Visit of Sheikh Dr Murtadha Alidina to Bilal Centers in Mwanza

We were honored to accompany Sheikh Dr Murtadha Alidina, Head of the Islamic Department at the World Federation, during a series of visits to remote Bilal centers in the Mwanza region.

These visits formed part of Bilal Muslim Mission of Tanzania’s annual oversight program, aimed at assessing the progress of each center, reviewing available facilities, evaluating the delivery of the Islamic syllabus, and engaging directly with the local mu’minīn.

On August 27, 2025, Sheikh Dr Alidina joined the delegation in Mwanza and journeyed to several remote centers - Kissesa, Mantare, and Badugu reaching them via challenging, rugged roads. The tour continued on August 28, with visits to Nyamhogoro and Nyasa centers, where he held multiple meetings with local Shuyūkh and engaged in fruitful discussions with Bilal Mwanza Chairman, Alhaj Dr Sibtain Meghjee.

Message from Dr Murtadha Alidina

Alhamdulillah, I was blessed with the opportunity to visit several Bilal Centers in the interior districts of Mwanza. These centers comprising a mosque, nursery school, and the residence of the local Ustadh are quietly and courageously spreading the message of the Ahlul Bayt (AS) in remote regions.

“And who speaks better than one who calls to Allah, does righteous deeds, and says: ‘Indeed, I am of those who submit.’” (Qur’an 41:33)

While the services remain basic and in need of further development, the dedication of the Bilal staff under the capable leadership of Alhaj Husain Bhai Karim is truly commendable. His efforts to promote economic empowerment and facilitate loans for higher education are vital steps toward uplifting new converts and enabling long-term progress.

“Give them some of the wealth of Allah which He has given you.” (Qur’an 24:33)

We pray that the seeds being planted in these challenging terrains through sincere effort and nurturing support will grow into fruitful trees of righteous followers of the Ahlul Bayt (ʿalayhim as-salām).

“Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah, and those with him are firm against disbelievers, yet compassionate among themselves… Their likeness is as a seed that sprouts, strengthens, and rises upon its stalk…” (Qur’an 48:29)

The Mission is grateful to Sheikh Alidina for making time to join the BMM Tanzania delegation during their visit to Mwanza.

Issued by:

Media Department

The Bilal Muslim Mission of Tanzania.

December 2025

Inspiring Young Hearts Through Khoja History and Heritage

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 values, traditions and lived experiences that continue to shape and guide the community across generations.

The session was led by Sr. Riffat Zahra Jabir, guiding the young learners to explore their roots from the early beginnings of our community in India and continuing through the many challenges that shaped our community. The children also learned about the determination with which our elders later migrated to East Africa and how they went on to build mosques, madrasahs and jamaats with unity, devotion and hard work.

The stories of community figures such as Dewji Jamaal, Haji Naji and Haji Ali Nathoo were shared to highlight qualities of service, wisdom and sincerity that have shaped generations. The children were reminded that they are the next chapter of this beautiful journey and the inheritors of qualities such as kindness, bravery, generosity and a deep love for the Ahlulbayt (a).

Guiding Minds Academy expressed their appreciation to the AFED Archives Section for hosting the visit and for creating an engaging, meaningful experience for the students. They noted that the display at the Archives Gallery helped the children better understand their roots, feel proud of their identity and recognise the sacrifices that built the community they belong to.

The Africa Federation Archives Section extends its gratitude to Sister Safiya Jusab and the Guiding Minds team for their visit and looks forward to welcoming more students in the future, Insha’Allah.

SECRETARIAT

ARCHIVES SECTION OF THE AFRICA FEDERATION

20^th December 2025

Visit by Dr Murtadha Alidina and Sheikh Mujahidali Sheriff to Bilal Hawza, Dar es Salaam

In September 2025, Sheikh Murtadha Alidina Head of the Islamic Department of the World Federation and Sheikh Mujahidali Sheriff, Trustee of the Orison Charitable Trust and Executive Councillor of CoEJ had the opportunity to visit the Hawzatul Sayyida Maasuma (as) in Mabibo and later the Boys Hawza, the oldest in Hawza in Tanzania, Hawzatul Ahlul Bayt (AS) in Temeke.

They visited various facilities and spoke to teachers as well as to the students.  Hawzatul Maasuma (as) is a three years training followed by nursing, teachers training and other courses. Those who wish to pursue further Islamic studies opt for further two years course here or may be selected to join hawza in Iraq. Similarly, for boys it’s a four years course followed by special Mubaligh course.

Message from Sheikh Mujahidali Sheriff:

We wish to sincerely thank you, Hussein Bhai, for inviting us and personally taking us to visit the Bilal Muslim Mission office as well as the two Hawzas of boys and girls. It was truly an amazing experience, and the most impressive part was witnessing the students’ fluency in Arabic and their enthusiasm to learn - a wonderful achievement indeed.

We pray that Allah (SWT) grants abundant success to all your efforts and rewards you and the entire team immensely in this world and in the Hereafter for your dedication and service.

Once again Shukran Jazeelan and Jazaakallah.           

The Mission records its appreciation to Sheikh Alidina and Sheikh Sheriff for visiting the Hawza and sharing their inputs and suggestions. 

Issued by:

Media Department

The Bilal Muslim Mission of Tanzania.

December 2025