Africa Federation Archives - Honoring the Life and Legacy of Allamah Seyed Saeed Akhtar Rizvi

"Allah will raise those who have believed among you and those who were given knowledge, by degrees."

(Surah al-Mujādilah, 58:11) 

On 8^th Rabi-ul-Aakhar 1423 (20^th June 2002), the Muslim world bid farewell to a distinguished scholar, missionary and prolific writer - Allamah Seyed Saeed Akhtar Rizvi. Two decades later, his vision and contributions continue to illuminate hearts across continents. 

Born in 1927 in Ushri, Saran district, Bihar, India, Seyed Saeed Akhtar Rizvi grew up in a household enriched with faith and knowledge. His father, Sayyid Abul Hassan Rizvi was a respected scholar and Hakim (doctor of Yunani medicine). From this nurturing environment, Allamah developed a love for learning, a spirit of service and a deep commitment to Islam which shaped his lifelong journey.

In 1959, at the age of 32, Allamah Rizvi came to East Africa as a Resident Aalim under the Africa Federation. He was first posted in Dar es Salaam and shortly thereafter transferred to Lindi, Tanzania. Dedicated to serving effectively, he invested effort in learning Kiswahili - a decision that would make his missionary work deeply impactful in East Africa. 

In 1962, Allamah Seyed Saeed Akhtar Rizvi proposed a comprehensive plan to the Africa Federation for propagating Islam among indigenous Africans. This vision took shape in 1963 and by 1968 the Bilal Muslim Mission of Tanzania was established, followed by Kenya in 1971. As Chief Missionary and advisor on tabligh matters, he worked alongside dedicated leaders such as Marhum Mohamedali Meghjee, Marhum Mulla Asghar M. M. Jaffer, Marhum Abdulrasul Lakha, Alhaj Mohamed Dhirani and Marhum Habib Mulji. Through their collective efforts, the Mission became a beacon of guidance.

Allamah Rizvi was not only a preacher but also a prolific writer. He authored over 140 books with translations into more than 22 languages spreading Islamic knowledge across Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Americas. His command over languages including Urdu, English, Arabic, Persian, and Swahili along with familiarity in Hindi and Gujarati allowed him to reach diverse audiences and convey Islam’s timeless message in words that touched hearts. His lectures and correspondence courses extended his influence to students in Africa, Europe, Canada and the United States.

Marhum Allamah Seyed Saeed Akhtar Rizvi had also vast knowledge on matters of fiqh. The past Marja-e-Taqleed from Ayatullah al-Uzma Seyyid Muhsin al-Hakim, Ayatullah al-Uzmah Sayyid Abul Qassim al-Khoui, Ayatullah al-Uzmah Sayyid Muhammad Reza Golpaygani and the present Marja-e-Taqleed Ayatullah al-Uzmah Sayyid Ali Hussaini al-Sistani (May Allah (swt) grant him long and healthy life) entrusted Allamah Seyed Saeed Akhtar Rizvi as being capable of answering questions on fiqh. This recognition testified to the depth of his scholarship and the respect he commanded across the Islamic world.  

On 20^th June 2002 (8th Rabi-ul-Aakhar 1423), Allamah Seyed Saeed Akhtar Rizvi passed away in Dar es Salaam. His funeral drew dignitaries, scholars and members from around the world. The Salat al-Mayyit was led by his son, Hujjatul Islam wal Muslimeen Seyed Muhammad Rizvi, who is currently the Resident Aalim of the Jaffari Islamic Centre in Toronto. Two scouts carrying black flags accompanied the cortege to the burial site symbolizing the community’s grief and respect.  

Allamah Seyed Saeed Akhtar Rizvi leaves behind a legacy of faith, knowledge and service. His vision for tabligh transformed East Africa and reached far beyond touching lives to different parts of the world. His life’s work remains a source of inspiration reminding us that true service to Islam lies in dedication, humility and perseverance.  

As we mark 24 years since his passing, let us honor his memory with reflection, gratitude and renewed commitment to the values he lived by. His funeral can be watched on this link: Funeral of Allamah Rizvi and a documentary on his life can be watched here: Documentary on Allamah Rizvi.

May Allah (SWT) elevate his status and grant him a place among His chosen ones. Ameen. Let us remember him and all Marhumeen with Surah al-Fatiha.

SECRETARIAT

ARCHIVES SECTION OF THE AFRICA FEDERATION

 2^nd October 2025 / 9^th  Rabi-ul-Aakhar 1447 A.H