CIRCULAR NO: JMT/208/25 DATE: June 12, 2025/Zilhajj 15, 1446
The forecast for the Crescent of 1st Muharram 1447 A.H. is as follows:-
The birth of the Astronomical New Moon is at 1.33 p.m. on Wednesday 25th June 2025 i.e. 28th Zilhajj 1446 A.H.
On Thursday 26th June 2025, the age of the New Moon after the Sun has set is:
SIGHTING IS POSSIBLE
EXPECT 1ST DAY OF MUHARRAM 1447 AH ON FRIDAY 27TH JUNE 2025 FOR THE WHOLE REGION.
Secretariat
“There are books that chronicle events, and there are books that awaken collective memory. From Dhows to Diaspora belongs firmly in the latter category… This is not merely a history of a community. It is a book of belonging — written not just for Khojas, but for anyone who has ever searched for home in distant lands or carried heritage in a suitcase of memory.”
With great pride and anticipation, the Africa Federation announces the official launch of From Dhows to Diaspora: The Khoja Journey and the Legacy of the Africa Federation at the upcoming AFED Conference in Mombasa on Friday, June 13, 2025.
Commissioned by the Archives Section of the Africa Federation, From Dhows to Diaspora is the most comprehensive work to date on the development of the Federation and the community it serves. But this is no dry institutional record — It is a living, breathing narrative that brings history to life through story, language, and emotion.
A Legacy Told Through StoryThis landmark publication, authored by Dr. Hasnain Walji, captures the spiritual, historical, and institutional journey of the Khoja Shia Ithna-Asheri community across East and Central Africa — a community that has navigated migration, faith, and modernity without ever losing its anchor in collective identity and service.
Opening with a fictional yet historically grounded dialogue between a young man and an elder—Pirbhai Kaka—the book takes readers on a journey from the dhow ports of Gujarat to the bustling towns of East Africa. It charts the birth of Jamaats, the community’s theological transformation from Satpanth to Twelver Shiism, the challenges of colonialism and exile, and the rise of institutions such as the Bilal Muslim Mission and the Africa Federation itself.
Chairman Amine Nassor on the Importance of This Work
“This book is not just a record—it is a legacy,” - AFED Chairman Alhaj Amine Nassor.“
For generations, we have navigated faith, migration, adversity, and opportunity. From Dhows to Diaspora captures that journey with honesty and reverence.”
As the Africa Federation approaches eight decades of service, this publication stands as a tribute to the quiet builders of our community—those who established masjids in remote areas, taught Qur’an under mango trees, led with integrity, and served selflessly without seeking recognition.
A Call to the Next Generation
In his own words, Dr. Hasnain Walji reminds us:“This story doesn’t end with the last chapter. It begins with YOUR next step.”
This is not only a book of remembrance—it is a call to action. It invites the younger generation to reconnect with their roots, not merely to admire the past, but to carry forward its mission with renewed passion and purpose.
Join Us for the Official Launch
We warmly invite all conference delegates, Jamaat representatives, scholars, youth leaders, and community members to attend the official launch of From Dhows to Diaspora on Friday, June 13, 2025, during the Africa Federation Conference in Mombasa.
The launch program will feature remarks from the author, reflections from the Archives Section, and acknowledgments of key contributors who made this publication possible.
Availability
Following the launch, From Dhows to Diaspora will be available in print through the AFED Secretariat.
Contact for Inquiries and Media
📞 +255 699 476 010 | +255 652 552 447
SECRETARIAT
ARCHIVES SECTION OF THE AFRICA FEDERATION
12th June 2025 / 15th Dhul Hijjah 1446 AH
In a heartfelt initiative to enhance access to home based medical care, the Central Health Board (CHB) of the Africa Federation has partnered with Shia-Ithna-Asheri Jamaat (SAAJ) Nairobi to provide oxygen concentrators for community use.
During a recent visit to Arusha, CHB Chairman Aliraza Bandali and his team met with Dr. Mazaher Jaffer, Chairman of SAAJ, who highlighted the need for oxygen support among patients recovering at home.Recognizing the urgency and impact of such support, CHB promptly responded by allocating two oxygen concentrators units to be stationed in Nairobi under the care of SAAJ’s medical team.
These units will be available free of charge to community members requiring short term oxygen therapy; typically, during recovery or post hospital discharge. Once the equipment is no longer needed, it will be returned and prepared for the next patient.
This partnership is part of CHB’s broader vision to strengthen home based healthcare, reduce avoidable hospital admissions, and promote compassionate, community driven health support.
“We are proud to support this noble cause,” said the CHB Chairman. “This is not just about equipment; it is about compassion, accessibility, and responding to real needs on the ground. We thank SAAJ Nairobi for their proactive approach and for being a model of community centered care.”
The CHB remains committed to working hand in hand with Jamaats across Africa to support health and wellbeing through timely, impactful interventions.
For any queries or to request the oxygen concentrator in Nairobi, community members are encouraged to contact SAAJ’s Medical Team directly.
CHB - YOUR HEALTH IS OUR PRIORITY
Secretariat
Central Health Board of Africa (CHB)
10th June 2025