The death anniversary of Marhum Alhaj Ali Hussain Sheriff, fondly known as Bwana Ali, serves as a reminder of the lasting mark he left through dedicated service, guidance and institution-building within the Khoja Shia Ithna-Asheri community in East Africa. Born in Zanzibar on 12 th  January 1939, he belonged to the well-known family of Sheriff Dewji Jamal. His grandfather Haji Dewji Jamal, migrated from India to Zanzibar in 1860 and was among the pioneers involved in establis

Alhaj Hassan Ali Mohamed Jaffer was born in Zanzibar on 25 th  July 1932 and raised in Mombasa, where his lifelong engagement with community affairs steadily took shape. After completing his secondary education at Alidina Visram High School, he pursued practical agricultural studies in Morogoro, Tanzania. His early training reflected discipline and structure, qualities that later defined his approach to service and leadership. On 1 st  January 1953, he married the daughter of

19 th  February marks the death anniversary of Edalji Dhanji Kaba (1877–1925), one of the earliest Khoja historians and a prolific writer whose contributions continue to hold lasting value.  Edalji Dhanji Kaba may not be a widely spoken name today, yet he was among the quiet contributors whose work helped shape Khoja history. Through his writings, he preserved the story of the community at a time when it mattered deeply, leaving behind records that continue to guide later gen

The years 1969 - 1970 marked a historic milestone for the Dar es Salaam Jamaat as five major community projects were inaugurated almost simultaneously each reflecting foresight, collective effort and a deep commitment to serving both present and future generations.  Foremost among these initiatives was the construction of a new Imambara on the site of the former playground and gymnasium previously used by students of the Husseini Society. Built at a cost of Shs 150,000, the n

The Africa Federation Chairman Alhaj Amine bhai Nassor is pleased to announce the re appointment of Dr. Abbasaley Mazaher Abbas as the Sectional Secretary of the AFED Archives Sub Section for the term 2025 – 2028. Dr. Abbasaley has finalized his team consisting of youths and ladies with a passion in Community history and the zeal to promote and preserve the Khoja Heritage. Dr. Abbasaley Mazaher Abbas born and raised in Dar es Salaam, is a medical doctor who graduated from H

The Archives Section of the Africa Federation hosted the Khoja Heritage Program on 29th November 2025 at AFED Tower, bringing together community members for an evening of reflection and remembrance. The program opened with a recitation from the Holy Qur’an by Dr. Abbasaley Abbas followed by a warm welcome from the Master of Ceremonies Br. Miqdad Rajwani. An opening address was delivered by the Hon. Secretary, Br. Alihassan Kassam who reiterated AFED’s commitment in prioritizi

In line with the objectives of the Africa Federation Archives Section to engage the younger generation and nurture in them an appreciation for our history and heritage, the Section hosted the students of Guiding Minds Academy for a special storytelling session titled “My Khoja Story – My Roots, My Pride.” Held at the AFED Archives Gallery on 20th November 2025, the event provided the children with a meaningful introduction to the richness of Khoja heritage, highlighting the v

In every community, there are individuals whose dedication and quiet service leave a lasting impact. Their contributions may not always be carried out in the spotlight but the strength of a community often rests on the shoulders of such sincere and principled volunteers. It is important to remember and honour these individuals for the values they model and the legacy they leave behind. One such individual was Alhaj Hussein Habib Peera Khatau famously known as Kiboi, who retur

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 i

A life lived with quiet devotion, selfless service and deep humility – this is the legacy of Alhaj Ibrahim Hassanali Juma, whose journey continues to inspire our community.  Born on 31st December 1940 in Zanzibar to Hassanali Juma Mamdhani and Zainab Ali Sachoo, Ibrahimbhai was one of twelve siblings and grew up in a family that cherished unity, education and service.  From his early years, Ibrahimbhai displayed a deep love for faith and community. He pursued his primary and

The Island of Lamu holds a quiet yet profound chapter in the history of the Khoja Shia Ithna-Asheri community in East Africa. Long before Mombasa became Kenya’s main port, Lamu was a vibrant trading hub connecting the East African coast to Arabia and India. Amidst the sailboats and spice-laden dhows, a small community of believers settled here - blending commerce, culture and faith into the life of the island.  It was around 1870 that Murrabbi Dewji Jamal, a prominent merchan

"Allah will raise those who have believed among you and those who were given knowledge, by degrees." (Surah al-Mujādilah, 58:11)  On 8 th...

“And We have not sent you, [O Muhammad], except as a mercy to the worlds.”   (Surah Al-Anbiya, 21:107) Milad-un-Nabi, the blessed birth...

Chehlum of Imam Husain (A.S.) marks the culmination of the mourning period for the martyrs of Karbala who gave their lives to safeguard...

"The superiority of a scholar over a mere worshipper is like the superiority of the moon over the rest of the stars. The scholars are the...

Let me start by saying this: If you’re looking for a dusty academic tome filled with footnotes and jargon, From Dhows to Diaspora  is not...

As the crescent moon of Muharram has descended upon Africa, communities from Antananarivo to Arusha, from Dar es Salaam to Dodoma, have...

A historic moment unfolded as the Archives Section of Africa Federation officially launched its long-anticipated history book - Dhows to...

“There are books that chronicle events, and there are books that awaken collective memory. From Dhows to Diaspora belongs firmly in the...

Leadership. Legacy. Service. Tonight, Saturday, 24th May at 8:30 PM, a new episode of "Wadilo na Vishesh Vichaar"  premieres on YouTube!...