EDB China Exposure Tour 2025

EDB China Exposure Tour 2025: Bridging Markets, Empowering Entrepreneurs, and Creating History

16th – 29th October 2025 | Guangzhou • Foshan • Yiwu • Shenzhen

The Economic Development Board (EDB), in collaboration with NBC Bank, successfully led a groundbreaking China Exposition familiarity tour from 16th to 29th October 2025, a journey that brought together 45 participants, including 15 brothers and 2 sisters from our community, who also took part in the tour for an immersive experience into the heart of China’s industrial and technological excellence.

The Vice Chairman of EDB Br. Mazahir Dewji guided the delegation through China’s key business hubs namely Guangzhou, Foshan, Yiwu, and Shenzhen offering participants not only an educational journey, but a lifechanging introduction to international trade, networking, innovation, and cross-cultural business engagement.

Purpose and Vision: Building Bridges Beyond Borders

The central goal of the China excursion was simple yet impactful: to expose our community members to China’s vast industrial and technological advancements, while offering tailored guidance to those traveling to China for the first time. Although many participants are seasoned travelers, this experience was designed to help newcomers navigate the unique landscapes of Chinese trade, manufacturing, and market opportunities.

By visiting factories, suppliers, markets, and business offices, participants were able to see how ideas become innovation, and how efficiency, precision, and scale can reshape the way we think about enterprise.

With NBC Bank’s partnership, the tour offered seamless logistics, visa facilitation, and on-ground support, making it possible for members to focus on learning, networking, and building valuable trade connections.

Exploring China’s Leading Business Hubs

Each city offered its own unique lesson — together forming a comprehensive business education that no classroom could replicate:

• Guangzhou- The bustling trade capital and base city for the delegation. Participants attended two phases of the Canton Fair, one of the world’s largest trade exhibitions, where they connected directly with global manufacturers and suppliers.

• Foshan- Known for its world-class furniture and interior manufacturing, Foshan showcased how China’s industries maintain high quality at unmatched production scales.

• Shenzhen – The technological powerhouse of China, where participants explored electronics markets and innovation hubs, witnessing firsthand how rapid creativity and adaptability drive success in a competitive global economy.

• Yiwu – Home to one of the largest wholesale markets in the world, Yiwu offered participants an incredible look into how international sourcing, product diversification, and logistics come together to power global trade.

Participants also visited the Silent Ocean Office, where they gained practical insights into import-export facilitation, supplier reliability, and trade partnerships.

Hands on Learning and Real-World Exposure

Throughout the tour, participants weren’t just observers; they were learners, negotiators, and explorers. They walked through factories, met suppliers face-to-face, and interacted with trading agents who shared practical guidance on everything from quality control to pricing strategies.

The team learned how to source products efficiently, navigate cultural nuances in negotiation, and manage international trade relationships with confidence and professionalism.

The trip also emphasized holistic support with halal food arrangements, visa assistance, and on ground coordination ensuring participants could focus fully on learning and exploration.

A Transformative Experience and Measurable Impact

The impact of the China Tour has been both immediate and inspiring. Participants returned home with:

• Confidence to independently travel to and trade with China.

• Established direct supplier and agent connections for future sourcing.

• A broader understanding of how to bring Chinese efficiency, design, and innovation to local markets.

More importantly, many described the experience as “eye-opening and empowering” a chance to see first-hand what is possible when ambition meets opportunity.

A Historic Milestone for the Community

This tour was more than a business trip, it was a historic milestone. For the first time, EDB successfully united community members from Tanzania, Kenya, and Malawi on a single platform of shared learning and collaboration.

Participants from Mombasa, Arusha, Dar es Salaam, and Lilongwe came together with one goal: to learn, grow, and elevate their business potential. What began as a journey to explore markets turned into a profound experience of unity, teamwork, and cross-border bonding.

As Br. Mazahir Dewji, who led the AFED-EDB delegation, reflected:

“This trip was about more than trade, it was about building confidence, connecting people, and opening doors to global possibilities. The energy, curiosity, and engagement from every participant was remarkable. This is just the beginning, Insha’Allah.”

Looking Ahead

The overwhelming response and success of the China tour has set a new benchmark for what community driven initiatives can achieve. The trip’s success has inspired EDB to continue building opportunities that strengthen our community’s global economic footprint.

With plans already underway for future enlightening and instructive visits and trade programs, EDB remains committed to empowering entrepreneurs, promoting collaboration, thus nurturing a spirit of growth that reaches beyond borders.

“We have created history together,” said Br. Mazahir. “This trip united us in purpose and vision, and from here, we move forward, stronger, wiser, and ready to make our mark in the global marketplace.”

Gratitude and Acknowledgment

EDB extends heartfelt appreciation to the Chairman and the Office Bearers of the Africa Federation and the National Bank of Commerce for their partnership, efficiency, and dedication in making this journey a success. Special thanks go to all the participants who joined with enthusiasm and trust, turning this trip into not just an exposure tour, but a shared story of progress and pride.

The China exposition 2025 was a journey of discovery, a reminder that when we come together to learn and explore, we build synergies and shape business acumen for generations to come.

You may view the participants’ testimonials below.

https://youtu.be/WMl_yB_V3Og

SECRETARIAT

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT BOARD

19^TH NOVEMBER 2025

AFED Regional Education Forum 2025

Regional Education Forum 2025 –

A Transformative Platform for Educational Collaboration within our Community Schools

The Africa Federation Education Board successfully organized the Regional Education Forum (REF) 2025 on 8^th and 9^th November 2025 in Nairobi, hosted by the Nairobi Jaffery Education Board. The event brought together over 40 Educators, School Leaders, and Representatives from Education Boards and Community Schools across Nairobi, Mombasa, Arusha, Dar es Salaam, Kampala, and Antananarivo (Madagascar).

The two-day forum served as a vibrant platform for sharing best practices, strengthening inter-school collaboration, and promoting holistic education aligned with Islamic values and 21^st century learning goals, and focus on improving mental wellbeing within a school setting.

Mental Wellbeing in a School Setting

Dr. Imran Versi led a session on mental health and well-being, beginning with a short quiz to emphasise its importance. He explained how mental health impacts students’ emotional and social well-being and highlighted the crucial role of teachers in recognizing signs of stress and anxiety. He outlined common stressors, including academic pressure, social issues, family expectations, and biological changes, and underscored the value of school counselling. Dr. Versi also shared practical strategies for teachers to support students with empathy, respect for confidentiality, and respond to noticeable changes in mood, behaviour, or performance. 

The forum continued with schools sharing best practices across key areas, including teacher development, technology in learning, educational policies, student development, Islamic values, and extracurricular enrichment.

Teachers’ Development and Collaboration

The School Leadership Teams from Al Muntazir Islamic International School (ALMIIS), Jaffery Academy - Nairobi, Jaffery Academy - Mombasa, and Jaffery Academy - Arusha outlined their approaches to professional growth and collaboration. They highlighted programmes such as mentoring, classroom management and lesson planning training, supervision and appraisal systems, peer observation, and workshops aimed at enhancing teachers’ skills, character, and teamwork across schools.

Technology in Learning

Jaffery Academy - Mombasa showcased how technology supports learning from nursery to secondary levels through the use of tablets, coding classes, and digital literacy programmes. The school emphasised safe internet practices and the importance of balancing digital learning with interpersonal skills.

Policies in Education

Madagascar shared how its board collaborates with all 13 Jamaats nationwide, offering scholarships in fields such as medicine, information technology (IT), engineering, and artificial intelligence (AI). They also guide students in exploring study opportunities beyond France and provide ongoing spiritual and academic support.

Students’ Development

Bilal School - Kampala, Jaffery Academy - Nairobi, and ALMIIS shared initiatives promoting holistic development. These included reflective learning, positive behaviour monitoring, inquiry-based learning, early intervention for special needs, and vocational life skills. They also emphasised cultural awareness through events like Diversity Day and strong parent partnerships.

Islamic Values in Education

ALMIIS and Jaffery Academy - Mombasa described their efforts to embed Islamic values throughout the curriculum. ALMIIS demonstrated how it bases its programme on the Qur’an and Ahlulbayt teachings, covering spiritual, emotional, intellectual, and moral development. Jaffery Academy - Mombasa promotes faith-based learning through Qur’an challenges, family activities, essay competitions, and events such as the Arbaeen Walk.

Extracurricular and Enrichment Activities

Jaffery Academy - Arusha, Jaffery Academy - Nairobi, and ALMIIS highlighted wide-ranging enrichment opportunities including sports, arts, STEM, leadership, and community service. These activities aim to nurture students’ values, confidence, and life skills through interschool competitions, mentoring, counselling awareness, and local and international participation.

After the inspiring presentations on best practices, Murtaza bhai Somji, AFED Vice Chairman, addressed the forum. He thanked all participants, the host school, and the AFED Education Board, emphasizing the vital role of education in imparting knowledge and skills while nurturing holistic development in students. He highlighted the responsibility of teachers in shaping well-rounded individuals and encouraged schools to involve parents and grandparents in educational activities. Murtaza bhai also shared a message from AFED Chairman Amine bhai Nassor, urging all schools to harmonize the Islamic Religious Education curriculum across the network.

Career Counselling and Student Guidance

The second day began with an engaging icebreaker, followed by an interactive session led by Sajida bai Master on building an outstanding careers programme in schools. She emphasised the need for a structured approach from nursery to secondary, focusing on early exposure, exploration, and preparation for transition. Sajida highlighted the importance of a dedicated careers leader to plan and evaluate activities, encourage curiosity, build soft skills, involve teachers and parents, provide industry exposure, and offer individual guidance and university preparation while tracking students’ progress.

Outcome and Way Forward

REF 2025 concluded with renewed commitments toward:

• Strengthening inter-school collaboration and exchange programs.

• Integrating mental health and emotional intelligence into education.

• Improvising professional training and development.

• Standardizing IRE curricula across schools.

• Building structured, lifelong career guidance programs.

Groups were formed for each area, with representation from every school, to discuss challenges and develop practical next steps, coordinate actions and ensure progress and accountability.

The 2025 AFED Education Forum brought educators together to share ideas, strengthen teamwork, and gain practical strategies to help students grow in skills, values, and confidence. The forum highlighted how collaboration can make a real difference to students and their communities.

The Education Board extends sincere thanks to the Nairobi Jaffery Education Board for their warm hospitality and excellent organization, to the Office Bearers of AFED for their guidance and support, and to all participants for their active contribution, which made the REF 2025 an inspiring success. The Board also wishes to recognize the presence of Abbas bhai Peera, Head of Education at the World Federation, and expresses its appreciation for his valuable insights shared during the forum.

SECRETARIAT

AFRICA FEDERATION EDUCATION BOARD

18^th November 2025

Appointment of the Africa Federation Education Board 2025 - 2028

CIRCULAR NO:  AFED/023/25                                    Date: November 17, 2025 

The Africa Federation Chairman, Alhaj Amine bhai Nassor, is pleased to announce the appointment of Alhaj Arif Dhirani of Dar es Salaam as the Chairman of the Africa Federation Education Board for the term 2025–2028.

Arif bhai has constituted his team comprising experienced educationists and dynamic youth leaders, who together are committed to enhancing and expanding opportunities for all students to access and pursue high-quality education.

Arif Dhirani – Chairman, Dar es Salaam

Born in Tanga in June 1969 into a family of five, Arif Dhirani completed his high school education at Popatlal Secondary School in 1986 and further pursued basic accounting studies at St. Joseph’s Commercial School in 1987. He is also a graduate of the renowned Mohammedi Cultural Group (MCG) Madrassa in Tanga, completing his studies there in 1984.

Arif bhai migrated to Dar es Salaam in early 1988, where he began his career working with an auditing firm. Shortly thereafter, he ventured into entrepreneurship and established his own business, which he has successfully managed for over 20 years. He is married and blessed with two sons and a daughter-in-law.

A passionate sportsman, Arif bhai represented Union Sports Club (USC) in various local and international volleyball tournaments. He has been an active volunteer of the Jamaat, serving in multiple capacities over the years. He served as Chairman of Union Sports Club from 2013 to 2017, during which he also joined the Social Services Committee (SSC) of KSIJ Dar es Salaam. He continued to serve in different roles before being elected as a Managing Committee Member for the 2020–2022 term, during which he was appointed Co-Chairman of the Social Services Committee. He was re-elected in 2022 and appointed Chairman of the Social Services Committee of KSIJ Dar es Salaam for the 2022–2024 term.

During his tenure as Chairman of USC, he notably led the organizing committee for the Solidarity Day celebrations under both the Africa Federation and KSIJ Dar es Salaam for two consecutive years.

Dr. Zohraida Karim – Vice Chairperson – Dar-es-Salaam

Dr. Zohraida carries a rich experience of 26 years in the field of education and attained a PhD in Early Childhood Education with majors in Child Psychology & Brain Development, from USA. She is an accomplished and passionate educationalist with a proven track record of driving transformative change within educational institutions.

With a blend of experience, ambition, and dedication, her focus spans from leadership and organizational management to curriculum design, teacher training, and student facilitation. She is committed to fostering effective learning environments that cater to individual needs, while promoting innovative teaching methods and encouraging the exploration of new ideas. As a dynamic leader, her vision is to elevate the education into a beacon of excellence, where students thrive as active participants in their education, equipped with the skills and mindset to excel in our rapidly changing world.

Mrs. Farhana Jaffer – Hon Secretary – Nairobi

Farhana has over 20 years of experience in education, she has dedicated her career to inspiring excellence, nurturing curiosity, and helping students reach their fullest potential. She currently serves as the Operations Manager at MLC Schools, where she oversees the day-to-day running of the school and ensures that academic and co-curricular programmes are delivered smoothly and effectively.

Over the years, Farhana has had the privilege of serving as Head of Curriculum, a role that allowed her to shape teaching and learning practices, mentor teachers, and enhance the overall quality of education at MLC Schools.

Alongside her work at MLC Schools, Farhana also teaches at Haydari Madrasah and is part of the Nairobi Teacher Training Programme, where she supports the professional development of fellow educators and contributes to the advancement of Islamic education within the community.

Education is Farhana’s lifelong passion. She is deeply committed to raising academic standards within the community and encouraging students to pursue higher education and continuous learning. She believes that empowering young people with knowledge, values, and opportunity is key to building a stronger, more vibrant, and forward-looking community.

Sameerally Dhalla – Hon. Assistant Secretary – Dar es Salaam

Born in 1995 in Dar es Salaam, Sameerally holds a Diploma in Health Science and a Bachelor of Biomedical Science from LaTrobe College and Deakin University in Australia. He later worked in Sydney as a lab and research assistant before returning to Tanzania, where he now manages marketing and operations in his family’s business in Dar es Salaam.

Sameerally has been an active community volunteer from a young age. At 13, he was recognised as the youngest member of the Nyaz Committee under the leadership of Mohamedhussein bhai Kermalli (Babu Lelo). Over the years, he has served across multiple Jamaat and youth organisations, including the Development Society (DS), Ithnasheri Union (IU), Shia Scouts, and numerous Ad-hoc committees such as AFED Solidarity Day, Muharram Juloos, WF & AFED conferences, MCE trainings, and sports and census initiatives. He has also contributed to the Imam Hassan Centre in Sydney and supported youth capacity-building programmes including the AYN Moshi Youth Camp.

Maitham Rajwani – Hon Treasurer – Dar-es-Salaam

Maitham is passionate and takes pride in carrying out volunteering work through which he is able to give back to his community. When he moved to Dar Es Salaam in 2013 from Morogoro, he first served as an IUVC volunteer for one year, before taking up the post of Secretary for IUVC from 2014 - 2016.  He served as an active IUVC volunteer until 2019 where he had the opportunity to be part of numerous events such as the Muharram Juloos, Africa Federation Supreme Council Meeting, AFED Solidarity Day Ad-Hoc Team and World Federation Conferences.

Maitham pursued his higher education in Birmingham and obtained his Bachelors in Business Management (Hons.) and graduated with a Distinction in Masters of International Business (MBA). After moving back to Dar-es-Salaam in 2023, he actively followed the affairs of KSIJ Dar es Salaam and the Africa Federation in pursuit of looking for a potential volunteering opportunity to add value and continue giving back to the community which he considers to be a moral and ethical duty for what he has received from all the involved organisations over the years.

Samir Muslim Habib – Member – Dar-es-Salaam

Samir is a seasoned professional with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management Information Systems and brings over 33 years of experience across the technology and manufacturing sectors.

Inspired by his late father’s lifelong commitment to community service, he has actively contributed to a range of educational and youth development initiatives. Since January 2021, he is serving as the Vice Chairman of the Central Board of Education for Almuntazir Islamic International School, having previously held multiple roles within the Board from 1996 to 2004.

He also served as Chairman of the Africa Federation Education Board (2010 – 2016), later continuing as a board member until 2021 and as Secretary of the Youth Wing of the Ithna-Asheri Union in Dar es Salaam (2002–2004). His ongoing community involvement reflects a deep passion for service, education, and collective progress.

Mirjean Ackbaraly Pirbhai – Member – Arusha

With more than 35 years of entrepreneurial experience, Mirjean has established and managed ventures in real estate, various companies, and educational institutions. His professional journey is further strengthened by extensive consultancy work in the education sector. Mirjean has played an active role in community economic development under the Afed Economic Development Board, with a particular focus on promoting financial independence.

Presently, he remains engaged in real estate and provides, oversees the management of educational centers. He is also responsible for administering private education grants and supporting the establishment of new educational setups.

Mirjean Ackbaraly Pirbhai is committed to driving business growth while actively supporting social enterprises that advance education and healthcare rights considered universal to all. His approach centers on merging human and financial resources, leveraging shared experience and robust networking to foster unity. By encouraging collaboration, he aims to generate collective growth that benefits not only businesses but also the wider community.

Farhan Yusuf – Member – Dar-es-Salaam

Farhan is a pharmacist with fourteen years of experience in Tanzania spanning across the public, private and non-profit sectors. His experience includes carrying out roles with projects/programs funded by various development entities and implemented by international organizations. These roles have included leadership & governance, program management, monitoring & evaluation, communications, and knowledge management.

Farhan has also been a part of different community sections having been the Chairman of Central Health Board and Hon. Secretary of Education board in the past and has supported Africa Federation initiatives including Solidarity Day, YouthCan etc. Farhan currently has an ongoing podcast with the Careers Hub of KSI Jamaat Dar es Salaam where he hosts conversations with community professionals about their career journeys.

Alongside his career in the health sector Farhan is very passionate about education, career guidance, emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence and youth empowerment.

Mrs. Anaar Karim – Member – Mombasa

Anaar has over ten years of experience in school and madrasah settings, dedicated to nurturing the academic, spiritual, and personal growth of young learners. She served as the former Dean of Students for Girls and Head of IRE at the Senior School in Jaffery Academy Mombasa, where she worked closely with teenagers, mentoring and guiding them through their formative years.

A graduate of Montessori Centre International, Shanzu Teachers College, and Memon College, she specialises in Early Childhood Development and Education and is a graduate of the Leadership Development Program and Mentorship Development Program of the Africa Federation. She firmly believes that teenagers are amazing beings full of potential, and that every child deserves the opportunity to learn and thrive.

She played a crucial role in organising various school events, one of which was the first-ever school car treasure hunt around Mombasa town.

Anaar also served as a patron and mentor, accompanying a team of senior school students to the World Scholars Cup Global Round in Dubai, where they attained a grand total of 23 medals and qualified for the Tournament of Champions at Yale. She serves as an MCE Tarbiyah Curriculum Facilitator, a Husayni Madrasah teacher, and Community Fit Champion, and is currently working as an Optical Assistant at Oh My Glasses Opticians.

Mohammed Mussa- Member – Dar-es-Salaam

Mohammed brings over five years of experience in the insurance sector, with strong skills in planning, coordination and communication. He holds an ABE Diploma and a Certificate from the Chartered Insurance Institute (CII) UK, and upholds the values of integrity, teamwork and consistency.

He has served as an assistant teacher at Madressa and developed a passion for education, mentorship and youth empowerment. Mohammed has also served as President and now Patron of the Development Society (DS) Boys for over five years, guiding youth through educational and personal development programs.

He also represented Dar es Salaam Jamaat as the AYN Youth Representative under AFED for three years, contributing to impactful initiatives and regional youth collaboration.

Energetic and team-oriented, Mohammed aims to use his experience and enthusiasm on the Education Board to strengthen learning opportunities and support an empowered youth community.

Following his appointment, Arif bhai Dhirani stated that he is extremely privileged to be appointed as the Chairman of the AFED Education Board, and expressed gratitude to the Chairman of Africa Federation, Alhaj Amine Bhai Nassor, and his office bearers for the trust rendered to him and his team. He further assured that the responsibilities entrusted will be delivered to the best of their abilities.

The AFED Secretariat extends its heartiest congratulations to Arif bhai 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 education@africafederation.org

Secretariat