AFED Housing Development Board Chairman Visits Lilongwe, Malawi

The Africa Federation Housing Development Board Chairman, Alhaj Akil Hirji, accompanied by AFED Projects Coordinator Mohamed Moledina visited Lilongwe, Malawi on 15^th and 16^th January 2026. 

This visit was a follow-up to discussions held at the 29^th Ordinary AFED Conference held in June 2025, where the urgent need for improved facilities for the Jamaat was highlighted. This is in line with the vision of AFED Chairman Amine bhai Nassor that all AFED centres and Madressa facilities are to be well maintained, adequately equipped, and fit for its purpose. 

Background and Purpose of Visit

The purpose of the visit was to meet and interview contractors who had submitted bids for the construction of a new building comprising Madressa classrooms, a staff room, and a multipurpose hall. 

It may be recalled that in 2022, AFED and the Lilongwe Jamaat had planned to construct a new centre; however, due to unavoidable circumstances, the project could not materialise at that time. 

The Jafri Muslim Association of Lilongwe (JMA), a registered institution in Malawi since May 2011, currently comprises approximately 40 families (around 150 heads). The community in Lilongwe is steadily growing, and the existing facilities particularly the Madressa are no longer sufficient to meet the Jamaat’s present and future needs. 

Contractor Interviews and Site Visit

The Lilongwe Jamaat arranged meetings and interviews with the shortlisted contractors. The sessions were attended by:

• Akil Hirji                  - AFED Housing Board Chairman

• Habib Ali                - Chairman - Lilongwe Jamaat Chairman Habib Ali

• Mohammed Taha   - Managing Committee Member

• Rashid                    - Architect

• Andrew                   - Quantity Surveyor

• Mohamed Moledina - AFED Projects Coordinator

All three contractors were interviewed in detail. The assessment focused on their working methodology, technical capacity, available equipment, team structure, and overall experience.

Following the interviews, the delegation conducted a comprehensive site visit of the existing centre and the proposed construction area to assess the current infrastructure and layout. During this visit, Akil bhai toured the existing Madressa classrooms and library, where he met with the Ladies Committee Chairlady and Madressa Principal, Mrs. Kauser Salim, to gain deeper insight into the operational challenges and future requirements.

Project Reassessment and Revised Proposal

Based on the site assessment and discussions, Akil bhai observed that the centre requires significant upliftment. To ensure maximum utilisation of the available plot and long-term sustainability, he recommended revisiting the project design to better serve the Jamaat’s needs over the next 20 years. 

Later that evening, Akil bhai held a dinner meeting with the Lilongwe Jamaat Managing Committee and Trustees. He explained that whilst constructing only a Madressa building would address an immediate need, it would soon lead to additional challenges particularly with regards to the ageing Imambargha and overall infrastructure, which requires comprehensive redevelopment.

Drawing on his experience, Akil bhai proposed a revised project concept:the construction of a three-storey integrated building housing all essential facilities under one roof, including:

• Prayer Hall / Imambargha (for gents and ladies)

• Wudhoo and washroom facilities

• Jamaat office

• Madressa classrooms

• Library and staff room

• Medium-sized multipurpose hall

• Open floor space for future expansion

This integrated approach would also allow for greater open compound space, improved outdoor sports activities, and adequate parking facilities. 

Next Steps and Timeline

Alhamdulillah, the Managing Committee and Trustee Salimbhai welcomed and appreciated the proposal. Akil bhai confirmed that draft drawings would be shared within seven (7) days for Jamaat review and final approval. 

This will be followed by fundraising and construction planning, with the aim of commencing works in April 2026. Jamaat members expressed their appreciation and offered valuable suggestions for the new centre.

On 16 January 2026, Akil bhai met with Architect Rashid to formally brief him on the discussions and decisions regarding the proposed integrated centre. Following this meeting, Akil bhai also visited several completed projects undertaken by one of the contractors to assess workmanship quality, capacity, and construction standards. 

Project Status

The new Jamaat Centre is currently in the design and development stage, with the AFED Housing Development Board and the Lilongwe Jamaat Committee working closely together to ensure timely progress. 

The proposed building will include:

Ground Floor

• Prayer Hall/Imambargha for gents and ladies

• Wudhoo area and washrooms

First Floor

• Six (6) Madressa classrooms

• Library and staff room

• Jamaat office

• Washrooms

• Medium-sized multipurpose hall

Second Floor

• Enclosed terrace floor reserved for future use

The Housing Development Board is also evaluating structural options, including reinforced concrete versus steel structure. A final decision will be made based on cost estimates and overall feasibility, taking into account pricing received from earlier Madressa-only tenders. 

Visuals

The Housing Board records its appreciation to the Lilongwe Jamaat for their hospitality and all the arrangements done during their visit.

Secretariat

AFED Housing Development Board 

5^th February 2026.