Africa Federation Hosts the Visiting Scholar, Sheikh Anwer Jaffer for a Sehri Program

Ref: PR/AF/043/2025                                                        Date: 15th March 2025

On Wednesday, 12th March 2025, the Africa Federation (AFED) hosted the renowned Sheikh Anwer Jaffer from the U.K. - the visiting scholar invited by the KSI Jamaat of Dar es Salaam to deliver lectures in Dar es Salaam Imambargha for the first 15 days of the holy month of Ramadhan 1446 A.H.

Sheikh Anwer was accompanied by the Vice Chairman of Dar Jamaat Tabligh Board Alhaj Mohammed Walji and the CEO of Dar Tabligh Board Alhaj Zishan Somji. Also present were the Chairman of Dar Jamaat, Alhaj Mohamedraza bhai Dewji, the former President of the World Federation, former Chairman of the Africa Federation, who is also the former President of Dar Jamaat and the Trustee of Africa Federation Alhaj Anwarali Dharamsi, the Vice Chairman of Africa Federation Alhaj Aunali Khalfan and the Chairman of Dar Jamaat Tabligh Board, Alhaj Dr. Kazim Dhalla.

The program was also attended by the Africa Federation office bearers including Asst. Hon. Secretary Br. Mohamedamir Hamza and Asst. Hon. Treasurer Alhaj Muntazir Walji along with Board Chairs: Alhaj Hussein Karim (Bilal Muslim Mission – Tanzania), Alhaj Shabbirhussein Khalfan (Capacity Building Board), Alhaj Akil Hirji (Housing Development Board), Alhaj Fazal Ali Kassam (Sports Council), Dr. Abbasaley Abbas (Sectional Secretary of Archives Section) and Br. Mohammed Kazim Sheriff (Chief Operating Officer of Africa Federation).

The program commenced with the recitation from the Holy Qur’an by Alhaj Hussein Karim, followed with a brief introduction by Alhaj Aunali Khalfan. Thereafter, Hussein bhai provided insights into the ongoing initiatives and impactful projects of the Bilal Muslim Mission – the external tabligh wing of the Africa Federation, particularly within Tanzania with key focus on tabligh, education and economic empowerment. Dr. Abbasaley Abbas then highlighted AFED’s dedicated efforts in reviving and preserving the rich heritage and history of the Khoja Shia Ithna-Asheri community through its Archives Section, emphasizing the importance of historical awareness and lessons from the past. Sheikh Anwer was shown around the Archives Gallery where they are a number of artifacts, photographs and books of past records and of historical importance.

Chairmen from the Capacity Building Board, Housing Development Board and Sports Council also briefed Sheikh Anwer on the scope of their work, outlining the activities, progress and aspirations of their respective sectors. Sheikh Anwer commended AFED’s extensive efforts and diverse initiatives, recognizing its role as a model for other regional institutions. He stated that AFED is highly regarded by other Regional Federations and encouraged the continuation of its valuable work. Alhaj Aunali Khalfan expressed heartfelt appreciation for Sheikh Anwer’s invaluable contributions during the Holy Month emphasizing the profound impact of his lectures which deeply resonated with community members particularly the youth. He also thanked Alhaj Mohamedraza Dewji and Alhaj Anwarali Dharamsi for their presence. Aunali Bhai also thanked the Dar Jamaat Tabligh Board for facilitating the visit to the head office of Africa Federation at AFED Tower.

In appreciation of his presence and valuable service, Sheikh Anwer Jaffer was presented with a memento by Alhaj Anwarali Dharamsi and Alhaj Mohamedraza Dewji on behalf of Africa Federation.

Sheikh Anwer was given a tour of the AFED Archives Gallery by Dr. Abbasaley Abbas, showcasing the Federation’s commitment to preserving the legacy of the Khoja community.

Large number of books of historical importance to our community going back to over eight decades have been digitalized and are preserved. These will be available for our community members to access once the exercise is completed. This includes photographs and shall be available online once the ongoing project of digitalization is completed.

The event concluded with a note of appreciation for all those involved. Alhaj Aunali Khalfan expressed his gratitude to the Dar es Salaam Tabligh Board for their continued cooperation and thanked Sheikh Anwer Jaffer for taking time from his busy schedule to grace the Sehri Program with AFED officials and invitees.

We pray to Allah (SWT) to grant Sheikh Anwer Jaffer and all esteemed leaders good health, long life, and increased knowledge to continue their service to Islam under the guidance of the Ahlulbayt (A), Ameen.

SECRETARIAT

Mulla Asgharali M.M. Jaffer: A Legacy of Faith, Leadership, and Service – Part 1

As the 25th death anniversary of Mulla Asgharali M.M. Jaffer approaches on March 21, 2025, we reflect on the life and enduring legacy of a personality whose impact continues to shape the Khoja Shia Ithna-Asheri community and beyond. A dignified figure of intellect, devotion, and leadership, Mulla Asghar’s journey was one of unwavering commitment to faith, education, and communal progress. His name remains synonymous with service, scholarship, and a vision that transformed generations.

Born on April 14, 1937, in Mombasa, Kenya, as the eldest son of Mulla M.M. Jaffer, Mulla Asghar graced the world for 63 years, living with a single clear vision that guided his every thought, action, and aspiration. His life was a beacon of purpose, steadfast in its pursuit of a higher calling. From an early age, he exhibited an exceptional thirst for knowledge, beginning his education in his hometown before traveling to India to further his studies in ophthalmology. However, his true passion lay in Islamic sciences, and under the guidance of esteemed scholars, he nurtured this passion, emerging as a distinguished Aalim with deep insights into the subjects of Fiqh, theology, philosophy and contemporary issues.

Mulla Asghar’s contributions were not confined to religious scholarship. A man of many talents, he was a prolific writer and an outstanding orator who presented the teachings of the Ahlulbayt (‘A) to the community at large. He was fluent in Arabic, Persian, English, Urdu, Kiswahili, and Gujarati, effortlessly engaging with scholars, intellectuals, poets, and learned individuals from the global Muslim world while also maintaining a strong connection with the everyday person.

Through his numerous writings, translations, and lectures, he created a lasting intellectual and spiritual legacy that continues to inspire communities worldwide.

His dedication, however, extended far beyond scholarship. He was an astute leader, deeply involved in shaping the Khoja Shia Ithna-Asheri community across the globe. His ability to connect with people from all walks of life, paired with his strategic foresight, played a pivotal role in strengthening institutions and fostering unity. He firmly believed in the transformative power of education and spearheaded initiatives that provided Islamic learning opportunities to countless individuals.

Even in his youth, Mulla Asghar demonstrated a passion for learning and leadership. He actively participated in various social and educational initiatives, excelling in public speaking and debate. As the leader of his school’s debating team, he honed his eloquence and critical thinking skills. His dedication to education was evident in his commitment to tutoring primary and secondary students, reflecting his lifelong mission to uplift the community.

Parallel to his religious and communal services, Mulla Asghar also ventured into the business world. Managing his father's optician shop in Mombasa’s old town, he soon expanded his entrepreneurial pursuits. By the late 1960s, he established a prominent optics factory in Nairobi, an endeavour that not only showcased his business acumen but also provided employment opportunities and contributed to economic development. Later, he migrated to England and settled in London, where his leadership and scholarship continued to flourish on an international scale.

Among his many intellectual contributions, Mulla Asghar authored and translated various books, including:

• Fasting

• Family Prayer

• Pearls of Wisdom

• Fiqh and Fuqaha

• Subhanallah: The Wonders of Creation in the Quran

• Islamic Laws (English Translation of Fatwas by Ayatollah Sistani)

• Nahjul Balagha Revisited: Introducing Imam ‘Ali Ibn Abu Talib

• The Collection and Preservation of The Qur’an (Translation Sayyid Al Khoei’s work)

Mulla Asghar was a man of remarkable humility and unwavering dedication. His ability to connect with people on a personal level, combined with his vast knowledge, earned him the respect and admiration of the Khoja Shia Ithnasheri community globally. His legacy is a powerful testament to the impact that one individual can have through faith, knowledge, and service.

As we commemorate this milestone anniversary, Mulla Asghar’s life continues to serve as a source of guidance and inspiration. His contributions to religious scholarship, community development, and humanitarian efforts remain etched in history, a beacon for future generations striving to follow in his footsteps.

SECRETARIAT

ARCHIVES SECTION OF THE AFRICA FEDERATION

14th March 2025 / 13th Ramadhan 1446 AH

Bilal Tanga Rajab & Shabaan 1446 (A.H.) Report

Report No. 141 – RAJAB & SHABAN, 1446 AH – FEBRUARY, 2025

FOOD DISTRIBUTION DURING THE HOLY MONTH OF RAJAB

As in previous years, Bilal Muslim Mission of Tanga carried out food distribution to all the Madrasa teachers and students during the Holy month of Rajab 1446 A.H. A total of 4,128 families benefitted with food distribution program i.e. 4004 students and 124 teachers. 

Each beneficiary received 5 kg of rice, 10 kg of maize flour, 2 kg of sugar and 1lt of cooking oil. May Allah (swt) bless all the donors who made this possible, Ameen.

 PRIZE GIVING CEREMONY DURING THE HOLY MONTH OF SHABAN 1446 AH

Bilal Muslim Mission of Tanga organized prize giving ceremony for Madrasa students and Mo’omineens during the Holy month of Shaban 1446 AH.  Madrasa students who excelled in the Annual exam held towards the end of 2024 and who had good attendance were awarded during Prize giving ceremony. Awards were also given to winners of Qur’an competition. 

Mo’omineen who attended the exam and reached the pass mark were also rewarded during the ceremony. 

Simultaneously, all the Madrasa students with good attendance were given kanzu (for boys), scarf/abaya (for girls).

PRIZE GIVING IN TANGA CENTRE:- In Tanga centre the Prize giving ceremony was held on Sunday, 23rd February 2025 i.e. 24 Shaban, 1446 AH.  Moomineen and students attended to receive their rewards as well as evaluate Madrasa progress throughout the year. 

Prepared by: Secretariat

BMMT Tanga Branch