Milad-un-Nabi Through the Years

“And We have not sent you, [O Muhammad], except as a mercy to the worlds.” (Surah Al-Anbiya, 21:107)

Milad-un-Nabi, the blessed birth anniversary of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAWW) holds a special place in the hearts of Muslims worldwide. For our Jamaats, it has been more than a celebration – it has been a platform for unity, tabligh and reaffirming the timeless teachings of the Prophet (SAWW). Often, these celebrations are coupled with the Birth Anniversary of our 6th Imam, Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq (AS) linking the mercy of the Prophet (SAWW) with the enduring guidance of the Ahlulbayt (AS). 

Looking back through the years, these events have left behind a rich legacy of gatherings, processions and dialogues. They reflect how communities have come together – young and old, leaders and scholars, Muslims of different schools of thought and even friends from other faiths – all uniting in joy at the remembrance of the Prophet (SAWW) and his noble family. 

In October 1991, the Milad-un-Nabi program organized by the Ithna Asheri Union Volunteer Corps (IUVC) in collaboration with the Khoja Shia Ithna Asheri Jamaat of Dar es Salaam was graced by the President of the United Republic of Tanzania, H.E. Alhaj Ali Hassan Mwinyi. The event brought together Muslims from the mainland and Zanzibar. The then Chairman of Dar es Salaam Jamaat, Alhaj Aliraza Kassamali Rajani warmly welcomed the President highlighting the Jamaat’s efforts in education and healthcare. Quranic recitations, qasidas by the students of Husseini Madrassah as well as Bilal Muslim Mission of Tanzania and lectures in Swahili by Alhaj Maalim Muhsin Alidina from the University of Dar es Salaam and Sheikh Omar Mayunga of Bilal Muslim Mission of Tanzania enriched the program. In his address, The President H.E. Alhaj Ali Hassan Mwinyi expressed his appreciation and emphasized prayer, service and knowledge as pillars of national and spiritual progress.

The following year, in 1992, the second grand Milad was organized by IUVC with the President of Zanzibar H.E. Alhaj Salmin Amour as the Chief Guest. In his remarks, he praised the community for its long-standing presence in Tanzania and its valuable contributions in various fields of service, both in Mainland and Zanzibar.

In February 2013, the Milad-un-Nabi program was held at Diamond Jubilee Hall hosted by the Dar es Salaam Jamaat. The Guest of Honour was the former President H.E. Alhaj Ali Hassan Mwinyi, who in his address emphasized the importance of such celebrations in honoring the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAWW), the great personality who established and made great efforts in the spread of Islam. 

Among the dignitaries present were the then Chairman of the Africa Federation Alhaj Anwarali Dharamsi, the President of Dar es Salaam Jamaat Alhaj Shiraz Walji along with leaders from several communities, Imams of mosques, scholars from local institutions and Madaris, students of the Hawza and members of the public. 

The program featured lectures by the Resident Alim of KSIJ Dar es Salaam Jamaat Sheikh Murtaza Alidina, Sheikh Musa Hadi (BAKWATA) and Sheikh BaSaleh (Sunni Masjid) each highlighting the Holy Prophet’s message of compassion, unity and knowledge. Qasidas were jointly recited by Shia and Sunni brothers reflecting the spirit of brotherhood and harmony.

In Mombasa, the annual Milad-un-Nabi procession of January 2014 brought together large numbers from various communities, making it a strong display of unity and mutual respect. Beginning at Sakina Mosque and concluding at Makadara Grounds, the event featured youth carrying flags, banners and placards displaying various ahadith of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAWW) serving both as a form of tabligh for participants and as an educational display for the onlooking public.

Booklets titled “Maulid – Si Bida’a, Si Haraam” by Sheikh Abdullahi Nassir were also distributed to further enlighten attendees. Scholars, community leaders and members walked side by side reflecting the teachings of the Prophet (SAWW) as well as the guidance of the Imams (a) emphasizing unity, harmony and mutual respect. Nasheeds and qasidas filled the streets and the procession stood as a living tabligh effort and a testimony to the Holy Prophet’s message of brotherhood. 

On December 28, 2015, during the Wiladat ceremony of 17th Rabiul Awwal, UAKSIR Reunion during the tenure of Alhaj Amine Nassor as Chairman, hosted a special gathering at the Maquamé Massoumines Mosque in Saint Denis welcoming representatives from the Sunni, Bohra, Ismaili, Hindu Tamil and Christian communities. Also, in attendance were the representative of the Indian Consulate, reflecting the spirit of unity and interfaith harmony that marks the commemoration of Milad-un-Nabi (SAWW).

In 2015, the Regional Council in Madagascar in collaboration with KSI Jamaat of Tananarive hosted a Milad-un-Nabi celebration combined with the Wiladat Khushali of Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq (AS). Dignitaries included the Ambassadors of India and Iran, representatives of Sunni, Bohra, Ismaili and Hindu communities as well as consuls of different countries based in Madagascar. 

The Chairman Alhaj Navazaly Molou spoke passionately on the noble character of Prophet Muhammad (SAWW) admired by all and on the legacy of Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq (AS) whose knowledge and teachings continue to guide generations. The event highlighted the importance of peaceful coexistence and cooperation while also announcing new community projects such as a health clinic.

In December 2015, the KSI Jamaat of Arusha in collaboration with BAKWATA (Muslim Council of Tanzania) organized a two-day Milad-un-Nabi program. The Zafa’a (procession) saw members of different faiths walk side by side. At the main event, speeches by the District Commissioner Hon. Fadhili and regional scholars including Sheikh Shaaban Bin Juma of BAKWATA emphasized the Holy Prophet’s compassion, kindness and inclusivity. Quran recitations, qasidas by Madressa students and a communal meal reinforced the spirit of unity and togetherness.

Milad-un-Nabi has long united our communities, sparked meaningful dialogue and deepened the bonds of brotherhood. These gatherings are more than celebrations; they are living expressions of the Prophet Muhammad (SAWW) as Rahmatulil ‘Alameen - a mercy to all creation.

This year, AFED proudly launches the initiative to celebrate 1500 Years of Compassion, Mercy & Peace - a powerful reminder to reflect, serve and uplift in the spirit of the Holy Prophet’s example. Let us renew our commitment to the timeless values of compassion, justice, knowledge, unity and selflessness and join hands to #SupportThisMission.

SECRETARIAT

ARCHIVES SECTION OF THE AFRICA FEDERATION

19^th September 2025 / 26^th Rabiul Awwal 1447 AH