Housing Board Bulletin - Landmark Commercial Project by Songea Jamaat

The Songea Jamaat has embarked on a landmark commercial cum residential development project aimed at strengthening the economic and social infrastructure wellbeing of the community.

In 2024, following extensive discussions with the Jamaat members and having an overwhelming approval at the AGM, the Jamaat made a thoughtful decision to develop its strategically located plot near the mosque. The Jamaat President was in regular consultation with the Africa Federation Office Bearers and the Chairman of the Housing Development Board for guidance on the project as well as financial management, and monitoring.

Recognizing the town’s growing economy and emerging business opportunities, the project was structured to be financed through 30% contribution from Songea Jamaat’s funds, support from donors, and a soft loan by Africa Federation.

A major boost came when the Dinani family of New Jersey, USA, generously donated, while AFED pledged to provide a soft loan. These contributions, coupled with the dedicated leadership of Alhaj Hussein bhai Dhalla (Chairman, Songea Jamaat), the Hon. Secretary, Alhaj Abbas Hemani and Mohammed bhai Jaffer (Project Coordinator), have been instrumental in driving the construction forward.

Project Overview

The multi-purpose complex consists of a ground plus four-storey building designed to host commercial, office, warehouse, and residential facilities:

• Ground Floor: 31 commercial outlets.

• First Floor: 20 office and warehouse units

• Second to Fourth Floors: 9 residential apartments per floor (1x four-bedroom and 2x three-bedroom units, with flexible layouts based on demand)

In August 2024, AFED Chairman Alhaj Amine bhai Nassor together with then Vice Chairman Alhaj Aunali bhai Khalfan visited the Jamaat and had the opportunity to visit the site of the project. Amine Bhai in his address to the Jamaat commended the Jamaat’s timely initiative in embarking on a project of this scale for the long-term benefit of the community. He further appealed to the community members to consider seriously to invest in Songea where business is thriving, other communities including the indigenous community are prospering in businesses, transport and storage.

Progress Update

The construction work is progressing steadily. The ground floor shops are in the final finishing stages and are expected to be completed by September 2025. Already, 80% of the shops are booked for renting, with an anticipated monthly rental income of Tshs. 500,000 per unit. This income will play pivotal role in funding subsequent phases of the project, i.e. residential.

Project Progress Visuals

Message of Commendation

On behalf of the Housing Board, Chairman Alhaj Akil Hirji extends heartfelt congratulations to Songea Jamaat for initiating such an ideal project that will bring both; economic and developmental benefits to the community. Beyond income generation, this development is poised to become a central hub fostering unity, attraction, and a greater sense of belonging. The project is an example for other upcountry Jamaats to replicate this kind of project for the growth opportunities that exists.

Community Participation

Members are encouraged to consider settling in Songea, a town experiencing rapid economic growth, and to take advantage of being in a priority list for shop rentals. This offers a unique opportunity to invest community-based environment.

This project marks a milestone in building a stronger, self-sufficient Songea community. The Songea Jamaat have been very generous to present two commercial outlets within the complex to the Africa Federation to encourage migration of community members and their families to Songea.

We appeal to our community members to support this project and send contributions through the Africa Federation Secretariat Office, AFED Tower in Dar es Salaam. Donations will Insha’allah aid in the successful and sustainable completion of the Jamaat’s efforts and initiatives.

For further information please contact Hussein bhai Dhalla, cell phone number: +255 784 786 225.

With the blessings of Allah (SWT), we pray for its timely and successful completion.

SECRETARIAT

AFED Housing Development Board