Africa Federation Archives - Marhum Mohamed Gulamhussein Walji (Biremi)
- Secretariat
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
A life spent in service, devotion and quiet dedication to the community - this is the legacy remembered of Marhum Mohamed Gulamhussein Walji, fondly known to many as Mohamed Biremi, whose contribution to community life spanned generations across Zanzibar, Dar es Salaam and later the United States.
Born on 23rd December 1938 in Zanzibar to Marhum Gulamhussein Walji and Marhuma Laila Muscat, Mohamedbhai grew up among ten siblings: Khadija, Mehrun, Khairoon, Ali, Rubab, Shireen, Hassan, Ahmed, Abdul Aziz and Fatma. From an early age, he became deeply connected to religious gatherings and azadari activities within the community.
He married Zainab bai Walji in Pangani, Tanga and together they were blessed with three children: Sadiq Gulamhussein Walji, Jabir Gulamhussein Walji and Laila Walji-Mirza.
Mohamedbhai possessed remarkable practical skills, discipline and a deep sense of responsibility that shaped much of his life’s journey. He became widely known within Zanzibar for his heartfelt recitation of nauhas, marsiyas, munajaats and ziyarats. His powerful and emotive voice during majlises, mehfils and juloos left a lasting impact on many, with several younger reciters seeking guidance from him and drawing inspiration from his style of recitation.
Alongside his role in azadari, Mohamedbhai became equally well known for his longstanding contribution to community kitchens. What began as a passion gradually evolved into decades of dedicated khidmat for the Jamaat across Zanzibar, Dar es Salaam, New York and Orlando. Renowned for his exceptional culinary skills, he played a central role in preparing meals for numerous religious gatherings, jamaat functions and community events over the years. His traditional dishes particularly biryani, pilau, khichro and kalio became fondly remembered by many within the community. Many still affectionately recall the distinctive taste and quality associated with his cooking, particularly during major religious gatherings and jamaat functions. Mohamedbhai approached community cooking with immense dedication and pride, often spending countless hours ensuring meals were prepared with care and to the highest standard. For many, his presence in the kitchen became closely associated with warmth, hospitality and sincere service while those who worked alongside him remember the commitment, discipline and tireless effort he brought to every gathering.
His service extended far beyond kitchens and gatherings. Mohamedbhai was also among the early and dedicated volunteers of the Kafan Dafan committees in Zanzibar, Dar es Salaam and New York. For many years, he remained actively involved in assisting families during bereavements, carrying out mayyit, ghusl and kafan responsibilities with humility and commitment. Community members remember his readiness to serve quietly, often undertaking difficult responsibilities without hesitation or recognition.
Professionally, Mohamedbhai was engaged in business while continuing to dedicate much of his personal time towards community and charitable causes. He also supported the Imaame Zamaana Mission in Hyderabad, India where he served as a representative by assisting in fundraising efforts, personally meeting donors and following up on welfare support being provided to beneficiaries.
Throughout his life, Mohamedbhai remained closely attached to the remembrance of the Ahlulbayt (AS), performing ziarat on multiple occasions and continuing his involvement in religious and communal service wherever he lived.
Marhum Mohamed Biremi will be remembered for his sincerity, his devotion to azadari, his readiness to serve the community in all circumstances and the warmth with which he carried out every responsibility entrusted to him. His life stands as a reminder that some of the most lasting contributions are made not through titles or recognition, but through years of consistent and selfless service.
Marhum Mohamed Gulamhussein Walji passed away on 13th January 2026 at the age of 92, leaving behind a legacy of service and devotion that continues to inspire all who knew him.
May Allah (SWT) reward Marhum Mohamedbhai abundantly for his lifelong devotion and sincere services to the community, and grant him an elevated station in the proximity of the Ahlulbayt (AS), enveloped in His infinite mercy and grace, Ameen.
We request all mu'minin to remember Marhum Mohamed Gulamhussein Walji and all Marhumeen with Sura-e-Fateha.
Click the link below to listen to Marhum Mohamed Gulamhussein Walji (Biremi)’s recitation:
Article Source: Family of Marhum Mohamed Gulamhussein Walji.
SECRETARIAT
ARCHIVES SECTION OF THE AFRICA FEDERATION
17th July 2026 / 2nd Safar 1448
Comments