Five Projects, One Vision: Dar es Salaam Jamaat 1969 - 1970

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 new Imambara provided a spacious and dignified venue for religious programmes and community gatherings. It was designated for the menfolk who until then had shared the 1944 Imambara with the ladies separated only by a partition. The Jamaat’s Managing Committee also proposed the future addition of an upper floor to accommodate the ladies. 

Central to these developments was the construction of a new mosque to replace the original structure built in 1908. The new mosque - four times the size of its predecessor was commissioned at a contract cost of Shs 358,500. During the construction period, daily prayers were temporarily conducted in the newly built Imambara ensuring that religious services continued uninterrupted. 

Fundraising for both the mosque and the Imambara was led with dedication by Marhum Mulla Asgharali M. M. Jaffer and Marhum Mohamedali Janmohamed who visited shops and approached community members to seek donations. Among the principal donors were Mohamedali Janmohamed, Nazerali Alibhai Panju, Juma Haji, Abdulrasul Moloo Chatoo, Noormohamed Jessa, Mohamed Abdulla Khimji, Habib Nasser Rattansi, Rajabali Amarsi Alibhai, Mohamed Hussein Mohamed Walji, Abdulrasul Datoo, and Fidahussein Fazal Rawji. 

Addressing the growing need for housing, the Jamaat also launched two tenant-purchase residential schemes: Mohammedi Flats, comprising 12 units and Tauheed Flats with 21 units. The combined construction cost of these two buildings amounted to Shs 887,000. The flats were built on land originally donated by Haji Sachoo Peera for use as a Kabrastan. When a government road later cut through the donated land, the remaining portion was redesignated for residential and commercial purposes enabling the Jamaat to develop the housing schemes. To protect the cemetery, a boundary wall was constructed around the Kabrastan at a cost of Shs 23,000. 

The fifth project inaugurated during the same time was the Bilal Mission Mosque and Madressa in Temeke which provided much-needed facilities for religious worship and Islamic education for the growing community under the Bilal Mission. 

The opening ceremonies of the five projects stood as an enduring testimony to the vision, unity and determination of our community.

Article By: Mustafa Pirmohamed

Article Source: Dar Jamaat Booklet, 1969

SECRETARIAT

ARCHIVES SECTION OF THE AFRICA FEDERATION

23^rd January 2026 / 3^rd Shabaan 1447 AH

Africa Federation hosts The Shabbir Kermalli Qur’an Competition in Nairobi- Kenya - December 2025

“Recite what has been revealed to you of the Book and establish prayer. Indeed, prayer prohibits immorality and wrongdoing, and the remembrance of Allah is greater. And Allah knows what you do” (Qur’an 29:45)

The 18^th Africa Federation Qur’an Competition (QC18) was held from 19^th to 21^st December 2025 in Nairobi, Kenya. 

This year’s competition brought together participants from diverse regions including Arusha, Dar es Salaam, Dubai, Kampala, Kinshasa, Madagascar, Mombasa, Morogoro, Moshi, Mwanza, and Nairobi, reflecting the Africa Federation’s commitment to spiritual growth and community unity. A total of 277 participants competed across multiple categories, accompanied by parents, teachers, and supporters who encouraged their collective journey toward Qur’anic excellence. 

QC18 was a tribute to Marhum Alhaj Shabbir Kermalli, who left this world on 10^th December 2025 for his eternal abode at the mercy of His Lord. His dedication to the Qur’an and community was honored throughout the event. 

Opening Ceremony

The opening ceremony featured a keynote speech by the QC team Head Brother Mesam versi, and QC team Nairobi Brother Maisam Raza Somani highlighting the importance of Qur’anic knowledge and the spirit of participation.

Participating Jamaats and Participants

Judges Panel

The competition was adjudicated by a distinguished panel comprising of Sheikh Murtadha Alidina, Syed Adeel Raza, Syed Sikandar Kazmi, Maulana Ali Rizvi, Sheikh Kiberenge Issa, Sheikh Ali Akram, Sheikh Said Rashid, Mualima Siti Ally, Mualima Khadija Ally and Mualima Saada Hamad.

QC Experience Workshop

Alongside the competition, QC18 hosted a “QC Experience Workshop” for young participants, including ice-breaking activities, treasure hunts, Qur’an Bingo, Qur’an Stall, horse riding at Achis Ranch, and the Salaam Camp specially designed for children aged 3 to 7 years. Indoor and outdoor activities ensured a fun and engaging environment for spiritual and social growth.

Closing Ceremony

The closing ceremony coincided with the night of first Rajab, celebrating the Wiladat of our 5^th Holy Imam Mohammed Al Baqir (‘a). Speeches were delivered by the AFED Chairman Alhaj Amine Bhai Nassor, Vice Chairman Alhaj Murtaza Bhai Somji, and Hon. Secretary of AFED Br. Alihassan Kassam.

The Chairman of the Africa Federation, Alhaj Amine Bhai Nassor, congratulated the audience on the birth anniversary of the Fifth Holy Imam, Imam Muhammad al-Baqir (‘a), and expressed his satisfaction with the high standard and conduct of the Qur’an Competition. He reaffirmed the Federation’s commitment to hosting such events annually and praised the jamaats, parents, and participants for their dedication in elevating the competition. 

Alhaj Amine Bhai highlighted the importance of Qur’an events as these are the key tabligh initiatives and urged the Community to actively support the programs.  He also confirmed that hukuk funds have been approved to be utilized for such events and is convinced that with the support of jamaats and community members this will further strengthen such activities. 

Amine bhai paid tribute to Marhum Shabbir Bhai Kermalli for his selfless contributions.  He also remembered Marhum Syed Hassan Naqvi and Marhum Zulfikar Khimji for their contributions towards Qur’an initiatives. Concluding his address, he appreciated the host jamaat for their hospitality and generosity and emphasized that no compromise should be made in promoting Tabligh.  He prayed that the love of Ahlulbayt (‘a) and the Quran continue to inspire and fill the hearts of all. 

A posthumous award of citation and Abbasi medal was bestowed upon Marhum Alhaj Shabbir Kermalli of Dar es Salaam.  The award was presented to Syed Adeel Raza and Sheikh Murtadha Alidina on behalf of his family.

The occasion concluded with participants celebrating their achievements and the spiritual significance of the day.

Participants feedback/review:

We would like to express our sincere appreciation to you and your entire team for the excellent organization of the Qur’an Competition. The event was conducted with discipline, and care, and the hospitality extended to the participants and guests was highly commendable.

We pray that Allah (SWT) accepts your efforts as a source of continuous reward, grants barakah in your time and resources, and bestows upon you and your team success in this world and the Hereafter. May Allah strengthen your service to the Qur’an, elevate your ranks, and enable you to continue organizing such beneficial and inspiring initiatives.

Jazakum Allahu Khairan, and may Allah reward you abundantly for your dedication and hard work.

Conclusion

The Quran Competition concluded, reflecting strong participation, high standards of recitation, and effective coordination across regions. The event upheld its objectives of encouraging Quranic learning, discipline, and unity among participants. The Nairobi Jamaat was presented with a token of appreciation by the Africa Federation for hosting the AFED Qur’an Competition. Appreciation was extended by the AFTAB Chairman Mulla Sajjad Bhai Walji to the judges, organizers, volunteers, jamaats, parents, and participants for their commitment and cooperation. The outcome of this competition strengthens preparations for future programs and reinforce continued engagement with Quranic education at regional and international levels.

Secretariat

Tabligh Board Africa Federation (AFTAB)      

22^nd January 2026

Join the CHB Medical Advisory Sub Team

Over the years, the Central Health Board (CHB) has been actively supporting community members across various Jamaats in Africa by providing guidance, direction, and assistance for medical treatment both locally and internationally. This journey has not only allowed us to serve those in need, but has also given us valuable insights into the medical challenges faced by our community. 

As healthcare costs continue to rise and medical decisions become more complex, the need for structured, informed, and timely guidance has never been greater. 

Formation of a Medical Advisory Sub Team

In line with its mandate and commitment to community wellbeing, CHB now intends to establish a volunteer based sub-team of medical specialists from within the community. This initiative aims to strengthen our support framework and ensure that patients receive informed, ethical, and practical guidance. 

Objectives of the Sub Team: -

The proposed specialist sub team will focus on two key areas 

1. Case Review & Guidance

• Review medical cases referred to CHB

• Provide professional advice and guidance to patients and families

• Support informed decision-making regarding treatment options

 2. Preventive Health & Awareness

• Share preventive healthcare information

• Promote early detection, healthy practices, and risk awareness

• Help reduce avoidable medical emergencies through education

 Mode of Operation: -

• This will be a voluntary service offered to the community.

• Meetings will be conducted virtually via Zoom

• The sub team will report to and advise the Central Health Board

• All engagements will be guided by confidentiality, ethics, and compassion

Call for Volunteers

Healthcare professionals and specialists within the community who are willing to contribute their time, expertise, and experience are encouraged to come forward. This is an opportunity to give back meaningfully and play a role in strengthening community health outcomes. 

With collective effort, sincere intention, and professional guidance, we can ensure that our community members receive healthcare support that is reliable, affordable, and dignified. 

A Google Form has been created for the submission of expression of interest. Kindly complete the form using the link:  https://forms.gle/em4WDdu427SfTaEW9 

Together, We Can Make Healthcare More Informed, Accessible, and Compassionate

 CHB - YOUR HEALTH IS OUR PRIORITY

Secretariat

Central Health Board of Africa (CHB)

21^st January 2026