Africa Federation hosts The Shabbir Kermalli Qur’an Competition in Nairobi- Kenya - December 2025

“Recite what has been revealed to you of the Book and establish prayer. Indeed, prayer prohibits immorality and wrongdoing, and the remembrance of Allah is greater. And Allah knows what you do” (Qur’an 29:45)

The 18^th Africa Federation Qur’an Competition (QC18) was held from 19^th to 21^st December 2025 in Nairobi, Kenya. 

This year’s competition brought together participants from diverse regions including Arusha, Dar es Salaam, Dubai, Kampala, Kinshasa, Madagascar, Mombasa, Morogoro, Moshi, Mwanza, and Nairobi, reflecting the Africa Federation’s commitment to spiritual growth and community unity. A total of 277 participants competed across multiple categories, accompanied by parents, teachers, and supporters who encouraged their collective journey toward Qur’anic excellence. 

QC18 was a tribute to Marhum Alhaj Shabbir Kermalli, who left this world on 10^th December 2025 for his eternal abode at the mercy of His Lord. His dedication to the Qur’an and community was honored throughout the event. 

Opening Ceremony

The opening ceremony featured a keynote speech by the QC team Head Brother Mesam versi, and QC team Nairobi Brother Maisam Raza Somani highlighting the importance of Qur’anic knowledge and the spirit of participation.

Participating Jamaats and Participants

Judges Panel

The competition was adjudicated by a distinguished panel comprising of Sheikh Murtadha Alidina, Syed Adeel Raza, Syed Sikandar Kazmi, Maulana Ali Rizvi, Sheikh Kiberenge Issa, Sheikh Ali Akram, Sheikh Said Rashid, Mualima Siti Ally, Mualima Khadija Ally and Mualima Saada Hamad.

QC Experience Workshop

Alongside the competition, QC18 hosted a “QC Experience Workshop” for young participants, including ice-breaking activities, treasure hunts, Qur’an Bingo, Qur’an Stall, horse riding at Achis Ranch, and the Salaam Camp specially designed for children aged 3 to 7 years. Indoor and outdoor activities ensured a fun and engaging environment for spiritual and social growth.

Closing Ceremony

The closing ceremony coincided with the night of first Rajab, celebrating the Wiladat of our 5^th Holy Imam Mohammed Al Baqir (‘a). Speeches were delivered by the AFED Chairman Alhaj Amine Bhai Nassor, Vice Chairman Alhaj Murtaza Bhai Somji, and Hon. Secretary of AFED Br. Alihassan Kassam.

The Chairman of the Africa Federation, Alhaj Amine Bhai Nassor, congratulated the audience on the birth anniversary of the Fifth Holy Imam, Imam Muhammad al-Baqir (‘a), and expressed his satisfaction with the high standard and conduct of the Qur’an Competition. He reaffirmed the Federation’s commitment to hosting such events annually and praised the jamaats, parents, and participants for their dedication in elevating the competition. 

Alhaj Amine Bhai highlighted the importance of Qur’an events as these are the key tabligh initiatives and urged the Community to actively support the programs.  He also confirmed that hukuk funds have been approved to be utilized for such events and is convinced that with the support of jamaats and community members this will further strengthen such activities. 

Amine bhai paid tribute to Marhum Shabbir Bhai Kermalli for his selfless contributions.  He also remembered Marhum Syed Hassan Naqvi and Marhum Zulfikar Khimji for their contributions towards Qur’an initiatives. Concluding his address, he appreciated the host jamaat for their hospitality and generosity and emphasized that no compromise should be made in promoting Tabligh.  He prayed that the love of Ahlulbayt (‘a) and the Quran continue to inspire and fill the hearts of all. 

A posthumous award of citation and Abbasi medal was bestowed upon Marhum Alhaj Shabbir Kermalli of Dar es Salaam.  The award was presented to Syed Adeel Raza and Sheikh Murtadha Alidina on behalf of his family.

The occasion concluded with participants celebrating their achievements and the spiritual significance of the day.

Participants feedback/review:

We would like to express our sincere appreciation to you and your entire team for the excellent organization of the Qur’an Competition. The event was conducted with discipline, and care, and the hospitality extended to the participants and guests was highly commendable.

We pray that Allah (SWT) accepts your efforts as a source of continuous reward, grants barakah in your time and resources, and bestows upon you and your team success in this world and the Hereafter. May Allah strengthen your service to the Qur’an, elevate your ranks, and enable you to continue organizing such beneficial and inspiring initiatives.

Jazakum Allahu Khairan, and may Allah reward you abundantly for your dedication and hard work.

Conclusion

The Quran Competition concluded, reflecting strong participation, high standards of recitation, and effective coordination across regions. The event upheld its objectives of encouraging Quranic learning, discipline, and unity among participants. The Nairobi Jamaat was presented with a token of appreciation by the Africa Federation for hosting the AFED Qur’an Competition. Appreciation was extended by the AFTAB Chairman Mulla Sajjad Bhai Walji to the judges, organizers, volunteers, jamaats, parents, and participants for their commitment and cooperation. The outcome of this competition strengthens preparations for future programs and reinforce continued engagement with Quranic education at regional and international levels.

Secretariat

Tabligh Board Africa Federation (AFTAB)      

22^nd January 2026