AFED Delegation Meets with the Minister of Home Affairs – Tanzania

Our Ref: AFED/PR/018/2026                                                Date: May 20, 2026 

AFED Delegation Meets with the Minister of Home Affairs – Tanzania

On 10^th April 2026, a delegation from the Federation of KSI Jamaats of Africa (AFED) represented by Alhaj Murtaza Kara, Hon. Assistant Secretary, and Alhaj Aunali Khalfan, the Ambassador and Nominated Councillor of Africa Federation, attended a consultative meeting convened by Hon. Patrobas Katambi, Minister of Home Affairs of the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania, together with leaders from various religious institutions across the country. Bilal Muslim Mission of Tanzania was represented by Alhaj Hafidh Mansour, COO and Mr. Mussa Chamwene, Administrative Manager. 

The meeting focused on strengthening collaboration between religious bodies and the Government in promoting peace, social harmony, national development, and responsible community engagement. 

Key areas of discussion: 

The Hon. Minister emphasized the important role religious institutions play in nation-building and requested continued cooperation with the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Registrar’s Office, and the Prime Minister’s Office in supporting national development initiatives. Emphasis was unanimous in upholding peace and inter-faith cooperation between the religious institutions in the country. The Minister stated that his Ministry was willing to assist and intends to visit the religious institutions in order to work more closely. AFED representatives extended an invitation to the Hon. Minister to visit AFED Head Office. 

A significant discussion centered around the Idara ya Uangalizi, a department that reviews cases of prisoners serving long sentences and facilitates their reintegration into society. Religious leaders were encouraged to assist in supporting rehabilitation efforts and helping former inmates reintegrate positively into their communities, recognizing that society is often reluctant to accept them back. 

Religious institutions were also urged to continue preaching peace, unity, and mutual respect while discouraging divisions based on religious beliefs or sectarian differences. 

The Minister further invited religious bodies to contribute ideas towards the formation of a new department focused on economic development within the nation. 

Concerns were also raised regarding the increasing formation of non-genuine organizations operating under religious NGOs. Religious leaders were advised to remain vigilant and discourage the establishment of entities that may engage in activities harmful to the nation. 

Guidance and Recommendations to Religious Leaders:

The Minister appreciated the contribution of religious institutions in guiding society and encouraged leaders to continue supporting national efforts while upholding moral and ethical values.

He stressed the importance of compliance with all laws and regulations, encouraging religious bodies not only to observe these rules themselves but also to guide their followers accordingly.

The meeting also highlighted the importance of unity through education, dialogue, and constructive engagement rather than blame or division. Religious leaders were encouraged to work closely with the Ministry as a bridge between communities and the Government for the betterment of society.

He further noted that religious leadership carries a broad moral responsibility in society and urged leaders to continue guiding communities in addressing the erosion of social values. Issues such as drug abuse, theft, violence, and the spread of harmful misinformation were highlighted as growing concerns requiring collective action from all stakeholders.

The responsible use of social media platforms was also emphasized, encouraging their use for education, positive engagement, and societal development rather than spreading accusations or misinformation.

The Minister encouraged religious leaders to use appropriate and respectful channels when raising concerns or drawing the Government’s attention to challenges affecting society.

The Minister concluded by reaffirming his openness to continued dialogue with religious institutions and expressed readiness to facilitate further engagement, including meetings with the President if necessary.

After the lunch, AFED and BMMT delegation had the opportunity to meet with the Hon. Minister in his office whereby pertinent matters concerning the two institutions were discussed. They explained the Hon. Minister on various social services provided by the two institutions in collaboration with the local authorities in Tanzania, for example the Free Eye Camps, Water Wells and Boreholes for fresh drinking water, Education, Health, Women Empowerment, Economic Development etc. The Hon. Minister appreciated the pledge by AFED along with BMMT to provide two Borehole Wells in Shinyanga Region where there is shortage of fresh drinking water, details will be coordinated by the COO of BMMT with the Ministry’s office.

The AFED delegation expresses its heartfelt gratitude to Hon. Patrobas Katambi and the Ministry of Home Affairs for taking this initiative to bring together the religious leaders in the country and highlight on the need to share best practices on unity, service and tolerance amongst the wider community.

SECRETARIAT