love for the Quran and the Ahlul Bayt, his critical thinking as well as his personable approach have enabled him to connect meaningfully with youth and present Islamic teachings in a way that is engaging and relevant to contemporary challenges.

Alhaj Sheikh Raheel Khimji – Head of Social Wellbeing – Qum born and raised in Nairobi, Kenya, moved to Qum to pursue Islamic studies at the Hawzah, where he is presently working on his Master's thesis focusing on Islam and Business.

With more than a decade of experience in the business world and a background in computer sciences, Sheikh Raheel works remotely in partnership with his brother, successfully running an auto repair facility. This professional journey has fueled his deep passion for integrating an Islamic perspective and values into the business practices of our community.

Sheikh Raheel is actively involved in serving the community alongside his studies, organizing many camps, courses and dedicating significant time to the youth. He is an active member of the AFED Pre-University course team and plays a key role in Bab al-Ridha Institute's intensive short course. He has initiated several projects within the institute, including the yearly Arbaeen Backpackers, and is continuously involved in teaching, mentoring and organizing various other programs. Sheikh Raheel has also conducted various seminars on Islamic family life and lifestyle, and continues to offer his knowledge and skills for the upliftment of the community.

Alhaj Hameed Bhai Sheriff – Head of Madrasah Sub Committee – Arusha is a seasoned community leader and educator with over four decades of experience in administration, teaching, and organizational development. Educated in Tanzania and Pakistan with a specialization in finance, he has also contributed significantly to the family’s agricultural business.

A devoted teacher throughout his life, Hameed bhai has played a pivotal role in advancing Madrasah education within the region. Since 2016, he has served as an Assessor for the World Federation Teachers Skills Program (TSP), and in 2021, he was elevated to the position of Lead Assessor. His passion for continuous professional growth is evident through his completion of numerous trainings and certifications in Islamic education, curriculum development, coaching, mentoring, and modern teaching methodologies.

Beyond teaching, he has actively served in various community institutions, including many years in regional cricket administration and involvement in social service groups. He has also supported the administration of Yadgar-e-Murtazawi Madrasah in Arusha. In 2022, Hameed bhai was appointed as the Head of Madrasah for the Africa Federation Tabligh Board (AFTAB), where he oversees administrative, instructional, and training support for Madrasahs across Africa, ensuring they remain aligned with contemporary educational standards.

Hameed bhai is known for his humility, discipline, and unwavering dedication in an inspiration to teachers and students alike through his mentorship, leadership, and lifelong service to the community.

Alhaj Dr. Mohamed Shabbir – Head of Thaqalayn – Dar-es-Salaam is an Orthopaedic doctor by Profession with immense passion for promoting Quran recitation and understanding within the community.

The AFED Secretariat extends its heartiest congratulations to Mulla Sajjad and his team on their appointment and wishes them success in the accomplishment of the Board’s goals and objectives set out for the term 2025 – 2028.

The Email contact of the Board is aftab@africafederation.org

Secretariat

Appointment of the Africa Youth Network (AYN) 2025 - 2028

CIRCULAR NO:   AFED/025/25                                Date: November 26, 2025 

APPOINTMENT OF THE AFRICA YOUTH NETWORK (AYN)

The Africa Federation Chairman Alhaj Amine bhai Nassor is pleased to announce the appointment of Sister Zahra Samir Habib as the Chairperson of the Africa Youth Network (AYN) for the term 2025 – 2028.

Following her recent appointment, Zahra bai has finalized her team for the term, and we are pleased to share their brief profiles. The Africa Youth Network brings together a dynamic group of dedicated individuals, each contributing a wealth of experience, commitment, and passion towards the growth and wellbeing of the youth in our community.

Zahra Samir Habib is currently pursuing a degree in Child Psychology, driven by her deep passion for emotional well-being and her commitment to helping children understand, process, and express their emotions in healthy and meaningful ways. In February 2025, she founded Parenting Brews, a growing community that hosts monthly workshops for parents and provides a safe, supportive space to strengthen parent–child connections.

In 2023, at the first-ever WF Youth Conference in London, Zahra was selected to represent AFED in the Youth Task Force, formed and endorsed by the ExCo, where she served as Chairperson during its inaugural term. She also previously served on the AYN Board, playing a key role in organizing the August 2023 AFED Youth Conference in Arusha, where she headed the marketing team.

Beyond youth leadership roles, Zahra has been an active member of the Development Society, serving first as Welfare Coordinator and later as Vice Chair, contributing significantly to community service and youth engagement. She is also a dedicated Qur’an teacher at Husayni Madrasah, where she continues to nurture young minds both spiritually and emotionally.

Azhar Sadiq Alishan is an active and dedicated member of the community, serving in various committees including the Shia Boys Troop Scouts Executive Team and the KSIJ Mayaat Committee in Dar es Salaam. With over a decade of experience in the media team, Azhar has successfully organized numerous events as a convener for the Scouts, demonstrating strong leadership, coordination, and a commitment to youth engagement through diverse community initiatives.

In recognition of his dedication to entrepreneurship and youth empowerment, he was featured in the Africa Federation Samachar as a Youth Trailblazer in 2023. Azhar is deeply passionate about youth upliftment and community development, frequently contributing his time to mentorship and voluntary service.

He proudly carries forward the legacy of service and humility instilled by his parents, Sadiq Alishan and Marhuma Zaheeda Alishan.

Professionally, Azhar serves as a Business Development Manager at CSS Limited, a family-run IT solutions company, where he focuses on driving business growth, problem-solving, and developing meaningful and strategic client relationships.

Fatema Jabbir Roshanali is an ACCA-qualified professional from Arusha, Tanzania, and the founder of Iqra Academy, a home-based Quran learning space built on her passion for accessible and engaging Islamic education. She previously led the Ladies Media Team for a full two-year term and is now serving her second term as Secretary of the Ladies Managing Committee, Arusha Jamaat. 

Fatema is also the founder of Banaatul Islam, a youth group established in 2019–2023 to empower and support young girls within the community. In June 2023, she was selected as part of the AFED delegation for the WF YCON, representing her community on an international platform.

Khushi Rowjani, born and raised in Nairobi, is a passionate educator who graduated with honors from Seneca Polytechnic in Toronto, Canada, earning a diploma in Early Childhood Education.

An active member of the Nairobi Jamaat, Khushi serves on both the Youth Committee and the Children’s Tabligh Committee, where she helps organize programs and volunteer initiatives that encourage community engagement and spiritual growth among the youth. She is also part of the Ladies Media Team, contributing her creativity and collaboration skills to strengthen community communication and outreach.

Guided by faith, compassion, and a commitment to service, Khushi aspires to continue supporting AFED’s mission by fostering youth development, unity, and a deeper sense of belonging across the Federation.

Mohamed Abbas Merali is an IT specialist with a degree in Computer Science.  He is passionate about ICT, youth development, and creating positive change.

He volunteered for three years with the Haideri Arbaeen Walk in South London before returning to Mombasa.

Mohamed Abbas enjoys football and contributes actively to community-focused initiatives.  As a Youth Board member, he aims to inspire and empower young people.

Zamin Raza Rowjani, born and raised in Nairobi, has grown up within the SAAJ community and remains grateful for the opportunities it has given him to serve. He is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting at Strathmore University alongside ACCA, where he has received Dean’s List recognition in both 2023 and 2024. He also serves as Treasurer and a founding member of the Pakistani Community at Strathmore.

Zamin has been part of the SAAJ Youth Union since 2023, later taking on the role of Vice Chair in 2024 and continuing in the 2025-2027 term. He has also served as the AYN Representative for Nairobi Jamaat. His community involvement includes supporting the SAAJ Security Team and contributing to the Who Is Hussain Nairobi Chapter as Head of Gents Volunteers and Interim Vice Chair. He also teaches at Haydari Madrasah Nairobi and enjoys Teaching/Mentoring younger students.

Zamin hopes to support AYN by offering a holistic perspective and contributing to efforts that strengthen unity and wellbeing among the youth.

Alijawad Esmail has been actively involved in the KSIJ Dar es Salaam community and AFED initiatives, including Solidarity Day, Khoja Heritage, and the ZNZ Sports Festival. He has volunteered with Who Is Hussain Dar and is the founder of Youth Islamic Service (YIS), a platform dedicated to organizing creative events and conferences that engage and inspire participants while sharing the message of the Ahlulbayt (‘a). Through YIS, Alijawad has developed a strategic approach to community engagement designing programs that connect meaningfully with the next generation and strengthen their grounding in faith and values.

Professionally, Alijawad serves as a Brand Engagement Manager at a multinational tech distribution company, specializing in brand experience, communication, and creative strategy.

He is also the co-founder of ARC, a trend-focused creative agency known for delivering innovative campaigns and fresh storytelling. Alijawad aims to bring this combination of strategic community building, creative leadership, and professional expertise to AYN helping shape initiatives that are relevant, impactful, and aligned with the core values of the community.

The AFED Secretariat extends its heartiest congratulations to Zahra bai Habib and her team on their appointment and wishes them every success in achieving the goals and objectives of the Board for the 2025–2028 term.

The Email contact of the Board is youth@africafederation.org

Secretariat