The Africa Federation Tabligh Board (AFTAB) is a Board under the Federation of KSI Jamaats of Africa (AFED) whose main responsibility is for “Internal Tabligh” to work within the Khoja Shia Ithna-Asheri community; for monitoring and encouraging the promotion of the doctrines of the Shia Ithna Asheri faith tending to the improvement and spiritual upliftment of its members, providing guidance on matters concerning religion, promoting awareness in all the constituent Jamaats under AFED in a conducive environment. To facilitate this process, AFTAB has appointed an esteemed “Guidance Council”.
The Panel is made up of scholars who are based in East Africa and Abroad, and have the following responsibilities:
To prepare guidance papers on relevant issues and programs, which will guide protocol and systems.
To provide guidance on certain matters raised by AFTAB for consultation.
To manage certain projects under the auspices of AFTAB, such as the As-Siraat Scheme (Higher Religious Education) and the Pre-University Course.
To supervise certain projects that fall under AFTAB, as and when required.
The panel has six esteemed scholars, namely:
Sheikh Muhammad Khalfan
Sheikh Safdar Razi
Sheikh Muhammad Kamran
Sheikh Mustafa Mukhtar
Sheikh Ali Rajani
Sheikh Yassir Rajabali
Sheikh Muhammad Khalfan
Sheikh Muhammad Khalfan, born in Mombasa, Kenya, has dedicated his life to the study, teaching, and dissemination of Islamic knowledge. His academic journey began after completing his secondary education, when he moved to Qum to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Islamic Studies. This foundational education set the stage for a distinguished career in both academic and community service.
Following his undergraduate studies, Sheikh Khalfan engaged in extensive tabligh activities for over a decade, contributing to various Islamic outreach and educational efforts. His commitment to furthering his knowledge led him back to Qum, where he pursued a Master’s degree and is currently working towards a Ph.D. in Islamic Mysticism at the University of Religions and Denominations.
Sheikh Khalfan’s professional career spans a range of significant roles in Islamic education and community service. He has served as a tutor at Al-Muntazir Islamic Seminary in Dar-es-Salam, Tanzania, and as the Director of Hawzat al-Muntazar (aj) in Antananarivo, Madagascar. In Mombasa, he was the Head of Islamic Religious Education at Jaffery Academy and later led the Middle Eastern Section at the Islamic Institute for Post Graduate Studies in Damascus. Presently, he manages the al-Imam al-Sajjad (a) Foundation in Qum, continuing his commitment to Islamic scholarship and community engagement.
His scholarly contributions are notable, with several published works that reflect his deep engagement with Islamic thought. These include: Soaring to the Only Beloved (2001), Manifestations of the All-Merciful (vol. 1: 2002; vol. 2: 2004), The Divine Invitation (2004), The Sacred Effusion (vol. 1: 2009; vol. 2: 2013), Seeking Light (2014), Seeking Elevation (2015), Prescriptions for Physicians (2017), and The Tablet of Fatima (‘a) (2018).
Sheikh Muhammad Khalfan’s extensive experience in Islamic scholarship and his dedication to serving the community highlight his significant contributions to the field of Islamic studies and education.
Sheikh Safdar Razi
Sheikh Safdar Razi, born on November 14, 1964, in Karachi, Pakistan, is a distinguished scholar in advanced Islamic studies with a comprehensive background in both religious and secular education.
His academic journey began with a B.Sc. in Zoology and Chemistry from the University of Qatar in 1988, followed by various certifications in respiratory therapy. His diverse educational path reflects a commitment to both scientific and religious disciplines.
In 2005, Sheikh Safdar completed his B.A. in Islamic Law from the International College for Islamic Studies (ICIS) in London, UK. He furthered his studies with a Post Graduate Diploma in Advanced Islamic Studies from the Islamic College for Advanced Studies (ICAS) in London in 2006. Currently, he is pursuing a Ph.D. in Advanced Islamic Studies at Al Qaeem Institute.
Sheikh Safdar has held numerous significant roles in Islamic education and community service. Since 2003, he has been the Founder, Director, Instructor, and Academic Advisor at Al Qaeem Institute, where he leads advanced Islamic education both online and on-campus. His extensive experience includes serving as an Imam and religious guide in various international communities, including the Tabligh Committee of Khoja Shia Ithna-Asheri Jamaat in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania; the IILM Center in Dallas, Texas; and the Imam Mahdi Association of Marjaeya (IMAM) in Dearborn, Michigan.
His previous roles also include being a resident scholar and religious guide in Doha, Qatar, where he served multiple mosques and educational centers, and a lecturer at The Awaited One Foundation in Dearborn, MI, USA. In his current role at the al-Imam al-Sajjad (a) Foundation in Qum, he continues to engage in Islamic scholarship and community activities.
His linguistic skills are exceptional, with fluency in Arabic, English, Urdu, and Gujarati. He has taught advanced Islamic and Arabic studies in multiple languages, including English and Arabic, and has developed extensive curricula for Al Qaeem Institute.
Sheikh Safdar Razi’s distinguished career is marked by his dedication to advancing Islamic education, his impactful community service, and his contributions to interfaith understanding. His work continues to shape and enrich the Islamic scholarly community globally.
Sheikh Muhammad Kamran
Sheikh Muhammad Kamran is the esteemed principal of Husayni Madrasah in Dar es Salaam, where he leads with a vision to promote both academic excellence and spiritual growth. His leadership extends beyond the educational and administrative aspects of the institution, as he actively engages with students, parents, and the wider community to nurture well-rounded individuals grounded in Islamic values.
In addition to his administrative duties, Sheikh Kamran serves as a lecturer at Madrasatuz Zahra (MAZ), a ladies' Hawza in Dar es Salaam. He teaches advanced Islamic studies, including Islamic Family Laws, Mafahim al-Quran, Life After Death, and Arabic Morphology, providing his students with a deep understanding of Islamic jurisprudence, theology, and the practical application of Islamic teachings in daily life.
A dedicated scholar since 2012, Sheikh Kamran pursued his studies at the prestigious Islamic Seminary in Qum, Iran, earning both his Bachelor's and Master's degrees with a specialization in Fiqh (Jurisprudence) and Usool (Principles of Jurisprudence).
Complementing his religious scholarship is his professional experience as a Chief Accountant in the corporate sector. This unique combination enables Sheikh Kamran to approach modern-day issues with a balanced and practical perspective. He has also completed a professional course in Marital and Family Mediation, using his expertise to help families navigate and resolve conflicts with empathy and insight, guided by Islamic principles.
As an active Muballigh, Sheikh Kamran is a compelling voice from the Mimbar, delivering impactful lectures. He is also a respected member of the Question and Answer Panel of Ulama, providing clear and succinct responses to inquiries on Fiqh and Aqaid.
Beyond his formal roles, Sheikh Kamran is deeply committed to community service. He mentors students in the Hifdh Quran Program at ASK and regularly delivers lectures at the Al-Itrah Foundation, engaging with the youth and the broader African Muslim community on a wide range of relevant topics. Through his contributions to the Friday Community Forum, he writes articles on Islamic issues, enriching the spiritual and intellectual life of the community.
In his personal time, Sheikh Kamran enjoys playing cricket—a sport that keeps him active and connected with others. He also has a unique hobby of reading books while walking, blending his love for knowledge with a reflective and dynamic practice.
Sheikh Mustafa Mukhtar
Sheikh Mustafa Mukhtar is a distinguished PhD candidate specializing in Quranic Studies, Tafseer, and Ma'arif. Currently advancing his research and scholarship, Sheikh Mustafa's academic journey is built upon a solid foundation in Islamic education, beginning with his primary and secondary education at Jaffery Academy in Arusha and extending through his advanced studies at Al Muntazir Islamic Seminary in Dar es Salaam.
With extensive professional experience, Sheikh Mustafa has served as a resident scholar for both Arusha and Dar es Salaam Jamaats. In Dar es Salaam, he has made significant contributions as a teacher at Madrasah Al Zahra, where he has been instrumental in reviewing the Madrasah syllabus, training teachers, and developing various educational courses. His expertise extends beyond the classroom, having been a prominent presenter on IRIB English Radio for over a decade.
In addition to his teaching and media roles, Sheikh Mustafa is actively involved in research and publications with the Bab-al-Ridha Institute. He also plays a key role in the Khatamul Anbiyaa Institute’s management committee, where he focuses on Tabligh activities aimed at enhancing Islamic outreach among indigenous communities in Tanzania.
Driven by a commitment to propagate authentic Islamic teachings, Sheikh Mustafa Mukhtar seeks to blend academic scholarship, community engagement, and media influence to further the understanding and practice of Islam.
Sheikh Ali Rajani
Sheikh Ali Rajani, born and raised in Dubai, has dedicated his life to the study and dissemination of Islamic theology and Shiatology. His educational journey began at Jumeirah College, where he completed his GCSEs in 2011. Driven by a passion for deeper religious understanding, Sheikh Ali moved to Qom in 2012 to immerse himself in Islamic studies.
In Qom, he initially focused on learning Farsi and foundational Islamic studies. He then enrolled at Imam Khomeini Specialized University, where he engaged in a rigorous curriculum covering Arabic syntax, logic, theology, and more. His academic path took a decisive turn in 2017 when he completed his bachelor’s degree in Shiatology.
Following his undergraduate studies, Sheikh Ali pursued a course in Arabic speaking to enhance his linguistic proficiency. His quest for knowledge continued with a Master’s degree in 'Understanding the Ahlul Bayt,' which he completed in 2023. His thesis, 'Ahlul Bayt in the Qur'an,' reflects his deep engagement with the subject matter and his commitment to scholarly excellence.
Currently, Sheikh Ali is working towards his Ph.D. in Islamic theology, with a focus on advanced topics in the field. His academic pursuits are complemented by his studies in the traditional Hawza system, where he has completed major studies up to the Dars Kharij level. Since early 2020, he has been studying Dars Kharij, delving into advanced discussions in fiqh, usul, theology, philosophy, and new theology.
Beyond his academic achievements, Sheikh Ali is deeply committed to spreading the teachings of Islam. He has actively engaged with various community groups to share and promote Islamic knowledge, fulfilling what he sees as a crucial responsibility in his life.
Sheikh Ali Rajani’s blend of rigorous academic training, traditional studies, and community engagement highlights his dedication to both scholarly and practical aspects of Islamic theology.
Sheikh Yassir Rajabali
Sheikh Yassir Rajabali Alidina, is a multifaceted scholar and educator with a diverse background and a rich blend of academic and practical experiences. Originally from Burundi, he completed his schooling in the UK before pursuing higher education in neuroscience at King's College. After completing his Bachelor's degree, he moved to the Hawzah of Qum, where he has been studying Islamic sciences for the last 11 years, focusing on a broad range of disciplines including Aqaid, Akhlaq and spirituality, logic and philosophy, Fiqh and Usul, Tafsir, family life, and life skills. His time at the Hawzah also includes teaching practical logic and training Hawzah students in various tabligh skills.
Sheikh Yassir has a robust record of teaching and community engagement. He conducts seminars and workshops on various topics in both English and French-speaking communities, as well as online. His project management skills and leadership experience are evident through his involvement in various projects, including his role in organizing and mentoring in educational courses such as Bab al-Ridha (BRisc) and QSC, as well as short courses and camps in various jamaats. Sheikh also gives time for one-on-one counseling to youths as well as married couples. Sheikh Yassir has a notable commitment to youth engagement, involving discussion circles, counseling, and recreational activities like sports and games.
His media presence includes hosting and participating in radio shows and podcasts, where he often discusses various subjects related to Islamic thought and community issues. Sheikh Yassir has gained experience in building and managing a studio, video editing, website management, photography, and videography. His creative pursuits include writing blogs, articles, and scripts, as well as designing games and stories.
Outside his professional and academic endeavours, Sheikh Yassir enjoys a range of hobbies including football, badminton, paddle, swimming, and FIFA. He has a passion for camping, hiking, nature walks, and comedy, which reflect his diverse interests and commitment to a well-rounded lifestyle.
Sheikh Yassir Rajabali Alidina's unique blend of a scientific background, Islamic scholarship, and creative talents positions him as a dynamic and influential figure in both educational and community spheres. If you wish to access his online content, you may follow him on instagram @yassiralidina
Message from the Chairman of Africa Federation, Alhaj Amine Nassor
“It is my pleasure to extend warm welcome the Guidance Council made up of respected learned scholars from our community to assist AFTAB in some Tabligh activities and programs; likewise, in sharing of best practices to ensure the smooth functioning, and delivery of these activities and programs. It is a strong belief of the AFED office bearers and myself that the Guidance Council will Insha’allah provide valuable insight to the AFTAB in various sectors for developments including the As-Siraat Scheme for higher religious studies which Africa Federation launched few years ago, this Scheme needs renewed impetus to attract the Khoja Shia Ithna-Asheri students from our member Jamaats in Africa to register and pursue higher religious education.
Considering the changing phenomenon in ethical practices, beliefs etc. the role of the Guidance Council becomes even more critical in the light of these challenges. My colleagues and I, are very grateful to the dedicated learned scholars who have kindly agreed to assist AFTAB, indeed this is a great service not only to the AFTAB but also to Islam and the Madh’ab of Ahlulbayt (‘a). The rewards of good doers are with Allah (SWT) and we pray to Him to grant the esteemed scholars more Tawfeeqat, success and long healthy life to enable them to carry out the noble services effectively, Aameen”.
Thanking you,
With Salaams and Duas,
Amine Goulamaly Nassor
On behalf of the Chairman of AFTAB, Mulla Sajjad Walji and members of AFTAB, we wish to convey our heartiest greetings and a warm welcome to the esteemed scholars of the AFTAB Guidance Council, we wish them every success in their endeavours in noble service to the religion of Islam and the Madh’ab of Ahlulbayt (‘a).
SECRETARIAT
TABLIGH BOARD OF AFRICA FEDERATION (AFTAB)
27th September 2024
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