Vol 39, No. 1 Rabi Al-Thani 1442, A.H. December, 2020

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Federation News • Conferences: Africa Federation, World Federation, Conseil Regional Des Khojas Shia Ithna-Asheri Jamates De L’ocean Indien. • Health: Understanding the Covid-19 Pandemic. • Opinion: Columns from Writers around the World • Qur’an Competition Az Zahra Bilal Centre Tanga • Jamaat Elections Jangid Plaza epitomizes the style and status of business in the Floor for Shopping Center most prestigious location in Dar Es Salaam with its elegant High Speed Internet access capability design and prominent position to the Oysterbay Area. Businesses gain maximum exposure through its strategic location Fully Controllable Air Conditioning in Each Floor on Ally Hassan Mwinyi Road and its close proximity to the CCTV cameras and access control, monitored from central commercial hub of Dar Es Salaam a prime location for security room world-class companies and brands. 24 Hour Security Amenities: Location: Main Road Ally Hassan Mwinyi Road and Junction of BOOK YOUR SPACE NOW Protea Apartment (Little Theater) Contact us at: Jangid Plaza Ltd. Retail outlets on the ground and mezzanine floor P.O.Box 22028, Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania. 2 Eight Floors of A-Class office Space, Offices ranging fom 109m Sales Hotline: +255 784 737-705, +255 786 286-200 2 to Over 1800m Email: shafi[email protected] Website: www.jangidplaza.co.tz Features: Electronic access cards for secured parking and tenants areas Drop off Area at Building Entrance Designated visitors parking 120 Covered Parking Spaces on Basement Levels Luxurious Interior Design of Ground Floor Lobby Using Marble and Granite Four (4) High Speed Lifts and Two (2) Escalators on Ground Floor for Shopping Center

3. First Word 5. Letters Vol. 39, No. 1 7. News from Around Africa Rabi Al-Thani 1442, A.H. December 2020 52. Muslim World News 54. Down Memory Lane 56. Health: Understanding the 7 AFED 27th Triennial Conference. Covid-19 Pandemic Sharmeen Mehralli 58. Obituaries 72. Guest Column: Educational Pathways 74. Guest Column: The Need for a Community Think Tank 76. ANON 77. Family Issues 22 78. Spirituality CROI 36th Ordinary General Assembly. 81. Talking Point 83. In Perspective 87. Wayside Wisdom

Family Issues Mohamed Khalfan 34 Spirituality AFED Tower. Zakira Shyrose Jaffer-Dhalla

In Perspective Mahjabeen Daya Cover: Africa Federation’s AFED Tower, a commercial Wayside Wisdom and residential 12-storey Munir Daya building located on the corner of Jamhuri and Mwisho Street in Dar es Salaam. AFED Guest Columnists Tower is due for completion in Mohamed Takim December, 2020. Mohamed Zahir Alimohamed 6356 Dr. Shahnaaz Kassam Sharif Understanding the Covid-19 Pandemic.

4 Federation Samachar Federation Samachar - A Media that calls for free and rational thoughts

Volunteering with the Africa Federation (AFED) Editorial Media Board is an honour. It is a privilege to reach out to the community through objective reporting, opinions and articles. This is with an intention of raising the level of awareness about Islam and about our community and its achievements and activities while also remembering the accomplishments of our ancestors that have brought the community to its present reputable status around the world.

It is the objective of the Editorial Board to encourage readers to express and share their thoughts and articulate their opinions candidly and constructively. Each member of the community worldwide has a right to express information, ideas, suggestions or opinions as long as these opinions have a genuine objective to lead our community towards betterment.

However, freedom of expression is not absolute. Opinions that could result in libel or slander cannot be published nor can any form of obscenity, incitement, copyright violations, sedition or any article that that could result in unintended harm.

It is important for our media to encourage dialogue and to allow community members of different age groups to have access to the leadership through the media in order to have their questions answered. Leaders and preachers have always assured the community that they are open to hear from people about sensitive issues that may call for reformation. While the assurance is there, many community members with questions or constructive suggestions lack an appropriate forum to seek answers to their questions or to have their opinions heard.

The Federation Samachar is the community’s oldest surviving community magazine. Over the years it has allowed reasonable freedom of expression for the betterment of the community. We will strive to make this media free of unreasonable restrictions in order to encourage intellectual dialogue amongst readers and to correct misconceptions and educate people on sensitive issues.

The objective of this media is to seek improvement in our society while also encouraging community members to care for the improvement and betterment of the broader society in Africa or in any part of the world. This media will also continue to highlight the achievements of our people and organizations in order to inspire others to also achieve.

We welcome readers, one and all, young and old, good writers or not, to interact through the community media. A community that has members who think and write constructively is considered a vibrant and progressive community.

Federation Samachar 5 6 Federation Samachar An Admirable ‘Spirituality’ Column I would like to express my appreciation Zakira Shyrose’s last article entitled, to the Federation Samachar magazine “Taking the first important step” (April for carrying the column on Spirituality 2019) once again did not fail to inspire by Zakira Shyrose Jaffer Dhalla. and motivate. It made me feel like not giving up. It made me feel like anything I love reading her columns in the is possible. Her words filled my heart Federation Samachar and try to never with hope and joy and, like she always miss an article by her. While the makes me feel in all her majalis, that we magazine also has other articles of must seek the Pleasure of Allah swt in interest I make special time to read the all our actions. Spirituality column in the magazine on- All letters sent by mail or email will be line. considered for publication unless the author I thank her for the powerful reminder specifically refuses its publication. that Allah swt is Most Forgiving and I am also an avid fan of her Majalis and Letters must carry the name and contact used to make every effort to travel great Most Merciful and I thank the editors information of the author even if this is not distances to never miss her majlis when for such a wonderful magazine. intended for publication. she came to recite Ashra in India in Letters will be subject to editing for brevity, 2017 and 2018. Zeenat Ladak clarity and content. Mumbai, India Only destructive letters and those lacking I live in Mumbai and the online objectivity or reason will not be published. magazine is the only way I can access All past magazines of the Federation your magazine. Thus, I request the Readers are requested to keep letters short Samachar can be read online on and to the point. Letters can be sent to: editors to please not delay and to please the Africa Federation website: www. [email protected] upload all magazines as soon as these africafederation.org . - Editor. are printed. ‘Understanding India and Pakistan’s 72 year old dispute over Kashmir’ Column is commendable Thank you so much for a very seems that the world may never be able The endless years of continued informative and scholarly discussion on to ever understand some of the deep attacks has destroyed the most basic the history and politics of the Kashmir and underlying issues. And now they infrastructure including hundreds of dispute. have become silenced and are being building foundations. The resulting prevented from contacting the outside poverty is simply heartbreaking to Mahjabeen Daya has attempted to world. behold. summarize a very complicated chain of events that has taken place over 72 I visited the Pakistani side of Kashmir One wonders how it can ever be rebuilt. years and which is still ongoing. It is last year with a few close friends. It How it can ever be restored to its original definitely not an easy task to do so and truly is a breathtakingly beautiful place glory. How will the people ever be able to I commend her for her efforts. The and the people are so welcoming and forget all this pain and misery? article was published just a few months generous. Spending time with the before the internet lockdown and was people there helped to put a face to I thank Mahjabeen Daya for bringing very timely for those who had never the people that we have been hearing awareness and for reminding us about before taken an interest in what is about for so many years. These people, the history of the Kashmiri people. happening in that region. no matter which side they live on are Politics aside, we need to keep the plight human beings with real lives and needs. of these people in our minds so that no As someone who has been born and Their lives are spent in constant fear. one can forget them. May Allah (SWT) raised in Pakistan, the Kashmir issue They deserve to have a peaceful life hasten the reappearance of our Imam is close to my heart. The political free of war and dispute. They deserve Zamana (ATJFS), Ameen. situation started long before I was access to healthcare, education, even born. The terrible situation has internet and everything else that all of Mohamed Jarrie Abbas been going on for so long that it almost us have. Lahore, Pakistan

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From L: Anwarali Dharamsi (the then President of the World Federation) congratulating AFED Chairman, Shabir Najafi; also in the photo are AFED Office Bearers at the main table including Aunali Khalfan (AFED Vice Chairman) (standing) and Hussein Karim, then AFED Hon. Secretary (seated).

During the 27th Triennial Conference member of AFED after AFED delegates Mohamedraza Rashid (Vice Chairman and the 81st Supreme Council Session of unanimously voted for their inclusion. of Mombasa Jamaat), on behalf of the Federation of KSI Jamaats of Africa A delegation from Malawi, consisting of Organizing Committee welcomed all the hosted by KSI Jamaat Mombasa from Kazim Raza Devjiani (Chairman), Sadiq participants followed by a short address 12th to 14th April 2019, Shabbir Najafi Ali Somani (Vice Chairman), Salim Raza by the Chairman of Mombasa Jamaat, was re-elected as Chairman of the Africa Dodhia (Secretary General) and Fayyaz Mohamed Jaffer. Federation for the term 2019 – 2022. Nathani (Committee Member) attended the conference. The Conference was attended by over Anwarali Dharamsi, then President of the 150 delegates, councilors and invitees In Malawi, Lilongwe has 42 registered World Federation provided an update of from constituent jamaats from mainland members, Blantyre has about 12 families the activities and programs undertaken Africa, Madagascar, Reunion, Dubai, and Mzuzu has four families. Only by the World Federation. He announced India and the U.K. Invitees present Lilongwe Jamaat is formally registered the launch of the “Khojanews” website included the then World Federation and encouraged members to make President, Anwarali Dharamsi, and the For the first time a Seniors’ Forum was positive use of social media. then Pakistan Federation President, organized on Thursday night (11th April Anver Rajpar. There was a record 2019). This provided a good forum for Following his induction, the AFED attendance of women Councillors from seniors to share their opinions with the Chairman, Shabir Najafi thanked the community and following deliberations it Madagascar. community in Africa for re-electing him was agreed to have a Seniors’ Desk under unopposed for the term 2019 – 2022. He During the Session many deliberations the Africa Federation Secretariat. briefed the attendees of the visit of the took place covering different challenges facing the community. The Opening Ceremony of the Session AFED Delegation to Najaf to meet the was held on Friday night (12th April, Marje-e-Taqleed in February 2019 and At the Conference, the Jafri Muslim 2019) with the recitation of Sura Ash presented his vision and goals for the association of Malawi became a new Shams. new term.

Federation Samachar 9 Presentations and Awards: The Chairman, Shabir Najafi bestowed Husseini, Abbasi and Fatemi Medals to six prominent members of the Community in recognition of their honorary, extraordinary selfless services to the community and to humanity at large. Citations for each of the recipients were read out giving a brief chronicle of their outstanding achievements and significant contributions: 1. Masuma Raza Kara of Mombasa received the Fatemi Medal. 2. Mohamed Hemani of Mombasa received a Husseini Medal. 3. Dr. Mohamed H. Jaffer of Mombasa was presented with a Husseini From L: Mrs. Shaheen Shabir Najafi escorts Masuma Raza Kara of Mombasa to Medal. the stage to receive a Fatemi Medal presented by Rehana Mohamed Jaffer. 4. Ahmed Daya of the U.K. (not present at the meeting) received a Husseini Medal. 5. Masumali Meghji of Mombasa was presented with an Abbasi Medal. 6. Tehsin Takim of Dar-es-Salaam was presented with an Abbasi Medal.

The Chairman’s Appreciation Award was presented to Sajjad Rashid of Mombasa in recognition of his honorary, benevolent and dedicated services to the Africa Federation, the community in Africa and globally. From L: Amine Nassor (Chairman, Union des Associations Khodjas Shia Isna Ashri de la Reunion (UAKSIR) and AFED Vice Chairman) presenting an Abbasi The Chairman’s Appreciation Award was Medal to Masumali Meghji of Mombasa. also presented to Mombasa Jamaat for hosting the 27th Ordinary Conference and the 81st Supreme Council Session.

Elections: The following officials were elected at the elections conducted by the Electoral Commissioner: Vice Chairman: Aunali Khalfan Hon. Treasurer: Zainul Chandoo

Trustees: Anwarali Dharamsi, Tanzania Mehboob Versi, Tanzania Faridun S. Abdallah, Kenya Sajjad Rashid, Kenya Ebrahim Kassam, Uganda From L: Dr. Mohamed H. Jaffer of Mombasa being presented with a Husseini Abid Raza Shivji, Madagascar Medal by AFED Chairman, Shabir Najafi. Razaly Asgaraly, Reunion

10 Federation Samachar 4. The AFED Housing Foundation Fund. The Secretariat and the Board officials made brief and informative presentations of the reports for the term ended 2019 as follows: 1. Minutes of the 26th Triennial Conference: Alihassan Kassam. 2. Membership Application of Lilongwe: Hussein Karim. 3. Constitutional Amendments and Resolutions: Alihassan Kassam. 4. Secretariat Report: Hussein Karim. 5. Capacity Building Group: Shabbirhussein Khalfan. 6. Archives Section: Murtaza Jivraj. (Centre) Sajjad Rashid receiving the Chairman’s Appreciation Award from 7. Marketing Team: Alihassan Kassam. 8. Census Bureau: Shiraz Walji / Sajjad the then World Federation President, Anwarali Dharamsi (L) and past World Karamsi. Federation President, Dr. Asghar Moledina (R). 9. Audited Accounts Budget and Trust Board Report: Mohamed Hemani. Electoral Commissioner: Gulamabbas Constitution on the addition to the 10. Tabligh Board (AFTAB): Seyed Khaku - Mombasa number of Trustees to include Trustees Hassan Naqvi. Internal Auditor: Aliabbas Nasser - Dar- from Madagascar and Reunion was 11. Africa Youth Network (AYN): Sajjad es-Salaam. deliberated upon and approved. Karamsi. External Auditor: Assad Associates -Dar- 12. Education Board: Farhan Yusuf, es-Salaam. The following Resolutions presented by Samir Habib. the Secretariat were also deliberated and 13. Sports Council: Mohamedhussein Deliberations: approved: Somji. The Conference Agenda included 1. Renewal of Resolution for 14. Central Health Board (CHB): Aunali the presentation and adoption of the Management of Property Portfolio. Khalfan. Accounts, Minutes, Resolutions and the 2. Formation of Economic 15. Central Bilal Board (CBB)/Regional Board Reports for the term, 2016 - 2019. Development Board. Bilal Muslim Missions: Mohsin The Amendment proposed by the 3. Formation of Capacity Building Lalji, Fatema Sayani Secretariat to the Africa Federation Board. and Murtaza Jaffer. 16. Economic and Housing Development Board: Shakera Dhanani, Akil Hirji. The Mombasa Jamaat Managing Committee, the Organizing Committee and volunteers for the Session rendered excellent services as did the team of ladies who provided sumptuous meals during the conference. The Secretariat thanked the Presidents of the World Federation and Pakistan Federation for their attendance and for providing valuable contributions in the deliberations in the Conference and Supreme Council Sessions. The Secretariat also thanked delegates and invitees for their presentations and attendance which added great value to the overall objectives of the Conference Mohamed Hemani receiving the Husseini Medal. and Supreme Council Sessions.

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Computer Science and Management useful information for the management. Studies from the University of With his keen interest to pursue Nottingham, and a Masters Degree religious studies, Zuhair travelled to in Business Administration from Qom in Iran for Islamic studies in the Sunderland University, U.K. year 2014 and studied with the Jamiatul Mustafa Hawza for five years. During this He has served the community as time he studied subjects such as Arabic Assistant Secretary of the Nairobi Grammar, Logic, Philosophy, History, Jamaat during the term 2012-2014 Aqaid, Fiqh, Usul, Ahkam and Akhlaq. thereby acquiring a wide experience office administration, personnelHe has over five years of experience management skills and public relations. working as the Research and Under the provisions of Article 16 (a) of During this period, he played an Development Manager at Liquid the constitution of the Africa Federation, important role in the development and Telecom, and a further five years of Chairman Shabir Najafi appointed initialization of various digitalization experience running a business of his own Zuhair Jaffer to the position of Honorary projects of the Jamaat, and assisted in in Nairobi. Secretary of the Africa Federation for improving the Jamaat’s infrastructure. the current term 2019-2022. By virtue AFED Chairman Shabir Najafi of this appointment, Zuhair Jaffer Zuhair has been an active member congratulated and welcomed Zuhair becomes an Office Bearer and a member of the Nairobi Jamaat since he was a Jaffer to the team and stated that, of the Secretariat Team of the Africa student at the Haydari Madrassah. After “Zuhair Bhai’s past experience and the Federation. completing his studies at the Madrassah, knowledge acquired in the institutions he went on to teach and assist the he has been involved with for the Zuhair is married with three children Madrassah administration to develop past several years shall be an added and lives with his family in Nairobi, software which has been instrumental in advantage to AFED in his role as Kenya. He holds an Honours Degree in maintaining data of students and other Honorary Secretary.” Hasnain Sherally is new AFED Chief Operating Officer routine management systems and to Society) for two consecutive years and coordinate day-to-day activities with after graduating from the Madrassah, the various AFED Boards. he continued assisting in its activities for a further two years. Hasnain brings invaluable experience to the Secretariat team and will be Hasnain was convenor for the Africa stationed in Dar es Salaam where he Federation’s Solidarity Day event for was born and raised. He is married with the year 2017. He was also the lead for a child. He holds an Honours Degree Africa during the World Federation’s in Business from the University of then Project North Star from 2016- Greenwich and has had over eight years 2018. of experience in Business Development and Management. In November, 2019, Hasnain Mohamed Hasnain aims to achieve coherence and Sherally was recruited as the Chief Hasnain has been an active member efficiency in the day to day operations Operating Officer (COO) of the Africa of the community ever since he of the organization by introducing Federation (AFED). This is a new was a student of the Dar es Salaam Standard Operating Procedures position at the Secretariat created Hussayni Madrassah. He served as Vice with Advanced Technology that will by the Africa Federation for the term President of the Development Society streamline the activities of AFED to 2019-2022 to improve performance of (then referred to as the Debating improve productivity.

Federation Samachar 13 Sibtein Asaria appointed Chairman of AFED’s new Economic Development Board

He was the Co-Founder of Grupo East Africa and to develop strategies, Alfa Corporation, a leading business governance and feasibility plans for conglomerate based in the Republic of these schemes. Costa Rica with business interests on three more continents. Br. Asaria has been an active volunteer for his local Jamaats when in Grupo Alfa is a conglomerate of Mozambique and also in Canada, Costa ten major local and international Rica and recently in Dubai, UAE. He was companies, with different commercial appointed the ambassador for the Jaffari backgrounds spreading from real estate Community Centre, a landmark project development, construction, finance, in Toronto, Canada, where he helped retail, family entertainment, insurance, raise donations from the worldwide fast food and mining. Br. Sibtein’s most Khoja community. recent venture is healthcare, with an At the 27th Conference of the Africa emphasis on developing care homes for He was WF Executive Councillor for Federation (AFED) held in Mombasa, the elderly across Europe. 2011-2013 and 2013-2017, and most Kenya in April 2019, the Africa recently was elected again for 2017- Federation (AFED) resolved to form an His interest stretches from Costa Rica 2020. He is also the elected Chairman to the United Arab Emirates, Portugal Economic Development Board to cater of The World Federation Foundation and countries in East and West Africa. for the needs of our KSI Community. Fund project, a cause he is passionate His global credentials are underlined about as he feels the community’s by the fact that he speaks English, Sibtein Asaria, who is a member of the organisations must be run in a Spanish, French, Portuguese, Hindi Nampula Jamaat in Mozambique was sustainable, measurable and strategic and Gujarati. By carefully nurturing appointed to head the AFED Economic manner. He believes the Foundation strong relationships with individuals, Development Board. Fund will help strengthen The World corporates and conglomerates around Federation for future generations. the globe, he has consistently increased Sibtein has a keen interest in the the Group’s international footprint. education and economic development of He was also part of the highly effective our community. He is an accomplished team of the World and Africa Federation Committed to an ethos of adding global entrepreneur, a dedicated value to the Khoja community and to which rescued some 450 Khoja philanthropist, and a talented social humanity at large, Sibtein has also Community members from war-torn worker. He began his business career in played a significant role in several World Yemen in 2015. He deployed many 1982 by starting a food-manufacturing Federation (WF) projects. of his contacts at governmental level business during his university years. He worldwide to ensure the safe rescue subsequently expanded the company In December 2018, Sibtein was and re-settlement of our community into a coffee-roasting business, supplying appointed WF Executive Councillor with members then in Yemen. customers in Canada and up to 17 states the portfolio of Eradication of Poverty in of the United States of America. Khojas. In this capacity, he spearheaded The following are the other members of fundraising drives for the Haydari the Economic Development Board: In 1989, Sibtein visited Costa Rica to Benevolent Trust (HBT) - Karachi, vertically integrate the business; two for small business loan schemes to lift Ahmed Daya, Vice Chairman. years later he moved to Costa Rica and Khoja families out of poverty. He is now Mustafa Kassam, Member. began investing in real estate projects. assigned to replicate the HBT model in Sidika Hirji, Member.

14 Federation Samachar Akil Hirji re-appointed as Chairman of the Africa Federation Housing Development Board

In July, 2019, the Chairman of Africa and community-based housing projects of the community through facilitating Federation (AFED), Shabir Najafi in Dar es Salaam, Tanga, Nairobi, affordable housing and encouraging self- announced the re-appointment of Madagascar. Plans are underway to start sustainability. He is also actively involved Akil Hirji as Chairman of the Africa the KSIJ Malawi Mosque Project in 2021. in supporting social and professional Federation Housing Development Board services for the underprivileged people for the term 2019-2022. Akil was born in Zanzibar and completed both inside and outside the community.” his secondary education in Dar-es- Akil has served AFED in this role since Salaam. He is a successful businessman 2014, during which he has successfully Following are the other members of the and is currently involved in a number managed several capital projects. During Housing Development Board of AFED: of family business ventures in Dar- this tenure, his effective leadership 1. Shakera bai Kassim Dhanani, Vice has enabled AFED towards achieving es-salaam. He is married and has two Chairperson – Dar-es-Salaam. the aims and objects of the Housing children. 2. Zakiya bai Riyazali Khamisa, Legal Development Board’s various projects. Advisor- Dar-es-Salaam. His contribution to community, and 3. Mohamed Bandali, Member – His track record of seventeen years of voluntary services span almost 35 Nairobi. experience in the construction field years. The AFED Secretariat stated 4. Yusuf Jiwa, Member – Mombasa. (covering community, commercial that “Akilbhai’s enthusiasm and 5. Navazaly Molou, Member – and private projects), has contributed commitment in serving the community Madagascar. to the success of the AFED Housing has remained unwavering. His passion 6. Ashfak Vallimamod, Member – Development Board. has always been in supporting the Madagascar. AFED has several ongoing projects which institution in its endeavours towards 7. Salim Raza Dodhia, Member – include commercial income generating economical upliftment of the members Malawi. Dr. Shahnaaz Kassam Sharif appointed as Central Health Board Chairman Graduate Diploma in Hygiene and Tropical Fortification Initiative for leadership Medicine and a Master of Science (MSc) in flour fortification in Kenya. in Health Systems from the University of • 2007 Moran of Burning Spear (MBS) London. Since 2014, he has been working by the President of Kenya. as the Chief Executive Officer of Jaffery Medical Centre, Mombasa after having Dr. Shahnaaz is a Member of the Kenya worked with the Ministry of Health of Association of Physicians. He has been a Kenya from 1985 to 2014 in various Board Member of Mombasa County Health positions, including being the Director of Board since 2016, and a Member of the Public Health from 2007-2014. International Centre for the Reproductive Health (ICRH), Kenya since 2009. He has been recognized with several prominent awards by the Government of The CHB Board (health@africafederation. Kenya and international organizations. org) also includes the following members, In September, 2019, Dr. Shahnaaz Kassam The awards include: based in the cities mentioned below: Sharif of Mombasa was appointed as the Chairman of the Central Health Board of • 1997: Order of Grand Warrior (OGW) Farhan Yusuf, Vice Chairman (Dar-es- the Africa Federation. by the President of Kenya. Salaam). • 2012 Honor Award International Rubab Salim, Hon Secretary (Mombasa). Dr. Shahnaaz Sharif graduated in 1977 from the Centers of Disease Control Mohamed Hussein Sheriff, Member with a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery and Prevention (CDC) for work (Arusha). (MBChB) degree from the University of on Aflatoxin Surveillance and Dr. Zahra Nagri, Member (Dar-es-Salaam). Nairobi. He acquired a Master’s degree Monitoring. Zohair Vally, Member (Madagascar). in Internal Medicine in 1985. He holds a • 2008 Leadership Award from Flour Dr. Mazaher Jaffer, Member (Nairobi).

Federation Samachar 15 Africa Federation 2020-2022 Election Round Up

Nairobi Jamaat (held on 8 Trustee: Dr. Asghar Moledina, Chairman, Caretaker: Mohamed Abbas Jaffer November, 2020) Board of Trustees Trustee: Kausarali T.H. Rajani Chairman: Zaheer Abbas Khimji Trustee: Parvez Merchant, Vice Chairman, Trustee: Hussein R. M. Dhalla Vice-Chairman: Maisam Somani Board of Trustees Trustee: Mohamed Abbas Jaffer Hon. Secretary: Amirali Rashid Assistant Secretary: Muhammed Jaffer Dar es Salaam Jamaat (held on 18 Kampala Jamaat (held on 5 July, Hon. Treasurer: Mujaheed Khatau September, 2020) 2020) Assistant Treasurer: Mohammed Taki President: Mohamedraza Dewji President: Sibtain Merchant Rashid Vice President: Abdulrasul Shamji Committee Member: Abbas Kalyan Hon. Secretary: Zulfikar Chandoo Vice President: Shabbar Virani Committee Member: Abbas Yusuf Hon. Assistant Secretary: Imran Sherali Hon. Secretary: Mohamed Imran Sheriff Committee Member: Hasnain J Jagani Hon. Treasurer: Muhammadasghar Shivji Joint Secretary: Raza Jivani Committee Member: Mohammed Kanani Committee Member: Abbasali Hirji Hon. Treasurer: Mohamedraza G. Manji Committee Member: Raheel Abbas Committee Member: Abbas Jessa, Abbas Asst. Treasurer: Riyaz Mithani Karmali Committee Member: Sikander Mohamed Hon. Mukhi: Siraj Ali Habib Committee Member: Shahid Tarmohammed Committee Member: Arif Dhirani Asst. Mukhi: Afzal Bhimani Trustee: Amirali Nanji Committee Member: Hassan Dewji Committee Member: Jamil Alibhai Trustee: Iqbal Somani Committee Member: Murtaza H. Lalji Committee Member: Shamir Manji Committee Member: Sajjad Dharamsi Trustee: Mohamed Raza Hashmani Committee Member: Hasnain Haider Ali Trustee: Azim Dewji Committee Member: Imran Vakil Arusha Jamaat (held on 18 October, Trustee: Gulamhussein Kermalli 2020) Trustee: Dr. Jaffer Dharsee Committee Member: Hadi Haider Ali Chairman: Mustafa M. Virjee Trustee: Sajjad Jusab Committee Member: Hasnain Farishta Vice Chairman: Fayyaz Dhirani Committee Member: Shabbir Kassamali Hon Secretary: Hussein Sajan Kinshasa (held on 9 September, 2020) Hon Treasurer: Minhal Gulamhussein President: Dilawar Hussain Khwaja Hujjatul Islam Jamaat, Zanzibar Deputy Treasurer: Shakeel Sheriff Hon. Treasurer: Zamirabbas M. Mistry (held on 28 July, 2020) Committee Member: Sibtain Sajan Hon. Secretary: Danish Raza Sarani President: Sajjad Hussain Tarmohamed Committee Member: Mohamedhussein Committee Member: Hussain Lakhani Honorary Secretary: Ali Khalil Mirza Sheriff Committee Member: Sabir Poonawala Honorary Treasurer: Shihab Hassan Trustee: Gulamhussein Mukhtar Committee Member: Sadiq Kanani Taki Committee Member: Shabbir Bharvani Trustee: Mohamedraza Pyarali Honorary Assistant Secretary: Abbas Trustee: Murtaza Valli Committee Member: Yousuf Raza Dalwala Ibrahim Trustee: Shabbir Virjee Trustee: Saeed Vazir – Chairman Board of Honorary Assistant Treasurer: Ijaaz Sivji Trustee: Tahseel Sheriff Trustees, Trustee: Amin Virani Trustee: Mohamed Suleiman Maputo Jamaat (held on 28 Trustee: Asif Dalwala Trustee: Murtaza Giga September, 2020) Trustee: Gulam Ali Khoja Trustee: Bashir Kanji President: Muhammad Kashif Khetani Trustee: Mohammad Khwaja Vice President: Syed Hassan Abbas Zaidi Bujumbura Jamaat (held on 17 Hon. Secretary: Ali Raza Abdulcarim Songea Jamaat (held on 18 August June, 2020) Hon. Treasurer: Syed Kamran Abbas Rizvi 2020) Chairman: Hur Taki Fazal Committee Member: Syed Shakeeb Chairman: Sadique Yusufali Meghji Vice Chairman: Shahnawaz M. Manji Raza Naqvi Hon Secretary: Abbas Hemani Hon. Secretary: Sajjadali R. Rajabali Committee Member: Syed Ali Iftekhar Naqvi Hon Treasurer: Hussein R.M. Dhalla Assistant Treasurer/Secretary: Committee Member: Syed Tehseen Committee Member: Kauthar T.H.Rajani Mohamedabbas M. Habib Committee Member: Hussein R.M. Dhalla Ahmed Abdi Committee Member: Zishan A. Somji Committee Member: Syed Zuhair Abidi Committee Member: Mohamed Abbas Committee Member: Mehdi J. Habib Committee Member: Syed Imran Husein Jaffer Naqvi Committee Member: Jabir K.T.H. Committee Member: Mohamedabbas R. Committee Member: Syed Danyal Jaffery Rajani Sherali Committee Member: Syed Nasir Husein Committee Member: Zamin Abbas M. Trustee: Roshanali Sherali and Naqvi Jaffer Trustee: Nasirali Fazel

16 Federation Samachar Seyed Hassan Naqvi Re-appointed as Chairman of the Tabligh Board (AFTAB)

In February, 2020, Seyed Hassan Naqvi and logistics company based in Dar es Dr. Alihussein Molloo, Hon. Secretary was re-appointed as the Chairman of the Salaam, Tanzania. He is married to Fatim Somji, Member Africa Federation Tabligh Board (AFTAB) Rehana bai, (daughter of past President Issoufaly Talib Reza, Member, Reunion for the term 2019 - 2022. He has served in of Dar es Salaam Jamaat, Rajabali - (UAKSIR) the same position for three terms since Amarsi Alibhai), and they have four Kumail Haji, Member 2011. His experience and dedication in children. Minhal Shivji, Member the field of tabligh will provide renewed Rukaiya Kermali, Member impetus in meeting the goals and Seyed Hassan has served in various Zahir Aly Mohammad Abbass, Member, objectives of the Board aligned with the capacities in the organizations of our Madagascar - (CROI) vision and goals for internal tabligh in all community in Africa and in the U.K. Mehjabeen Khaki, Administrative Jamaats under the Africa Federation. these are: Secretary 1984 - 1992 – Chairman, Khoja Shia Seyed Hassan Naqvi is the eldest son Ithna-Asheri Jamaat, Dodoma. The AFTAB team expects to improve of late Maulana Seyed Ansar Hussein 1999 – 2003 – Hon. Secretary – networking with institutions of higher Naqvi, one of the first Missionaries under Birmingham Jamaat. Islamic learning. Attention will also Africa Federation to serve our community 2010 – 2019 - Chairman – Africa be placed on the monitoring of the in Africa since 1953. Late Seyed Ansar Federation Tabligh Board (AFTAB). reformation of our Madressahs in Hussein was a graduate from Madrassatul 2011 - 2014 - Electoral Commissioner – Africa to promote and harness better Waezeen in Lucknow, India and was the World Federation. understanding of the religion of Islam, resident preacher for Dodoma Jamaat. the Holy Qur’an and the Madh’ab of The AFTAB Board consists of the Ahlulbayt (AS) and to develop teaching Seyed Hassan is the Director of TBX following additional members: standards of Madressah teachers and Global Freight Tanzania Ltd., a transport Shabbir Yusufali, Vice Chairman administrators. Kumail Rahim Appointed as Chairman of the Africa Federation Youth Network Board (AYN) youth, be it as an active volunteer at The AYN team will work with youth bodies the mosque, a teacher at madrassah, or within the AFED Constituent Jamaats and assisting in organizing youth camps and enhance data collection. They also plan events. to have online and physical interactive seminars/discourses regularly to discuss The following are also members of the Africa Federation Youth Network (AYN): contemporary issues faced by our youth and to arrange youth get-togethers. Alireza Surati - Vice Chairman Syeda Narjis Zahra Baqri - Secretary Kumail said that a priority in this term Abbas Ally Shehzad - Treasurer as Chairman of the AFED Youth Network Ali Khalfan - Team Member Board is to improve AYN’s connections Dr. Faryal Raza - Team Member Kumail Rahim of Arusha has been with the youths of Madagascar, Reunion Dr. Mujahid Manji - Team Member and Mauritius so that they are also appointed as the Chairman of the Africa Hussein Dhirani - Team Member involved within the working procedures of Federation (AFED) Youth Network Board Rida Mujtaba Sajan - Team Member (AYN) for the term 2019-2022. Siddiqa A. Anwarali - Team Member the Board. He says that he aspires to assist Mohamedhussein Raza - Representative the youth of the community, and believes Kumail is 24 years old; he recently - Dar es Salaam in the concept of “self-learning to unlock completed his MSc Economics Degree Asgher Azad - Representative - Mombasa one’s potential and self-worth in a bid to from the University of Birmingham, U.K. Shabbarali Khimji - Representative – be of service to promote volunteerism and He has firsthand experience working with Nairobi development, for the better of all.”

Federation Samachar 17 Sajjad Abdulhussein Karamsi appointed as Chairman of the AFED Education Board

Economics, Statistics and Finance at the Board is in the process of issuing its University of Cape Town. His professional Strategies and Goals for the term career involves working in Credit Risk, 2019-2022 that will be aligned with the Strategy and Operations Consulting. Africa Federation’s broader vision. This will focusing on elevating education Sajjad has been part of the AFED quality, strengthening career guidance, Education Board since 2016. He improving student support and assisting previously also served the Africa Youth with financial and cost management. Network as Honorary Secretary and is an active member of the Africa Federation The following are other appointed Census Bureau. He is a volunteer and members of the Board: In June, 2019, Sajjad Abdulhussein teacher at Haydari Madrasah Nairobi. Karamsi was appointed as the Chairman He also volunteers in various community Dr. Sayyeda Dhalla – Vice Chair of the Education Board of the Africa development projects and helps organize Narjis Thawer – Secreary Federation (AFED) for the term 2019 - youth events. Samir Habib – Member 2022. Mehdiya Sheriff- Member Passionate about education, Sajjad is Farhan Yusuf – Member Sajjad was born in Dar es Salaam. He committed to providing and expanding Ali-Hussein Jagani – Member completed his early education in Nairobi opportunities for all students to pursue Sajida Master – Administrative and earned his Bachelor’s Degree in high-quality education. The Education Secretary . Fazle Ali Kassam Appointed as Chairman, AFED Sports Council

team that is currently the champion team Committee. in the Tanzanian Premier League. Fazal worked as a Treasurer with them when The following are other appointed Simba was the only Tanzanian team members of the Sports Council: to have made it to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Finals. Shakeel Nazarali, Vice Chairman (Dar- es-Salaam) Being an active sportsman, he has Tasneem Hassam, Secretary (Dar-es- participated in numerous AFED Sports Salaam) Festivals both as a participant and as Hussein Sajan, Member (Arusha) an official. He has been Chairman of Imtiaz Abbas, Member (Dar-es-Salaam) the Union Sports Club (Dar es Salaam), Cassim Dandjee, Member (Madagascar) Ithnasheri Union (IU), Chairman of the Zainab Karim, Member (Mombasa) In November, 2019 Fazle Ali Kassam, Organizing Committee of the Urafiki Azim Shivji, Member (Nairobi) (also known as Fazal) was appointed as Sports Festival (held in Dar es Salaam in the Chairman of the Africa Federation 2011), and has served as a member of the Fazal aims to further foster sports (AFED) Sports Council for the term 2019 Sports Council under the Chairmanship development in the community by - 2022. He was born in Kigoma in 1962 of Mahmood Somji. ensuring that there are equal sporting and moved to Dar es Salaam in 1993 opportunities for both men and women. where he currently runs a successful Fazal has served as a Councilor of the stationery and logistics business. Africa Federation and rendered services In line with AFED’s vision he will work to various community institutions in towards identifying sporting talent within Fazal is an avid sports fan and in the early Dar-es-Salaam, including the Husayni the community and help people reach 1990s he was the Treasurer of Simba Madrassa, Juloos Committee, Mayyit their full potential to become professional Sports Club, a popular Tanzania football committee and the Solidarity Day Ad-Hoc sportspersons.

18 Federation Samachar Saida Sajjad Rashid of Mombasa Appointment Chairperson of The Africa Federation (AFED) Women’s Board

Saida is one of the mediators of the by hosting regular health AFED Marital Mediation team. She has programs; undertaken various training programs ii. Creating awareness on mental organized by the World Federation health and providing guidance which include, the Neuro-Psychology through establishing help lines of Learning from Madrasah Centre of and access to professional Excellence, Certificate of Attendance assistance; from The World Federation – Leadership iii. Boosting the success of Development Programme and Certificate marriages and family of Participation from the Women’s Needs relationships. This will Assessment Programme. include organising pre-marital couple/individual sessions in After completing her secondary education collaboration with the Capacity In July, 2019, Saida Sajjad Rashid of in 1984, she pursued a diploma course for Building Group of AFED Mombasa, Kenya wa appointed to the post one year in Dressmaking. She has been along with access to marital of Chairperson of the Africa Federation involved in family businesses since 1986 counselling facilities. and from 1999 she became one of the Women’s Board for the term 2019 - 2022. iv. Organising family workshops Directors of Milly Fruits Processors Ltd. Saida Bai is an active social worker and seminars. v. To initiate Economic Upliftment who is experienced in team leadership, The following are the other members event organization and mentorship. She Programs and training for appointed to the Women Board for the women. has been involved in organising several new term: - events for women in Mombasa Jamaat. Sabira Mohamedali Sadak, Secretary. 2) To create an effective communication Shaznaan Merali, Assistant Secretary. platform involving member jamaats She has participated in several Neelam Jiwa, Member. of AFED, with collaboration of other conferences and Supreme Council Sakina Gulamhusein, Member. Boards of AFED. Sessions. She supports development of The goals of the team for the term are: 3) To organize women’s programs and the roles of women in the community and events throughout the year involving also has a keen interest in uplifting the 1) To improve the quality of social member jamaats of AFED through welfare of the underprivileged people in wellbeing through: Women’s Board representatives in the local society. i. Uplifting health awareness the jamaats.

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Federation Samachar 19 Shabbirhussein Khalfan appointed as the Chairman of the AFED Capacity Building Group Board

In May, 2019, Shabbirhussein Pyarali Khalfan was appointed as the Chairman of the Africa Federation Capacity Building Group (CBG) Board for the term 2019 - 2022. This Board was established following the adoption of a Resolution presented by the AFED Secretariat at the 27th Ordinary Conference held in Mombasa in April 2019.

The key focus of the CBG Board will be to conduct workshops and development training within AFED Jamaats and to support other Regional Federations and community members when necessary.

Shabbirhussein has served as Treasurer of the World Federation CBG during the term 2013- 2016 and as the Lead for CBG for the term 2016 – 2019. His passion in the field of education and training gained over the years has helped him in his personal development and to guide our institution judiciously. His vast experience as a life coach, mentor and facilitator presents an added advantage in supporting CBG’s objectives. Tool Administrator for both, Test User Occupational Ability and Shabbirhussein was born in Bukoba where he attended primary Personality. and secondary school education; he pursued ‘A’ levels education at Mazengo in Dodoma. He holds a Bachelors of Science in Shabbirhussein has served the Jamaat and community in Systems Analysis and a Design Degree from the Institute of Data noteworthy ways: Processing Management in the U.K. He holds several credentials - He established the Fikrafya Foundation with a vision to create as a facilitator and meditator in personal development fields like awareness and fight stigma involving mental health. Mental Health, Psychotherapy, Art Therapy, Neuro Linguistic - He is a founder member and secretary of the Izaas Medical programming, First Aid and Community Fit Champion Trainer. project charity organization which has a track record of He is also a British Psychology Society certified Psychometric donating more than 1000 artificial limbs, prosthesis and walking aids; these are crafted from locally available resources in developing countries. - At the Jamaat level he has served in various volunteer positions such as discipline head, Madressah teacher, Welfare committee member, Vice Chairman, Education Board Representative, Health Board Representative and Councilor to the Supreme Council of Africa Federation. - He was the Founder Chairman of Jaffery Secondary School in Bukoba, the first collaborative project between Shia Ismailia and Shia Ithnaasheri Jamaat of Bukoba in Tanzania. - He is the Head of the Neuropsychology of Learning, as part of the Africa Federation Tabligh Board. - He has collaborated in various Youth Camps in Tanzania, the U.K., and India and has also led groups of volunteers from Europe and America to various communities to serve and to undergo personal development programs.

The following are the other members of the Capacity Building Team for the term 2019 – 2022: Inayat Firdousi, Vice Chairman Shama Dewji, Hon. Secretary Mumtaz Ladak, Member Neelam Jiwa, Member Imran Dhanani, Member Fatema Dharsee, Administrative Secretary.

20 Federation Samachar Hussein A. Karim appointed as Chairman of the Board for AFED’s Bilal Muslim Mission of Tanzania Team, 2019-2022 In October, 2020, the Africa Federation personnel management and public (AFED) Secretariat appointed Hussein A. relations. He has travelled overseas Karim of Dar-es-Salaam as the Chairman extensively and has established good of the Bilal Muslim Mission of Tanzania rapport with numerous overseas religious (BMMT) for the term 2019 - 2022. Hussein institutions, students, and instructors. Karim served as the Hon. Secretary of Africa Federation under the Chairmanship The following is a synopsis of the Hussein of Shabir Najafi from 2016-2019, and for a Karim’s social and voluntary services: duration from June, 2019 to October, 2020, he held the position of Chairman of the 2017 – 2020: AFED Nominated Councillor Central Bilal Board (CBB) before taking to the World Federation. up his current appointment. 2016 - 2019: Hon. Secretary – Africa Federation. Hussein Karim was born on 5th October, 1992 - 1999: Hon, Secretary and Director, 1963 in Zanzibar, Tanzania. He completed 2010 - 2016: Member of the Marriage Board of Directors; School Board Member, his primary education in Singida, and his Reconciliation Board of KSI Jamaat, Dar Mt. Kilimanjaro School in Moshi. secondary education in Moshi. Thereafter es Salaam. he graduated with an international 1989: Hon Secretary, KSI Jamaat, Moshi. baccalaureate from the International 2010 - 2012: Vice Chairman of the Central Medical Board (CMB) of KSI Jamaat, Dar The following are also appointed members School, Moshi. He studied Law at the of the Board of AFED’s BMMT: Open University of Tanzania, and currently es Salaam. he operates a successful business venture 2000 - 2009: Chairman of WIPAHS, and of Abdulwahid Zakaria, Vice Chairman in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Waliul Asr Education Centre, Kibaha. Mohamedraza Bharwani, Hon. Secretary Kumail Haji, Hon. Treasurer Since 1987, Hussein Karim has served in 2003 - 2007: Founder Member and Nyambezi Bakari, Committee Member several public, religious and charitable Chairman of MEDWELL, a Charitable Neelam Manji, Committee Member institutions involved in social and NGO, Kibaha. humanitarian services to communities, The Email contact of Bilal Muslim Mission thereby acquiring a wide range of 1987 - 1999: Hon, Secretary Moshi of Tanzania is: bilaltz@africafederation. experience in office administration, Chamber of Commerce and Industry. org. Zaheera Alishan Raza appointed as Administrative Secretary at Africa Federation On 1st December 2020, The Africa worked in a multicultural environment Federation Secretariat appointed Zaheera that emphasizes diversity and inclusion Alishan Raza as the Administrative with a solid commitment to social, Secretary of the Africa Federation Capacity academic and organizational growth and Building Board (CBG) and Media and development. Publications departments. She will also be assisting the Archives Sub Section. She She has been a teacher at the Husayni holds an IMIS Higher National Diploma in Madrasah Girls Section since 2013. She Computer Studies, and is well conversant has a Teaching Diploma (TSP) and has with different Graphic Design software. completed a course on Neuropsychology of Learning from the Madrasah Centre of Zaheera has 20 years of experience in the Excellence. Zaheera has also attended field of education, as well as community various Islamic courses at the Madrasah social and religious services. She has al Zahra – Dar-es-Salaam.

Federation Samachar 21

Munir Daya Re-appointed as Chairman of the AFED Editorial Media Board

In February, 2020, Munir Daya was re- to 2004 and from 2010 to 2019. His thrice during this period. He was also appointed as the Chairman of the AFED columns have been published in many overall Community Squash Champion Editorial Media Board for the term East African newspapers, and in 2016 a in the first Africa Federation Supreme 2019 – 2022, and as the Chief Editor of selection of his columns was published Council Squash tournament played in Federation Samachar to accomplish the in an anthology entitled “Weekends with Dar es Salaam wherein players from all Media and Editorial Vision of the Africa Munir Daya.” over the world participated. Federation for this term. Munir has also served the World The 2019 - 2022 Editorial Media Board Born and raised in Dar es Salaam, Munir Federation (WF) of KSI Muslim also consists of the following members: obtained his education in Dar es Salaam Communities (from 2011-2014) as Africa and pursued ACCA studies. He has been Federation’s representative on the WF’s Mahjabeen Munir Daya - Associate Editor a prominent writer and businessman Media Strategic Committee. in Dar es Salaam who has served the Fadhil Alishan - Member (Graphics) While editing Federation Samachar since community for over three decades. In Gulamabbas Datoo - Member (Graphics) the year 2016, the Africa Federation the early 1980s, Munir was the first Web presented Munir with the Abbasi Medal Manager of the Africa Federation website Nayab Moujahid - Member (Articles/ in 1998. In 2001 he launched and edited for serving the Africa Federation in Stories from Madagascar) various sectors for 27 years. He has been the Dar Samachar, the then official serving the community for 30 years. magazine of the Dar es Salaam Jamaat. Sharmeen Mehralli - Member (Articles/ In 2001, Munir served as Secretary of Dar Stories) For several decades, Munir was the es Salaam Jamaat’s Education Board Managing Director of Rentokil Initial (T) for one term during which he was on the Fatima Patel - Liaison Officer, AFED Ltd., as well as the owner of Envirotec Board of the Al Muntazir Schools in Dar Secretariat Hygiene and Pest Control Ltd., then the es Salaam. official Tanzanian franchise of Rentokil Munir and Mahjabeen will support youth Initial. He is currently a Consultant A keen sportsman, Munir Daya within AFED to handle the task of the for Initial Hygiene (T) Ltd and also the contributed to the Dar es Salaam Editorial Media Board in future. Jamaat’s sports activities for a number of owner of Envirotec Ltd. and Aqua Plaza, The AFED Secretariat plans to sponsor a real estate company. years. He played squash for the Tanzania national team for six years and was also zealous and dedicated youths who have Munir was the Chairman of Africa the Squash Captain of Union Sports Club joined the Board for specialized training Federation’s Editorial Board and Editor of Dar es Salaam for three terms, winning in the field journalism, editorial work, of Federation Samachar from 1983 the Supreme Council Squash team event teamwork and networking.



Vol 39, No. 1 Rabi Al-Thani 1442, A.H.,  December, 2020 

AFED Business Park Dar es Salaam 

Amira Apartments  Dar es Salaam New AFED Properties Zahra Residency  Madagascar on the Horizon

Federation News • Conferences: Africa Federation, World Federation, Conseil Regional Des Khojas Shia Ithna-Asheri Jamates De L’ocean Indien.  • Health: Understanding the Covid-19 Pandemic. • Opinion: Columns from Writers around the World • Qur’an Competition Az Zahra Bilal Centre Tanga • Jamaat Elections 

Federation Samachar 23 Antananarivo hosts 36th CROI Assemblée Générale Ordinaire

From left: Feride Ismael. (CROI VC, partly seen) Rizvan Abdoulmomin (CROI Sec. General), Sheikh Haniphe Akbaraly (CROI Chairman), Shabir Najafi (AFED Chairman), Anwarali Dharamsi (the then WF President), Aunali Khalfan (AFED VC – Secretariat) and Amine Nassor (AFED VC from Reunion and Chairman of Reunion Association - UAKSIR).

The Antananarivo Jamaat hosted the 36th On Friday, 7th February 2020 the program present their reports and accounts for Conseil Regional of Madagascar (CROI) was preceded with a dinner followed by an discussion and adoption by delegates from Ordinary General Assembly from 7th to official opening of the General Assembly. participating jamaats. The meeting also 8th February 2020 at the Imambargha Dignitaries from different institutions and involves consultations and discussions in Antananarivo, Madagascar. Attendees scholars (ulemas) in Madagascar were between Jamaat Presidents and the CROI at the Triennial Assembly witnessed the invited for the opening ceremony, which Executive Management. installation of Sheikh Haniphe Akbaraly commenced with recitation of verses from who was re-elected unopposed as the Holy Qur’an followed by the National This year the CROI Hon. Secretary, Rizvan Chairman of CROI for the second term, Anthem of the Republic of Madagascar. Abdoulmomin presented the Secretariat 2020 – 2023. A moving welcome speech was delivered Report for the term and the Treasurer, in Gujarati by CROI Chairman, Sheikh Anil Alimamod presented the Financial The Africa Federation (AFED) Chairman - Haniphe Akbaraly thanking the dignitaries Report of the year ending 2019 which Shabir Najafi, the Vice Chairman - Aunali for their attendance. During his address, was followed by questions from the floor. Khalfan, the Chairman of The Union des he prayed for peace, safety and tranquility The Education, Health, Welfare, Tabligh, Associations Khodjas Shia Ishnari de la for all people worldwide and for the people Construction Development, Musafirkhana Reunion (UAKSIR) and Vice Chairman of of Madagascar. Board’s Chairmen and Women’s Board AFED from Reunion - Amine Nassor, the Chairlady also presented their reports and AFED Hon. Secretary - Zuhair Jaffer and The CROI General Assembly brings answered questions from delegates. AFED Nominated Councilors, Dr. Asghar together Presidents and delegates from Moledina and Navazaly Molou attended 15 Jamaats of Madagascar together The CROI Chairman, Sheikh Haniphe the General Assembly for two days. The with invitees once every three years. Akbaraly recognized Razaly Asgharali of Past World Federation (WF) President, During this occasion, the CROI Executive Reunion for his concerted efforts to assist Anwarali Dharamsi was also present. Committee and its various Boards community members of Madagascar and

24 Federation Samachar Above from left: Following investiture of Sheikh Haniphe; Dr. Asghar Moledina, Aunali Khalfan, Amine Nassor, Rizvan Abdoulmomin, Shabir Najafi, Sheikh Haniphe Akbaraly, Anwarali Dharamsi, Feride Ismael and Hon. Mourad Abdirassoul.

Reunion to obtain French citizenship. and economic environment globally Haniphe Akbaraly in recognition for the Razaly was presented an Award for his reiterating the AFED Chairman’s dedication and support she has given devoted efforts. message on the need to promote youth to Sheikh Haniphe Akbaraly in his role development and to ensure that students as CROI Chairman for the past many On Saturday, 8th February 2020, the pursue higher education. years. This has enabled him to carry out AFED Chairman, Shabir Najafi, the various services to the community and Past President of the World Federation, The then World Federation President, to indigenous members in tabligh, social Anwarali Dharamsi and the Vice Anwarali Dharamsi emphasized the and religious sectors. The AFED Vice Chairman of the Africa Federation from importance of unity within our community Chairman, Aunali Khalfan acknowledged Reunion, Amine Nassor addressed the and the significance of building her support, and spoke of Sheikh Assembly. relationships with other communities Haniphe’s accomplishments, thanking Shabir Najafi spoke on the importance and faiths. He was recognized by CROI at him on behalf of Africa Federation for of developing youth of our community the General Assembly for his outstanding his devoted services for the past many with the assistance of AFED’s Capacity dedication and valuable contribution years. The Award was presented by the Building Group (CBG). He also spoke of leadership service to the community Madagascar Jamaat Chairlady. globally. about the important role of women AFED/CROI Meeting within the community. He encouraged Awards of Recognition jamaats to provide recreational facilities On Sunday, 9th February 2020, a meeting for women members to facilitate indoor CROI presented Awards of Recognition was held between the AFED office bearers games, a swimming pool, a multipurpose of Services to their past leaders, past and the CROI Executive Committee on hall and the like. He also thanked Raza Executive Committee Members and the various matters of common interest. A Aly Hiridjee for his support to CROI and Board Chairmen and Chairladies for their meeting was also held with the ladies for the support he provides to the KSI devoted and invaluable services to CROI committee and amongst the issues Jamaat of Antananarivo. and the community. discussed was the need to promote health by having a Fitness Centre and a multi- The Vice Chairman of AFED and For the first time, the Africa Federation purpose hall for ladies. AFED and CROI Chairman of UAKSIR, Amine Nassor awarded a Chairman’s Appreciation expressed thanks to Raza Aly Hiridjee for spoke about the changing geopolitical Award to CROI’s First Lady, Mrs. Malika supporting this project.

Federation Samachar 25 AFED Delegation Visits Mauritius

From left: Feride Ismail (CROI Vice Chairman), Mohsin Pirbhai (immediate past President of Mauritius Jamaat), Zuhair Jaffer (AFED Hon. Sec.), Shabir Najafi (AFED Chairman), Shabbir Hussein Rajani (President of Mauritius Jamaat), Aunali Khalfan (AFED Vice Chairman) and Dr. Asghar Moledina (AFED Nominated Councillor). A delegation of the Africa Federation a few kilometers away and all properties Sheriff Jiwa who was the AFED Vice (AFED) including Chairman - Shabir are in prime locations. President at that time. Najafi, Vice Chairman - Aunali Khalfan, Chairman of The Union des Associations The madrassah is operated by the Marhum Ebrahim, who passed away Khodjas Shia Ishnari de la Réunion Jamaat in the mosque complex. With suddenly on 11th January 1964 in (UAKSIR) and Vice Chairman from several classrooms, the madrassah has Zanzibar was an eminent leader with a Reunion - Amine Nassor, Hon. Secretary about fifty students with twenty five strong zeal to unite the community in - Zuhair Jaffer, the Vice Chairman of teachers with the curriculum, in French Africa including bringing the Indian Ocean Conseil Regional of Madagascar (CROI) and English, being adopted from the Islands of Madagascar and Mauritius into - Feride Ismail and AFED Nominated Madrasah Centre of Excellence (MCE) the fold of the Africa Federation. This Councillor - Dr. Asghar Moledina visited Program. The Madrassah receives good happened during his tenure in 1963 when Mauritius Jamaat in Port Louis from 4th support from UAKSIR. It requires tablet the Territorial Council was formed. His to 5th February 2020. computers for students and Dr. Asghar famous slogan was “Ek Bano, Nek Bano” . Moledina has pledged to source these Mauritius Jamaat was founded on 17th devices. The Madrassah also requested During AFED’s February, 2020 visit, June 1960 and is led by the newly elected AFED to organize a training programme. several meetings were held with the President, Shabbir Hussein Rajani. Mauritius Jamaat President, Office The Jamaat has 250 members and is a At the main entrance of the mosque, a Bearers of the Jamaat, and Madrassah vibrant community. The jamaat has its prominent plaque stands out depicting teachers. The AFED Chairman, Shabir own mosque that was built in 1963 with the first official AFED visit to Mauritius Najafi and Vice Chairman of CROI, Feride the assistance of the Africa Federation. Jamaat on 24th Zilhajj 1382 (19th May Ismail addressed community members A ladies imambargha, a madrassah and 1963) by the late Ebrahim Hussein Sheriff after evening prayers in the mosque on a musafirkhana is housed in the same Dewji (Faqhre Qaum), the then AFED Wednesday, 5th February. This was after Complex. The KSI Jamaat Kabrastan is President), and the late Mohamedali a welcome address by the President,

26 Federation Samachar Above: AFED Chairman, Shabir Najafi and the delegation met with the students from East Africa and Madagascar who are studying in Universities and Colleges in Mauritius.

Shabbir Hussein Rajani who appreciated In his address, Shabir Najafi stressed in Mauritius-based universities, and the visit by the AFED delegation and on the importance for the community to requested the Jamaat Education Board stressed on the importance of enhancing work in unison by sharing best practices to liaise with the AFED Education Board communication. He sought AFED’s across the region. Impressed with the and the Africa Federation Tabligh Board support in areas like madrassah, tabligh vision of Mauritius Jamaat, he said the (AFTAB) to enhance religious and secular and sourcing of religious scholars for Jamaat showed a lot of foresight in the education. He also called on the Jamaat holy months. On the same evening the discussions held. He thanked the Jamaat to work in collaboration with CROI. Jamaat invited community members for for their hospitality and support provided an evening gathering and dinner. to students from other jamaats studying The Vice Chairman of CROI, Feride Ismail spoke on the historical ties of Madagascar and Mauritius with cooperation between the two Islands benefitting community members there. He talked of opportunities to invest in Mauritius which has a strong economy with the Government encouraging foreign investments. A number of families from Madagascar now reside in Mauritius. The Jamaat also assists community members who come to Mauritius for medical treatment, or to seek higher education in colleges, universities, and other technical institutions.

The AFED Vice Chairman, Aunali Sitting from Left: Amine Nassor (AFED Vice Chairman from Reunion & Khalfan called on the Mauritius Jamaat Chairman of UAKSIR), Aunali Khalfan (AFED Vice Chairman – Secretariat), Feride Ismail (CROI Vice Chairman), Shabir Najafi (AFED Chairman), Shabbir to collaborate with CROI to send Hussein Rajani (Mauritius Jamaat President), Dr. Asghar Moledina (AFED participants in events organized by Nominated Councillor), Zuhair Jaffer (AFED Hon. Secretary), Sajjadhusain the Africa Federation including Sports Rajani (Treasurer of Mauritius Jamaat). Festivals, Qur’an Competition, Youth Standing from Left, Mauritius Jamaat Managing Committee Members: Ali Development Programs, Madrassah Pirbhai (Asst. Treasurer), Shohel Kassamally Esmael (Vice President), Yusuf Retreats, Supreme Council Sessions and Gulam Husein (Secretary) and Sadiq Kassamally Esmael (Asst. Secretary). Triennial Conferences.

Federation Samachar 27 Beach Holidays Airport Shuttles

Safaris

Accommodation 3 NIGHTS SELOUS 4 NIGHTS ZANZIBAR NORTH, 2 NIGHTS ZANZIBAR STONE 2 NIGHTS MIKUMI AND 3 TOWN NIGHTS SELOUS OR RUAHA

4 NIGHTS ZANZIBAR NORTH AND 2 3 NIGHTS SELOUS 4 NIGHTS NIGHTS ZANZIBAR STONE TOWN ZANZIBAR NORTH, TERMS AND CONDITIONS APPLY AFED Delegation meets newly appointed Dar es Salaam Jamaat Managing Committee

Above: The First Joint Meeting between AFED and DSM Jamaat, from right: Zulfikar Chandoo, Abdulrasul Shamji, Mohamedraza Dewji, Shabir Najafi, Aunali Khalfan, Zainul Chandoo, Zuhair Jaffer, Sajjad Moledina, Hassan Dewji and Murtaza Lalji (Arif Dhirani and Abbasali Hirji not seen in the photograph). A delegation of the Africa Federation that the Covid-19 pandemic has caused AFED’s activities so that smaller jamaats (AFED) met the newly elected Office to the global community including Africa. can be further assisted in issues like Bearers of the Dar es Salaam Jamaat He said the unprecedented pandemic has education and health. on Sunday, 4th October, 2020 in Dar-es- compelled the community to adapt to Salaam at the Jamaat Conference room. different ways of conducting some of its The Dar es Salaam Jamaat President, The Africa Federation (AFED) team affairs. Mohamedraza Dewji explained plans was led by Chairman, Shabir Najafi, on countering economic challenges. He stated that the economic hardship Vice Chairman, Aunali Khalfan, Hon. He also spoke on developing a good faced by community members is expected Secretary, Zuhair Jaffer, Hon. Treasurer, standard health facility, more housing to get worse considering the effect of the Zainul Chandoo and the Chief Operating and recreation facilities including a pandemic but will change for the better Officer, Hasnain Sherally. Multipurpose Building at the Boarding once an antidote is developed. In this House to cater for all members. He said The Dar es Salaam Jamaat team was situation, he stressed that all jamaats the new team is keen to pursue strategies led by President, Mohamedraza Dewji should re-appraise their strategies towards development and progress and with Vice President, Abdulrasul Shamji, towards income generating projects assured AFED of the Jamaat’s support in Hon. Secretary, Zulfikar Chandoo and whereby jamaat assets are redeveloped its endeavours. He also called for AFED’s Managing Committee members, Abbasali to increase income in order to finance support for the Jamaat’s activities. Hirji, Arif Dhirani, Hassan Dewji, Murtaza normal activities, support the less Lalji and Sajjad Moledina (General fortunate and to generate finance for The President thanked the World Manager in the Jamaat Secretariat). developments. Federation and Africa Federation for their The meeting covered a wide range of He congratulated the Dar es Salaam timely financial support to assist towards issues pertaining to AFED and Jamaat Jamaat for their achievements in several the Covid-19 Pandemic that included providing resources for the Ebrahim Haji activities. Plans for the future were sectors including social services and Charitable Health Centre’s special wing envisioned for the betterment of the the creating of the Covid-19 Emergency development. community for successive generations. Response Team that did a commendable job. The AFED Chairman explained the The meeting also looked into other areas important role of Jamaats under the The Dar es Salaam Jamaat membership of co-operation, especially on higher AFED pertaining to religion, education, population is the largest amongst all KSI education loan matters and economic social services, economic development, Jamaats under the Africa Federation. The upliftment. It was agreed that meetings women, and youth and to society in AFED Chairman called for the Jamaat’s between the Jamaat and AFED would be general. He also outlined the challenges active participation and support in held regularly.

Federation Samachar 29 AFED team visits Bilal Tanzania Headquarters

Seated L to R: Hafidh Mansour (Chief of Operations of BMMT), Saidi Bhaliyanka (Projects Manager), Shaukat Jaffer (BMMT Accountant), Sheikh Msabah Shaiban (member BMMT and Senior Advisor on Tabligh and Hawza), Aunali Khalfan (Vice Chair, AFED), Hussein Karim (the then CBB Chairman) and Hassan Dewji (CBB Hon. Secretary). Standing from L to R: Suleman Abdallah (BMMT Support Staff), Aman Athuman (BMMT Support Staff), Saidi Bhaliyanka (BMMT Projects Manager), Aliakber Asharia (BMMT Admin), Husseinali Shaba’an (Management Accountant AFED), Zaheer Abbas Hemani (Project Coordinator AFED, Fatima Patel (Administrative Secretary AFED) and Fatima Kermalli (BMMT Assistant Accountant).

On Wednesday, 10th June, 2020 a team Sheikh Msabah explained on Tabligh work Relief 1441 A.H. Funds and also Zakat- from the Africa Federation Federation being done and called for the revival of e-Fitrah which were distributed fairly in (AFED) led by Vice Chairman, Aunali work in some centres that are not active good time to even families residing in Khalfan with staff from the Secretariat and have not been visited for a long remote villages. He thanked the World including Sister Fatim Mohamed Patel, time. He explained on the introduction Federation for the Flood Relief assistance. Husseinali Akber Shaba’an and Zaheer of a common syllabus for all madrassahs Abbas Hemani visited the headquarters and hawzas, inspection visits of all Bilal The COO, Hafidh Mansour requested for a of the Bilal Muslim Mission of Tanzania Centres, Tabligh amongst ladies and digital video camera for use by the Publicity (BMMT) in Dar es Salaam. The main youths and the regular printing of Sauti and Media department which the Vice purpose of the visit was to familiarize with ya Bilal Magazine and other publications. Chairman said will be attended to. He also staff. He also stressed on the importance of requested for the scope of the Bilal Loan maintaining good public relations with Education Scholarship (BLESS) program The then Chairman of the Central Bilal sheikhs who are no longer with BMMT to be increased to include diploma and Board (CBB), Hussein Karim and the CBB and other Sheikhs and Imams from local higher diploma courses for students who Hon. Secretary, Hassan Dewji welcomed mosques and institutions. wish to pursue higher education. the AFED team. The CBB Chairman AFED Vice Chairman, Aunali Khalfan appreciated the visit saying that staff are Hafidh Mansour, the COO, outlined thanked the staff for their commitment better motivated when they understand administrative changes implemented and stressed on team work. He said the strategies and plans of the institution recently to enhance efficiency and that accountability and timely reporting they work for by interacting with senior improve information sharing. He said staff is necessary to encourage donors and officials. performance targets had been introduced commended BMMT for the regular and talked of microfinance projects that publishing of “Sauti Ya Bilal” magazine The AFED delegation met new staff and are in the planning stages for poverty which he said was impressive. He was Board members of BMMT including Shk. eradication amongst members. He cited given a copy of the latest issue. Msabah Shaiban, member of the Bilal the challenges being faced like the lack of Board and Senior Advisor on Tabligh appropriate communication from Centres Fatim Patel, Husseinali and Zaheer Abbas and Hawza, Hafidh Mansour, Chief of due to lack of cell phones and in some from the AFED Secretariat offered to Operations of BMMT, Saidi Bhaliyanka, cases, shortage of muballighats. assist staff whenever required. Fatim the Projects Manager and Twalha Zubeir stressed on the timely reporting of the who handles the media and public The COO expressed gratitude to AFED and projects, utilization of funds and accuracy relations. the World Federation for the Ramadhan of the reports.

30 Federation Samachar AFED Delegation Visits Zanzibar Jamaats for Ashra-E- Muharram

On 23rd August, 2020 (3rd Muharram, are managed by Juni Misid. The religious classes. AFED stressed on 1442 AH) a delegation of the delegation also visited Mehfil-e-Bibi the importance of the Madrassah for Africa Federation (AFED) led by Fatima and Mehfil-e-Ali Makkam which children of the community and the Vice Chairman, Aunali Khalfan, has been renovated by the Juni Misid Jamaats are working together to ensure accompanied by the Central Bilal Board management. this operatesagain. AFED has offered Chairman, Hussein Karim, the Housing support to provide a teacher (Muallim). Development Board Chairman, Akil The delegation also visited the Hirji, AFED Chief Operations Officer, Bewakhana in Kiponda and a waqf The meetings also discussed Hasnain Sherally and Zakir, Mulla Sadik property of Marhum Haji Mohamed bhai development of income generating Dewji visited Zanzibar to participate Allarakhia Shivji which is managed by projects to make the Jamaats self- with members of Zanzibar Jamaats in trustees from Nai Misid. This property sustainable. The welfare of community the Aza’a of Imam Hussein (a’) and to is in need of major renovation for the members in Zanzibar was discussed. meet officials of the two Jamaats. convenience of widows and guests. The preparedness of the community on the Covid-19 Pandemic challenges and The Aza-e-Sayyidul Shohadah Aba During the meeting with the Zanzibar precautions were also discussed. AFED Abdillah Hussein (a’) was held at Nai Jamaats, it was mentioned that waqf supported both Jamaats with funds in Misid, Juni Misid in the afternoon and properties of the two Jamaats are under this regard. at night, and at Mehfil-e-Abbas in the the administration of the Zanzibar morning. Some people from mainland Government Waqf Department since the It was pointed out that there are some travelled to Zanzibar for the twelve days mid-60s, and a way forward to repossess good business opportunities in Zanzibar of Ashra organized by Juni Misid Jamaat the properties was discussed. for community members to explore. The delegation from AFED visited KSI AFED meanwhile emphasized on the Hujjatul Islam Jamaat (Nai Misid) Separate meetings were held with Hujjat importance of good maintenance and and KSI Kuwwatul Islam Jamaat (Juni and Kuwwat Jamaat officials whereby governance of the Jamaat properties and Misid) mosques and imambarghas. pertinent issues were discussed, structures. Zanzibar Kuwwat Jamaat is A visit was also made to check the including the closure of the madrassah the oldest in Khoja Shia Ithna-Asheri conditions of the old school, Faize, which compels some parents to send history with the first mosque there being Mehfil-e-Abbas and Taziakhana which their children to mainland to attend established in 1881. Central Bilal Board (CBB) visits Bilal Nairobi and Nakuru In January, 2020, Hussein Karim, the tests. This clinic provides services from It is planned to convert the old building then Chairman of the Central Bilal Board 90 to 120 people per day. into a fully-fledged Maternity Clinic at the (CBB), accompanied by the CBB Board cost of $120,000 Hon. Secretary, Hassan Dewji visited a The second clinic is the AlGhadir Medical few centres of the Bilal Muslim Mission Centre in Nakuru. This centre is located The BMMK activities in Nairobi and Kenya (BMMK) in Nairobi and Nakuru. on High Street’s Free Hold area and while Nakuru have been running under the There are 10 BMMK centres in this it is one of the Nakuru’s premier health patronage of the Mulla Nanji Foundation, zone, with each center having a mosque care centres, it is still quite affordable currently under the Chairmanship of Past and madresa. Additionally, there are to the general community. The newly AFED Chairman Ramzan Nanji. Special two medical clinics, plus a Pre-hawza in expanded centre was officially opened on efforts to establish and run these centres Nakuru. Sunday 12th January 2020 by the then were initiated by the Late Alhaj Aliraza World Federation President Anwarali bhai, aka Ada, Nanji. BMMK’s two medical clinics are as Dharamsi. It is hosted in the newly built follows. The first one is the AlGhadir one storey building with a wheelchair After witnessing the opening of the new Medical Centre in Nairobi. This centre is ramp to the upper floor. It offers dental clinic, the delegation met mubaligheen in located in a generally poor and backward and optical services, an ultrasound lab, Nakuru from various parts of Central and area of Kawangware. It offers greatly and a community health department. Western Kenya. Together, they discussed subsidized services to individuals. Apart This clinic is very popular and there were ways to assist and strengthen the tabligh from a general clinic there is also a dental 150 patients seen per day, even before the work, and other humanitarian work in clinic, and a lab that provides ultrasound centre was expanded. this area.

Federation Samachar 31 AFED’s Central Bilal Board visits BMMU Kampala

AFED Chairman Shabir Najafi speaking at the CBB/BMMU meeting. On his right is BMMU Chairman Haider Ali, and on his left are Ramzan Nanji and Chairman of KSI Jamaat of Kampala, Imran Sheriff.

A delegation of the Africa Federation by the Late Shaheed Abdulqadir. (AFED) Central Bilal Board (CBB), On Saturday, the delegation went to comprising of the then CBB Chairman, Western Uganda and visited Nansana, Hussein Karim and Hon. Secretary, Mujunza and Kassanda. On Sunday, the Hassan Dewji accompanied by AFED BMM Uganda Chairman, Haider Ali and Past Chairman, Ramzan Nanji visited Mustafa Kanji joined the delegation to the Bilal Muslim Mission of Uganda visit the Kaibundaire Centre. (BMMU) from Thursday 23rd January to Sunday 26th January 2020. Haji Saheb BMM Uganda has done good work in of the World Islamic Propagation and external Tabligh. It continues to conduct Humanitarian Services (WIPAHS) and Tabligh work in other Centres where Murtaza Sikiladha also joined the trip. new mubaligheen have been appointed. Extra land may be used for some income It also continues with charity work generation activities. The newly appointed Uganda Board of distributing food and used clothes of the Bilal Muslim Mission, Uganda during the Holy month of Ramadhan. The BMM Uganda is also working (BMMU) had a meeting with the CBB towards reviving the Jinja Hawza for boys delegation, on January 23rd, 2020. The BMM Uganda plans to come up with a where it is planned to enroll students meeting was also attended by the AFED short term and 5-year long term plan from different parts of Uganda for ethnic Chairman, Shabir Najafi. for Tabligh in Uganda having identified diversity. Selected students can later be where more work has to be put in. It is sent to other Hawza. It is also planned To visit the Centers, the CBB delegation considering to acquire a piece of land to send several girls of different ethnicity was accompanied by Asim Morvi, past of between 10-50 acres to build a good for Mubaligha training. Chairman of BMMU, and BMM Uganda Center for Shia Muslims. This would Chief Missionary. They visited several comprise of a mosque and Hussainiya, In established locations, current tabligh Shia Centres in Eastern Uganda on a madrassah and a school with primary work is being done with a common Friday, including the Khoja Mosque school classes. Future expansion to syllabus, examinations and similar in Jinja now used by Bilal and Ikulwe a secondary school, or an orphanage standards. CBB will continue to assist in Islamic Ahlul Bayt Foundation, founded or a medical clinic will be looked into. sharing best practices in these locations.

32 Federation Samachar AFED Councillors attend Birmingham WF Executive Council Meeting

From L: The then World Federation (WF) Office Bearers, Muntazir Bhimji (then WF Assistant Hon. Treasurer), Mahmood Dhalla (then WF Assistant General Secretary), Shan-e-Abbas Hassam (then WF Secretary General), Anwarali Dharamsi (then WF President), Shabbar Dhalla (then WF Vice President), and MohamedKazim Bhalloo (then WF Hon. Treasurer).

Councillors from Regional Federations The AFED Chairman, Shabir Najafi,  An update regarding the Madrassah and invitees from around the world spoke of how regional federations are Centre of Excellence (MCE) was attended The Fifth Executive Council the backbone of the WF stating that presented by Shabbar Dhala, Past (ExCo) meeting of the World Federation global cooperation and coordination World Federation Vice President. (WF) held on 2nd November, 2019 in are vital for the success of the august  An update on the Census Project Birmingham, U.K. The Africa Federation organization. He paid tribute to Marhum was presented by Saeeda Jiwa, WF (AFED) was represented by, Shabir Anvarali Valimohammad Walji (Mulla Councilor. Najafi, Aunali Khalfan, Amine Nassor, Annu) of Mombasa who passed away in  Sabira Lakha spoke on the topic of Amir Merali, Mohamed Jaffer, Razaly London, U.K., on 26th October, 2019 (see the Democratization of Women’s Hiridjee, Sajjad Rashid, Alihassan Obituary in this issue of the Federation role in our Community. Kassam and Seyed Hassan Naqvi. Samachar). He said that Mulla Annu was  A presentation of the draft agenda a long-serving and dedicated volunteer for the 16th Ordinary Conference The meeting began with a Question and of the Africa Federation and the of the World Federation was made. Answer Session on the night of Friday, community as whole. Many councilors 1st November, 2019 when members spoke, and gave their condolences to Awards to individuals for their of the community were invited to seek Marhum Mulla Annu’s two sons who contribution to the community were answers to their questions addressed were present at the meeting. Marhum’s then presented. The Al Nur Award was to the World Federation and Regional younger son, Mustafa spoke of their presented to Raza Hussein Mohamedali father’s love for the community and the Federations. Moti, Zehra Premji and Sukaina Bhanji. community’s love for him. The Al Qamar Award was presented to The Fifth Executive Council Meeting Rubab Master and Mumtaz Moti, and commenced on Saturday 2nd November, At the Meeting the WF Team presented the following updates to Councillors: the Al Shams Award was presented 2019 with recitation of the Holy Quran posthumously to Marhum Afzal Hussein by a Special Needs child, 8-year-old Sheriff Velji. Jameel Mohamed Hussain. This was  The Treasury and Foundation Fund update was presented by Participants also attended the followed by a welcome address from bricklaying ceremony for the new the Host Jamaat President, Gulamraza Mohamed Kazim Bhaloo, Past World Federation Treasurer. Ghusl Khana of Birmingham Jamaat. Datoo and the Council of European  An update on Economic Upliftment A generous amount of money was Jamaats (CoEJ) President, Dr. Akbar of the Community was presented by collected for its construction. Mohammedali. by Sibtein Asaria, World Federation Aid Advisors Committee. AFED Councillors and invitees also In his Keynote Address the then  An update on Standard Operating attended the Annual General Meeting WF President, Anwarali Dharamsi Procedures (SOPs) for the Election of the Council of European Jamaats emphasized on unity and harmony and of the President of the World (CoEJ) which was held on Sunday, 3rd cautioned the community to refrain from Federation was presented by November 2019 in Birmingham, where using the social media to undermine Mujtaba Datoo, Past Chairman of they had the opportunity to interact with members, jamaats and federations. the Electoral Commission. members of Jamaats under CoEJ.

Federation Samachar 33 A Dream Come True for First Time Buyers “The RENT TO OWN scheme is an opportunity for middle-income earners to buy and own property. In today's pressing times rental cost takes about 40% of a breadwinner's income. Alhamdullilah this scheme has been successful.” Akil Hirji, AFED Housing Board Chairman. AMIRA APARTMENTS

THE BUILDING INCLUDES: APARTMENTS WITH: - Porcelain Flooring. - Air Conditioning and Fans. - LED Lights. - Heater. - Sanitary Ware. - Hardwood Kitchen Cabinets and Wardrobes. - Aluminium Windows. - Curtain Rods. - Stainless Steel Security Entrance Door.

OTHER AMENITIES INCLUDE: - Fully equipped Terrace Hall with an audio, video and PA system including two projectors. - Open Terrace space with a designated Gym Area. - Three-Floor Parking space with heavy-duty parking tiles. - Two elevators, two generators, meters with dual readings (TANESCO and for Generator use) and a transformer. - Granite- Finish Staircase. - Ground Water Tank of 50,000 ltrs. Capacity. - Special Overhead GRP Water Tank with 40,000 ltrs. Capacity. - Water Treatment Plant. - Well and DAWASCO water connection. - Administration O“ce. - Security Cameras. Amira Apartments to be completed ahead of time The Amira Apartments Project in Dar Akil Hirji, and other members of the building also has a terrace for residents es salaam, situated at Mfaume Street, Housing Board. The AFED Office of the building, and a gymnasium for Upanga is expected to be completed by Bearers commended the progress of gents and ladies. A few apartments December 2020, instead of June, 2021 - the project which was achieved despite are still available against full payment. almost six months ahead of time. the challenges posed by the Covid-19 For details contact development@ Pandemic. The said that they were africafederation.org. Africa Federation (AFED) handed impressed with the finishing and quality over the plot to the main contractor of the building. AFED Chairman, Shabir Najafi, and on 10th August 2018. The buyers, AFED Housing Board Chairman, Akil who are members of our community, Earlier, on 1st October, 2020 the Hirji invited the new KSIJ Dar-es-Salaam will have an opportunity to view their AFED Office Bearers and Housing President, Mohamedraza Dewji for a apartments once the formalities are Development Board had a meeting tour of the project on 8th October, 2020. completed. The final procedures will covering various AFED projects, AFED Mohamedraza said that the progress include inspections by the authorities, properties and future planning. The obtaining of Certificates of Occupation made is remarkable and impressive. and a formal handover process by the Housing Board briefed the Office Bearers Contractor. on the upgrades of facilities in Amira The success of the Amira Apartments Apartments such as the inclusion of a Project is a reflection of the support from On 4th October, 2020, AFED Chairman, Multipurpose Hall with a fully equipped AFED, Office Bearers, the dedicated Shabir Najafi, Vice Chairman, Aunali Public Address and Multimedia system work of the contractor, consultants and Khalfan, and Hon. Secretary, Zuhair that buyers will have access to. The hall surveyors, the involvement of the AFED Jaffer visited the site accompanied by can be used for majalis and religious Housing Board and support from Ahmed the AFED Housing Board Chairman, events and family functions. The Daya of the United Kingdom. AFED Business Park scheduled for completion in 2021 The Africa Federation (AFED) Business Park is scheduled to be completed in early 2021. This is another project aimed towards generating income to make AFED economically self-sustainable in the long term.

The AFED Chairman, Shabir Najafi visited the site on Wednesday 20th November 2019 along with AFED Vice Chairman, Aunali Khalfan, AFED Trustee, Mehboob Versi, AFED Chief Operating Officer, Hasnain Sherali and AFED Account Section Staff, Zaheerabbas Hemani.

The AFED Housing Board Chairman, Akil Hirji outlined the progress of the project and explained the schedule to complete work. He thanked the contractor and consultants for working community projects. Wintech recently a cargo lift to be used for the AFED hard even during weekends and holidays waived a one-year maintenance cost for Business Park project. The company to ensure the project is completed on an elevator placed at a housing complex was earlier awarded the contract for time. of the Africa Federation. suppling two passenger lifts and one goods lift for the project. The project He also thanked Wintech Elevators for Pratik Mehta, Director of Wintech is undertaken by Super Construction their generous terms for all of AFED’s Elevators Tanzania Limited donated Company Ltd. of Dar es Salaam.

Federation Samachar 35 Nairobi hosts 13th Leadership Development Program (LPD)

The 13th Leadership Development receiving feedback, power and politics, World Federation. Participants had Program (LPD) was held in Nairobi, capacity versus capability, the power opportunities to interact with him Kenya from 28th to 31st March, 2019 of self, active listening, respect versus and benefit from his vast knowledge of by the Africa Federation (AFED) tolerance, self and leadership and the Islamic Studies and Jurisprudence. Capacity Building Group (CBG). It was “iceberg theory”. hosted by the Shia Asna Asheri Jamaat (SAAJ) Nairobi at the Jaffery Islamic The Iceberg Theory is the concept FOLLOW US ON Centre. The Program was facilitated of understanding the world with the TELEGRAM by Shabbirhussein Khalfan (Lead realization that only a small part of the AFRICA FEDERATION Facilitator for LDP), Maria Pattinson things are visible and there is a lot more from the U.K., and supported by Shama going on underneath the surface. The Dewji, Inayat Firdousi, Tahera Shivji, Iceberg floats in the water with only 10% Zainab Sheriff, Zishan e Fatima Karim of it being visible above the water and and Neelam Jiwa. the remaining 90% invisible beneath.

The LPD is a “journey of self-discovery”. The above concepts were inculcated Some of the key concepts covered in the through innovative means of role- LPD play, group discussions and reflective learning. Program include understanding oneself and others, emotional intelligence, A notable participant was Sheikh Dr. effective communication, presenting Murtadha Alidina, the head of the Africa Federation Africa Federation africa_fed with presence of mind, giving and Islamic Education Board (IEB) of the africafederation.org [email protected] Zahra Residency Rent-To-Own Housing Project nears completion in Madagascar The Zahra Residency in Antananarivo, Rent-to-Own scheme only for purchase by Madagascar is expected to be completed first time buyers. in February, 2021. Located in a prime residential district in Ambodiovanjo, The Madagascar Housing Project Ivandry it is the community’s first “Rent- Committee overseeing the project to-Own” housing project in Madagascar includes Sheikh Haniphe Akbaraly, available to first time buyers. Feride Ismael, Goulam Lakoubay, Kassim Lakoubay and Mamod Nourmamod from The project was launched in August, 2018 CROI and AFED Housing Board members by the World Federation (WF), Africa Akil Hirji (Chairman), Ashfak Vallimamod Federation (AFED), the KSI Jamaat of and Navazaly Molou. Antananarivo and the Conseil Regional Des Khojas Shia Ithna-Asheri Jamates Amongst the regular visits made to the site De L’ocean Indien (CROI). It consists of was an official visit made after the 35th AFED Trustee and the then WF President, a five storey building with 30 apartments, Ordinary Conference of Conseil Regional Anwarali Dharamsi, AFED Vice Chairman, of which ten are 3-bedroom apartments Des Khojas Shia Ithna-Asheri Jamates De Aunali Khalfan, AFED Vice Chairman from and twenty are 2-bedroom apartments, L’ocean Indien (CROI) in March 2019 held Madagascar and CROI Chairman, Sheikh with parking space for each apartment. in Antananarivo. That visit was organised Haniphe Akbaraly, AFED Councillors from The KSI Jamaat of Antananarivo has by the Housing Project Committee to Madagascar, Navazaly Molou, Raza Aly purchased five flats which will be rented evaluate progress and included AFED Hiridjee, Sabirhoussen Goulamaly and out and 25 flats will be available on a Chairman, Chairman, Shabir Najafi, other members.

36 Federation Samachar Az Zahra Bilal Centre handed over in Tanga

On 25th June, 2020 a handover ceremony building has been named the Az-Zahra was held of the Az Zahra Bilal Centre Bilal Centre as women in our society are Hawza in the presence of the Africa inspired by Bibi Fatema Zahra (as) and Federation (AFED) Housing Board emulate her in their lives. Chairman, Akil Hirji, the Bilal Muslim Mission Tanzania (BMMT) Tanga Chapter The building stands tall and is built on a Chairman, Hasnain Hassanali and Sheikh plot that is 375 square metres. It includes Mustafa of Tanga. a library, a dining hall, a kitchen and a teachers’ office on the ground floor. At the event, after recitation of duas and There is a prayer hall on the first floor, recitation of verses of the Holy Quran, and the second floor houses classrooms, Sheikh Mustafa and Akil Hirji thanked a conference hall and the office of the AFED for their support and praised the Principal. A Girls’ Hostel is on the third contractors, Mohamedi Builders for floor and fourth floor and a hostel for The AFED Chairman, Shabir Najafi completing the project competently. married couples is on the fifth floor and commended the work of the Housing Board Construction work for this project sixth floor. On the seventh floor, there are members who worked in cooperation commenced on 18th November, 2018. four apartments, each with two bedrooms with the BMMT Tanga Chapter and with and a hall and a kitchen for teachers. On contractors and consultants to complete Following completion of this eight- the eighth floor there is a multipurpose the work as per schedule. He said that storey project, 63 girls currently housed hall. The building has a backup generator, due to the Covid-19 Pandemic, the official in rented apartments were able to get an elevator, and facilitates separate opening handover will be postponed until accommodation in the new building. The entrances for girls and teachers. further notice. Past World Federation Secretary General visits Africa Federation Projects in Dar Es Salaam On Tuesday, 20th August 2019, the then During the meeting, Aunali Khalfan Road in Dar es Salaam is one of the Secretary General of the World Federation briefed Anwarali Dharamsi and Shan- biggest commercial projects of AFED of KSI Muslim Communities (WF), Shan- e-Abbas Hassam on the ongoing capital which was first initiated in year 2012 e-Abbas Hassam made an official visit to projects in Dar es Salaam, Nairobi, to make the institution self-sufficient the Federation of KSI Jamaats of Africa Tanga and Madagascar. The Madagascar in the future. The second phase of the (AFED) Secretariat in Dar es Salaam project is a tripartite housing project in project started in February 2019 consists and held a meeting with the AFED Vice collaboration with the WF, AFED, and of showrooms on the ground floor and Chairman, Aunali Khalfan. They were the Conseil Regional Des Khojas Shia offices on the three floors. The Block has joined by the then President of the World Ithna-Asheri Jamates De L’Ocean Indien a basement parking lot. Federation, Anwarali Dharamsi. (CROI), Madagascar.

Several matters of common interest and A meeting was also held on Wednesday, The financial support and the soft loan collaboration were on the agenda. The 21st August 2019 with the AFED Housing granted to AFED by Dr. Mohamed H. A. group discussed the recent introduction Development Board Chairman, Akil Hirji Jaffer of Mombasa has given impetus to of the “Loan for Life” scheme, a joint who briefed the WF officials on various the second phase of this project which is initiative of the WF AID and AFED which projects currently in progress. A visit was now in advance stage and expected to be is being initially launched in Kenya and made to Al Asghary Residency in Dar es completed at the end of 2020. Tanzania by the newly formed AFED Salaam city centre. This building was Economic Development Board headed by completed in 2018 and is the first Rent- The Amira Apartment project is funded Sibtein Asaria. Sibtein and his team visited to-Own housing scheme project of the through Alhaj Ahmed Daya of U.K. who Mombasa, Nairobi and Dar es Salaam in Africa Federation, for first time buyers. has been an ardent supporter of AFED August, 2019 where they met with Jamaat All apartments are fully occupied. officials and had constructive discussions especially in the housing development on the Economic Development Schemes The AFED Business Park (previously schemes for our community members in for our community. Umoja Complex) along Julius Nyerere the Jamaats within AFED.

Federation Samachar 37 Saboor Family donates plot to AFED for Religious Centre in Lilongwe, Malawi

Seated from L to R: Aunali Khalfan (Vice Chairman AFED), Mohamed Reza Saboor (Donor) Hussain Ali Saboor (Donor) Shabir Najafi (AFED Chairman) and Anwarali Dharamsi (AFED Trustee.) Standing from L to R: Hussein Karim (CBB Chairman), Zuhair Jaffer (AFED Secretary) Zainul Chandoo (AFED Treasurer) Hassan Reza (part of the Donor Delegation) Zaman Donor (part of the Donor Delegation) Seyed Hassan Naqvi (AFTAB Chairman) and Akil Hirji (AFED Housing Board Chairman).

On 8th March 2020 (13th Rajab 1441 A.H) Jamaat is a new member Jamaat of AFED of the new plot was done. An assessment during the auspicious occasion of the birth since April, 2019. done of the present Centre confirmed its anniversary of Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib inadequacy for a growing Jamaat. (AS), the Saboor family of Malawi formally Presently the Jamaat has a small Centre handed over a plot located in Lilongwe, on plot No. 2/294 at Bwaila in Lilongwe. The Lilongwe construction project is Malawi to the Federation of Khoja Shia Measuring less than 180 sq. metres, the planned to start in 2021 after formalities Ithna-Asheri Jamaats of Africa (AFED). Centre is not large enough to cater for the are completed including the transfer of the needs of the community. This property Title Deed to the name of AFED as per the The handover by Hussain Ali Saboor and was acquired in October, 2017 by Malawi donor’s wishes. Jamaat with AFED and donor assistance. Mohamed Reza Saboor was done in Dar es The President of Lilongwe Jamaat, Kazim Salaam at the Zahra Tower AFED office in Over the years, the Lilongwe community Reza Divjiani has encouraged community Dar es Salaam. The ceremony was attended conducted their religious programs members to visit Malawi saying there by Hussain Ali Saboor, his son Mohamed and madressah sessions at different are some good business opportunities Reza Saboor, Shabir Najafi (Chairman of residences. The Jamaat was formed in in Lilongwe and Blantyre. He has offered AFED), Anwarali Dharamsi (Trustee of 2006 and a Centre was rented in 2007 for to host and guide visitors on business AFED) with AFED Office Bearers, some congregational prayers. Formal madressah opportunities there. Interested investors Board Chairmen and guests. classes started in 2009. The Jamaat was can contact the AFED Secretariat in Dar registered officially under the name of Jafri es Salaam for more guidance. It is planned to develop a modern Centre Muslim Association of Malawi in 2011. The The AFED Secretariat has expressed deep at the plot for religious activities for use present population is about 141 members. by the Khoja Shia Ithna-Asheri Jamaat of gratitude to the Saboor family for the Lilongwe. The plot is in a prime location Two AFED officials, Hussain Karim and Akil donation. The plot development will be an in the city of Njewa, in Lilongwe and Hirji with Engineer, Mohamed Moledina addition to the infrastructures under AFED measures about one acre. The Lilongwe visited Lilongwe in 2019 when a survey where religious activities are conducted.

38 Federation Samachar AFED Tower Project soon to be completed

On 4th October, 2020, the Office Bearers of Africa Federation (AFED), comprising of Chairman, Shabir Najafi, AFED Vice Chairman, Aunali Khalfan, and AFED Hon. Secretary, Zuhair Jaffer visited the AFED Tower project site. They were accompanied by AFED Housing Board Chairman, Akil Hirji, and AFED Housing Board Vice Chairperson, Shakera Dhanani.

AFED Tower is scheduled for completion before the end of December, 2020, and both commercial and residential units will be available for outright purchase. AFED Tower is a 12-storey building (plus basement) which is located on the corner of Jamhuri and Mwisho Street in Dar es Salaam. It is within close walking distance of Mehfil-e-Abbas (AS) and the Dar es Salaam Imambargha.

The building structure will consist of a basement, ground and mezzanine floor for commercial letting. The first and second floors will be reserved for Africa Federation’s Headquarters. The remaining seven floors will consist of three-bedroom apartments (i.e. one apartment per floor). One floor will be allocated towards a Multipurpose Hall or Training centre for AFED Boards and other eligible users.

The building’s design includes latest amenities and is equipped with air conditioners, water heaters, kitchen cabinets, and more. The building will have one elevator (with the capacity of upto 13 occupants), and a standby diesel generator. A separate transformer for electricity will also be provided. lobby for the security of the building and visit the site to assess the progress and Fresh water tanks made of good quality its occupants. quality of work. Site meetings are held fibre material will be installed on the monthly and stakeholders are updated roof terrace. An additional reservoir The contractor has employed a site about the progress of the project. underground tank has been built in the engineer for the project to monitor basement to ensure continuous flow of workmanship and quality. The AFED The AFED Tower Building is expected to fresh water. The building is designed to Housing Development Chairman and his be a glorious addition to the properties have a controlled passage and gate and team, along with consultants, regularly owned by AFED in Tanzania.

Federation Samachar 39 MillyMilly GroupGroup Dr. Faridun Suleiman Abdalla Receives Honorary Doctorate

2009 – Order of the Grand Warrior of Kenya (OGW)

Giants International Awards: 2015 Awarded the Most Outstanding Overseas Member of Giants Fraternity. 2011 Recognized by Giants International for Outstanding and Meaningful Contribution in the Field of Social Service 2000 Awarded the Overseas Group Outstanding Giant of the Year for Dedicated Services to the Less Fortunate. Dr. Faridun Suleiman Abdalla of Nairobi, Kenya receiving his honorary 1998 Awarded the Overseas Group Award degree from officials of United International Graduate College and Seminary as the Outstanding Chairman for International of U.S.A. the Year. In April, 2019, AFED Trustee, Dr. Faridun who assists the underprivileged with Giants Federation of Kenya Suleiman Abdalla (popularly known as educational, medical and other needs. He Chairman’s Awards: Dr. F.S. Abdalla) of Nairobi, Kenya was is actively involved in organizing interfaith (i) 1997-1998 Awarded the Best Group bestowed with an honorary Doctorate in symposiums, workshops and meetings. Chairman Humanities in recognition of his service The social and philanthropic works by (ii) 1997-1998 Appreciation Award to humanity by the United International Dr. F. S. Abdalla have earned him many for Services Rendered to the Less Graduate College and Seminary of prestigious awards and recognitions, such Fortunate members of the Society. USA. He has also been appointed as an as: Ambassador for World Civility by IChange The Africa Federation Chairman, Alhaj Nations of USA and recognized as a Kenya Presidential Awards: Shabir Najafi, the Office Bearers, Trustees national leader for peace. 2018 – Head of States Commendation (HSC) and members of the Constituent Jamaats 2012 - Elder of the Burning Spear (EBS) of Africa Federation, extended their Dr. F.S. Abdalla is a business executive 2011 – Moran of the Order of Burning congratulations to Dr. Faridun Abdalla and a well-known philanthropist in Kenya Spear Medal (MBS) for the honor bestowed upon him. Neuro-Psychology of Learning (NPL) Program Held in Reunion The Africa Federation Tabligh Board and Zahida Taki, NPL facilitator from in family life, in Jamaats and in the (AFTAB) in collaboration with the Reunion. Community”. World Federation Madressah Centre of Excellence (MCE) and UAKSIR – Over the years, graduates of the NPL The NPL program is a two-day course aimed (Reunion) organized and conducted two program have given positive feedback that at helping teachers better understand sessions of Neuro-Psychology of Learning the NPL initiative has greatly helped to themselves, their students, and how to Program (NPL) in Saint Denis, Reunion elevate them in their teaching approach positively inspire the next generation. and raised their own expectations to from 12th to 16th June, 2019 for 44 NPL-2 focuses on a learner-centered achieve the desired results. The training Madressah teachers. approach to education, which means exercise was delivered in English, Gujarati lessons are centered on each individual and French. The students worked in two groups, and child. A combination of formal and workshops were facilitated by Africa The Head of Reunion Madressah, Alhaj informal processes such as collaborative Federation’s Capacity Building Group Akber Jivan remarked that “The NPL learning role-modelling creates an (CBG) team led by CBG Board Chairman program is crucial not only for teachers attitude that respects differences and self- Shabbirhussein Khalfan and Shama Dewji in teaching but is also applicable in their awareness that children and young people (Hon. Secretary, CBG), of Dar-es-Salaam, personal lives - it is useful in Madressah, can benefit from.

Federation Samachar 41 Solidarity Day marked with a difference this year

Group Photo: L to R: Dr. Mazaher Jaffer (on behalf of Maryam Nanji), Sheikh Safdar Razi, Zaheerabbas Khimji (SAAJ Chairman), Br. Mohammed Jawadi Habib, Zuhair Jaffer (AFED Hon. Secretary) Br. Abbas Habib (on behalf of Mehdi Nanji) and Sheikh Ali Samoja. Due to the Covid-19 Pandemic, Solidarity Mumtaz Raffiq- Mombasa Representative over were the AFED Solidarity Day events that are generally held at and Mohdamedtaki Rashid - Nairobi Day Convenor, Alihassan Kassam, mosques and other venues to generate Representative. the AFED Nominated Councillor, funds for the less fortunate could not be Muslim Hassanali, the Director of organized as social distancing rules were This ad hoc team together with some G1 Security Company and sponsor, in place. Nevertheless, the Solidarity jamaat members in Dar es Salaam, Arusha Bashir N. Bandali along with other Day was marked differently and quite and Mwanza prepared upto 3,750 Hygiene Solidarity Day team members, successfully. Packs consisting of hand sanitizers and Kumail Haji, Mohamedraza medicated soap which were distributed to Bharwani and Mohamed Abbas The Solidarity Team Day members local communities, hospitals and traffic Karim. included Hasnain Sherally, Alihassan police (the policemen also received 300 • Another 1,000 Hygiene Packs were Kassam, Fadhil Alishan, Kumail Haji, re-usable masks. distributed to patients and staff Mohammedhussein Rashid. Alijawad at Muhimbili National Hospital, Sumar, Alijawad Esmail, Fatema Meghji, • In Dar es Salaam, on Saturday, 4th Mbagala Rangi Tatu Referral Sanjida Rashid, Shahana Nassor, Hussein April, 2020, 1,000 packs were handed Hospital and Amana Regional Dhirani- Arusha Representative, Sr. over to the Ilala District Mayor at the Referral hospital. This handover Insiya Kassam- Arusha Representative, Ilala District Commissioner’s office ceremony was attended by the AFED Mohammedraza Bharwani – Dar es The Mayor thanked the community Vice Chairman, Aunali Khalfan, as Salaam Representative, Mohammed for their contribution and well as a Dar es Salaam Jamaat Abbas Karim – Dar es Salaam appreciated the kind gesture of the Managing committee member, Representative, Sarah Somji – Dar es Africa Federation (AFED) Solidarity Shane Abbas Jessa, Prof. Karim Salaam Representative, Sakina Nagri- Day Organizing Committee for their Manji, AFED Solidarity Team Haji – Dar es Salaam Representative, thoughtfulness to fellow citizens. member, Alihassan Kassam and the Hasnain Molu - Mombasa Representative, Amongst those present at the hand- Dar es Salaam Jamaat Solidarity

42 Federation Samachar information on the Imam (a.s.) and to submit essays, videos or qasidas signifying his importance. Over 100 entries were received and were posted on social media. A raffle was held on the Wiladat of Imam Hassan (as) with three individuals being awarded prizes. • The Youth Islamic Society collaborated with the Solidarity Day Team to educate young children through creative means. This electronic program was created by YIS and organized in Ramadhan. • A campaign focused on “Spreading Sheikh Safdar Razi presenting to Dr. SAAJ Chairman Zaheerabbas Khimji Benevolence”. Individuals were Mazaher Jaffer on behalf of Maryam presenting to Abbas Habib of behalf of asked to perform a good deed and Nanji. Mehdi Nanji. nominate three others to do the same so as to spread kind acts such Day team representative, Sr. Sarah Officer, Mama Jongo thanked the as encouraging people to check on Somji. Patients who received the Shia community for their kind their neighbour, or to provide food or Hygiene Packs were given a health gesture. support to relatives. talk by Prof. Karim on how to use the • In Arusha, 1,000 Hygiene Packs • An Information Session related sanitizers effectively. were distributed. Hameed Sheriff to the Solidarity Day to know how • Another 250 family Hygiene Packs and MohamedAli Rahim along funds generated are being utilized. were handed over to the Dar es with volunteers ensured the packs • An Eid Card Competition for Salaam Jamaat Social Service reached the recipients in time. children to honor Covid-19 Front Committee for distribution to Other programs organized included: Line Workers. From 11 jamaats, families on welfare. The Solidarity • The ‘Brain of Africa’ Quiz upto 100 children ranging from Age Day organizing committee Competition held in the Holy Month 7 to 18 entered their artwork. The expressed appreciation to Bashir N. of Ramadhan attracted over 300 winners were Mahdiya Fazal of Dar Bandali and Shaneabbas Jessa for participants across Africa. The es Salaam, Soukaina Fatema Zahir their support and contributions. questions ranged from ‘Islamic Katchera of Madagascar, and Sakina • In Mwanza, the AFED Solidarity Knowledge’, ‘Sports’, ‘How well Shakir of Arusha. All entries were Day team with Mwanza Jamaat do you know AFED?’, ‘Quran’ and posted on Facebook. distributed 500 Hygiene Packs ‘Science.’ The top three participants • The #GiveEid4Covid Fund raised and 300 re-usable masks to the from each Jamaat qualified for funds to pay for medical fees, Mwanza Region Traffic Police the second round from which 10 protective equipment, and essential Force. The distribution was done qualified for the Grand Finale. supplies or also to assist businesses on the death anniversary of Imam The top three winners, all from suffering due to the pandemic. Ali (A.S.). In attendance were Nairobi Jamaat, were First Place • Talk Shows organized by the Dar the Mwanza Region Disciplinary Winner, Maryam Nanji, Second es Salaam Jamaat Solidarity Day Officer, Mama Jongo, the Mwanza Place Winner, Mohammed Jawad representatives organized Talk Regional Transport Officer (RTO), Habib, and Third Place Winner shows enlightened members on Mama Kotecha and several traffic Mehdi Nanji. The winner received a the Covid-19 Pandemic. Over 100 police sectional heads. Also present trophy and a Hisense TV sponsored viewers joined online during each were Solidarity Day team members, by Home Depot (T), Dar es Salaam. session. Fadhil Alishan, Mwanza Jamaat The second winner received an • A campaign called the ‘Plant a Tree’ Hon. Secretary, Salim Panjwani, HP laptop computer sponsored was launched and implemented. Mwanza Jamaat Resident Alim, by Simply Computers, Dar es Maulana Sheikh Musharraf Husein Salaam, and the third position While this year lesser funds were collected and Mwanza Jamaat community winner received a Samsung tablet due to the pandemic, the message of members, Sibtain Meghji, Hussein sponsored by the Africa Federation. solidarity was effectively propagated Bandali and Suhail Khimji. • The Imam Mahdi (a.s.) Guiding in innovative ways. The Solidarity Day • The Mwanza RTO, Mama Kotecha Light Campaign which encouraged team and volunteers worked with great and the Mwanza Region Disciplinary participants to seek more dedication to make this possible.

Federation Samachar 43 Facilitator Development Program held in Arusha content is powerful and the practices are transformative. The Arusha three-day course gave the facilitators guidance on how to work with shared resources with a widening group of facilitators from around the world. Participants could also take advantage of the experiences and guidance from the mentor.

During the course facilitators in training grasped the concept on the difference between teaching, training and facilitation. They understood how adults learn and develop, and the concepts of group dynamics, awareness of power, knowing the differences of content and process and CBG Facilitators Shabbirhussein Khalfan and Maria Pattinson pose with its application through a variety of process participants at the CBG Facilitator Development Program hosted in Arusha from tools. They also learnt on courteous 28th February - 1st March, 2020. facilitation conduct. Simultaneously, the The Capacity Building Group (CBG) of the seven participants from a previous FDP up-skills development facilitators benefited Africa Federation (AFED) held the second program held in Arusha in 2018. This batch from Maria Pattinson’s coaching, which part of a Facilitator Development Program joined for an up-skills session. covered the macros of facilitation. (FDP) in Arusha from 28th February to 1st March, 2020. The Program facilitated The FDP is an intensive course of The course provides a fine development by Shabbirhussein Khalfan and Maria study to meet the needs of a growing opportunity and CBG hopes to engage and Pattinson, drew 18 participants including worldwide network of facilitators. The support more facilitators in the future. CBG hosts Mentor Development Program in Arusha can be highly effective in enhancing an individual’s skills, knowledge and performance.

The workshop is based on the Egan’s Skilled Helper Model, a 3-stage framework developed by Gerald Egan, described as “a timeless model which is used a lot in counselling or coaching situations where the object is to achieve lasting change and to empower people to manage their own problems more effectively and develop unused opportunities more fully.” As much of a personal tutor’s role is to CBG Facilitators Shabbirhussein Khalfan, Mumtaz Ladak, Neelam Jiwa and help students help themselves, this is a Zainab Sheriff pose with participants at the CBG Mentor Development Program particularly useful framework. The model hosted in Arusha 14 - 16 February, 2020. has three stages:

The Capacity Building Group (CBG) The CBG’s Mentor Development • Exploration: What is going on? Mentor Development Program (MDP) Program empowers and increases • Challenging: What do I want instead? was held in Arusha, Tanzania from 14-16 alumni engagement. Alumni are tapped • How might I achieve what I want? February, 2020 with seventeen participants. as mentors within the community. The The workshops were facilitated by MDP has become an increasingly popular The participants develop meanings to Shabbirhussein Khalfan, Mumtaz Ladak, development tool with the understanding actions, events and situations to assist Neelam Jiwa, and Zainab Sheriff. that if undertaken effectively, mentoring others.

44 Federation Samachar CBG holds Leadership Session in Dar es salaam In November, 2019 the Capacity Building itself. Participants included administrative areas along with the positive dynamics Group (CBG) of the Africa Federation staff, board members, councilors and from team work. Also covered during organized a training session on 9th and members of the Dar es Salaam Jamaat the session were emotional and political 10th November, 2019 and 23rd and 24th administration. The program was intelligence, effective communication, November, 2019 in Dar es Salaam for the facilitated by Shabbirhussein Khalfan, personal development planning and the community’s institution workforce on Shama Dewji, Zishan e Fatema Karim, need to work with a pragmatic vision. leadership values and skills development. Sidika Hirji and Sajida Jaffer. This was to enable attendees to better The Chairman of the Africa Federation, collaborate within the organizations they Modules affiliated with leadership Shabir Najafi observed part of the training represent to achieve the vision of the values and skills development were and got positive first hand reviews from Africa Federation (AFED). the main focus of the program. At the participants. The Chairman of Mauritius end, participants garnered a clear Jamaat, Shabbir Hussein Rajani who This was a fine opportunity to develop understanding of themselves, their was on a visit to Dar es Salaam also leadership values and skills within AFED capabilities and need for development participated in one training session. Dar hosts CBG’s 14th Leadership Development Program The Capacity Building Group (CBG) of their comfort zone. The module material Jagani. They thanked them for helping the Africa Federation (AFED) held its focused on exploring new dimensions of them realize their potential and bolster 14th Leadership Development Program in oneself and relating to others, decision their learning process and growth. The Dar es Salaam from 6th to 9th December, making, integrity, planning and visioning. participants’ positive testimonials at the 2019. This was dedicated to Marhum The objective being to put the knowledge closing ceremony are a testament as to Asgarali Bharwani, the past President and skill-set gained into good practice for how LDP is positively impacting lives in of Dar-es-Salaam Jamaat and a great the benefit of the community and to fulfil the community. supporter of CBG Programs. one’s duty towards his Creator (SWT). The various concepts were creatively The certification ceremony was attended The program brought together 27 vibrant inculcated by means of role-play, group by Office Bearers of Africa Federation and and energetic participants who included Dar es Salaam Jamaat, including AFED discussions and reflective learning. students, homemakers, businesspersons, Chairman, Shabir Najafi. doctors, and social workers. The participants appreciated the CBG has encouraged all jamaats to carry The duration of the training was of about involvement of the Capacity Building out a Needs Assessment and to contact 40 hours spread over four days. This Facilitators, Shabbirhussein Khalfan, them at the Africa Federation Secretariat challenged mindsets and encouraged Shama Dewji, Mumtaz Ladak, Sofia Office so that a learning program can be growth by pushing individuals out of Bharwani, Sididka Hirji and Zainab facilitated. CBG’s YPD Program held in Arusha To motivate and inspire young people, interest and enthusiasm which made the the Capacity Building Group (CBG) sessions interesting and productive. of the Africa Federation (AFED) with the KSI Jamaat of Arusha organized a The Program deliberated on many weekend program in Arusha on 24th and impending situations facing the 25th August 2019 for youth development community and the youth in attendance (YDP). The program was facilitated by were encouraged to voice their thoughts Shabbirhussein Khalfan, Shama Dewji, Mumtaz Ladak and Developmental and given insight on how this can impact Facilitator, Zainab Sheriff. their futures.

The workshop was attended by 22 The youth provided a fresh perspective, community youths of both genders. optimism and enthusiasm which was Participants demonstrated a high level of encouraging.

Federation Samachar 45 Services include: With a Vision to make Mombasa and Kenya a hub to relief agencies, millers and traders. + Discharge of bulk grain vessels; + Delivery to road and rail in bulk and bags; + Clearing and Forwarding; + Warehousing for bagged cargo; + Bulk silos for long term storage; + Railage of bulk/bagged consignments; + Fleet of trucks for shunting within Mombasa Island; + Gazetted and recognized by Kenya Revenue Authority (Customs and Excise Department) as a customs area allowed to receive cargo.

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Grain Bulk Ad.indd 1 Saturday4February//2012 11:51 AM

Sayyida Murtaza Jetha is a Top ACCA Affiliate

Sayyida was the top 4th student globally While Sayyida’s working experience for Paper F6 (Taxation). She also held helped her excel in the ACCA a high ranking for five other papers, examinations, finding the right balance ranging from global position 6, 13, 19, was tough. “It was challenging to and 21 and is now considered a top ACCA juggle between work and studies. I had Affiliate in Tanzania with a 62nd position to realign my priorities by giving up worldwide. my personal free time and hobbies to It is evident that Sayyida had a flair manage my studies and do revision. for numbers from an early age. She I had to do a considerable amount of completed her O’Level Studies in Arusha independent, self-study if a course did in June 2014 at the Jaffery Academy. She not have enough students for a college scored all her subjects with A and A+ to run a class.” Sayyida Murtaza Jetha of Arusha is a grades and received an Excellence Award remarkable student that has ranked ACCA is the fastest track available to in Accountancy. She thereafter opted high consistently in her studies with become a chartered accountant. The for a Certified Accounting Technician the Association of Chartered Certified ACCA qualification is a testament to Accountants (ACCA). She has been one of course as a substitute to A Levels. After completion, she began pursuing ACCA one’s determination and willingness the top scorers in Tanzania, consistently to go through a rigorous professional attaining the highest mark by a student studies in a local college in Arusha while examination process. Sayyida said that in Tanzania on at least six occasions. She working full time for a local audit firm in her success is also due to her parents, has regularly held a high global ranking Arusha in the year 2017. She completed and has topped six examination papers, her last two papers at the Oshwal College teachers and that she is grateful to them namely F5, F6, F7, F8, F9 and P5. in Nairobi. and all those who supported her journey. AFED Sports Council Declares Sportspersons for the Year

Awards. Nominations for four candidates (three male and one female) were received, and the winners for the year 2017 – 2018 are Aliabbas Mahmood Somji of Arusha (Sportsman of the Year), and Kulsum Jabbir Manji of Arusha (Sportswoman) of the year.

Aliabbas Mahmood Somji enjoys playing golf, football, volleyball, rugby, and squash. He has participated in various tournaments. Aliabbas has followed in the footsteps of his grandfather, Amir Somji and father Mahmood Somji who are well-known sportsmen within and outside the community. Aliabbas Mahmood Somji Kulsum Jabbir Manji Sportsman of the Year 2017 - 2018 Kulsum Jabbir enjoys swimming, and she Sportswoman of the Year 2017 - 2018 plays netball, table tennis and badminton. On 26th August, 2019, the Africa She has a keen interest in team sports inter-community tournaments, including Federation Secretariat announced the such as soccer and throw ball. Kulsum has the AFED Ladies Sports Festival that Sports Council’s biennial Sportspersons participated in various community and was held in 2014 in Dar-es-Salaam.

Federation Samachar 49 Mombasa hosts the15th AFED Annual Qur’an Competition

Left to Right: Syed Hassan Naqvi (Chairman – AFTAB), Alhaj Mohamed Jaffer (Chairman – Mombasa Jamaat), Alhaj Sajjad Rashid (Trustee – AFED) and Sheikh Murtaza Alidina (then Head of IEB – World Federation and Judge for the Competition)

The Mombasa Jamaat hosted the Africa Mombasa Jamaat Chairman, Dr. Naqvi outlined the importance of the Federation (AFED) Tabligh Board Mohamed H. Jaffer, welcomed guests competition and introduced the judges. (AFTAB) 15th Annual Qur’an competition and stressed the importance of the One judge explained the methodology from 18th to 21st of July 2019 at the recitation as well as the understanding of of markings and answered participants’ Jaffery Islamic Centre (JIC) in Mombasa. the Holy Qur’an. He encouraged people questions. to recite, reflect and better understand The annual event continues to motivate the Holy Qur’an. The head of the The following is a summary of the participants, and the 2019 Annual Qur’an Organizing Committee, Hasnain Karim achievements of each Jamaat: Competition drew 275 participants from and the AFTAB Chairman, Seyed Hassan 12 Jamaats, including 24 participants Jamaat Participation: from Dubai, UAE Jamaat who participated for the first time; the other Jamaats that participated were Arusha, Bujumbura, Bukoba, Dar es Salaam, Dodoma, Kampala, Mombasa, Moshi, Mwanza, Nairobi and Tanga. The participants were accompanied by about 200 parents, teachers and guardians. The Opening ceremony was held on Thursday, 19th July, 2019 after Maghribayn prayers in the presence of dignitaries, officials, jamaat members, participants and their parents or guardians.

50 Federation Samachar Hifz 29th Juz Winners Boys GIRLS Age Categories Name Jamaat Age Categories Name Jamaat Winner Ammar AbbasRaza Anwarali Arusha Winner Fehmida Bashir Shah Arusha 1st Runner Up Hussein Taha Kazmi Bujumbura 1st Runner Up Mehdiya Shaneali Dungersi Mombasa 2nd Runner Up Sajjadali Kazim Juma Dar es Salaam 2nd Runner Up Abida Gulamabbas Habib Nairobi

HIFDH Winners Boys GIRLS Age Categories Name Jamaat Age Categories Name Jamaat 8-10 yrs 8-10 yrs Winner Zaynul Hasan Hussein Datoo Nairobi Winner Sakina Mohammed Ebrahim Nairobi 1st Runner Up Mohammed Raza Moosa Muraj DSM 1st Runner Up Fatimah Mohsin Kanji Mombasa 2nd Runner Up Ally Abbasraza Anwarali Arusha 2nd Runner Up Fatima Ali Ali DSM 2nd Runner Up Zahra Aliakber Rashid Nairobi 2nd Runner Up Nabeeha Rizwan Mohsin Dubai

10-12 yrs 10-12 yrs Winner Husseinali Noorelain Shariff DSM Winner Siddiqah Merali Nairobi 1st Runner Up MohammadHassan A Panjwani Arusha 1st Runner Up Zahra Hussein Versi DSM 2nd Runner Up Mahdi Rajani DSM 2nd Runner Up Fatema Zahra Mohamed Karim DSM Haniya Burmawala Dubai 12-15 yrs 12-15 yrs Winner Abbasali Merali Nairobi Winner Maryam Zishan Chagpar Nairobi 1st Runner Up Abbasali Hasnain Meghji DSM 1st Runner Up Ilham Kanji Dubai 2nd Runner Up Ammar Abbasraza Anwarali Arusha 2nd Runner Up Sakina Jaffer Raza DSM 2nd Runner Up Zainab Virani Dubai 15-18yrs 15-18yrs Winner Mohammed Abbas Lalji DSM Winner Farwa Zahra Murtaza Virani DSM Winner Fatema Muntazir Lalji Arusha 1st Runner Up Alireza Gulamabbas Akber DSM 1st Runner Up Tahera G Hassan DSM 2nd Runner Up Hussein Ibrahim Kazmi Bujumbura 2nd Runner Up Abida Gulamabbas Habib Nairobi 2nd Runner Up Ali Salim Dhalla Mwanza 18+ yrs 18+ yrs Winner Zaman Ali Mazahir Nairobi Winner Fatema Mukhtar DSM 1st Runner Up Mohamed Fazal Datoo Arusha 1st Runner Up Maliha Mazahir Muraj Mombasa 2nd Runner Up Jibran Mohamedraza Remtulla Arusha 2nd Runner Up Mehdiya Gulamabbas Pyarali Arusha 2nd Runner Up Abbasaley Mazaher Abbas DSM

On the left is AFED Trustee Sajjad Rashid and on right is AFTAB Chairman Syed Hassan Naqvi presenting a token of appreciation to (Centre) Mombasa Jamaat Vice Chairman Mohamedraza Rashid for hosting the 15th AFED Annual Qur’an Competition.

Federation Samachar 51 Ma’arifa Winners The closing ceremony was held at the Jaffery Islamic Centre on Sunday 21st

Jameel Zishan Chagpar July, 2019. The event was well attended by community members, madrasah teachers, students, participants and invited guests. Sabiha Khimji Mombasa Jamaat presented tokens of Malika Jaffer Mukhtar appreciation to AFED and AFTAB for their commitment to organise the event for the Open Recitation Winners past 15 years. Over the years participants have increased and standards have gone

Mohammad Ayaan Varteji higher. On behalf of Mombasa Jamaat, Sajjad Malika Ahmed Okera Rashid thanked AFED for the opportunity given to host the competition in Mombasa.

Faizaan Munsif Rashid He also appreciated the work put in by the Mombasa organising committee led by the Vice Chairman of Mombasa Zamina Hussein Dhalla Maheera Mahmood Khatau Jamaat, Mohamedraza Rashid and Convenor, Hasnain Karim for his efforts in successfully organising the program. Farhat Lalji Zohra Virani He remembered past community leaders

Aliasghar Munir Bhalloo and paid tribute to volunteers, especially Marhum Zulfikar Ali Haiderali Khimji who Hassan Habib Ukera initiated this competition about 15 years ago. Quiz Only Winners: AFTAB Chairman, Seyed Hassan Naqvi highlighted various initiatives put into

Zahra Gulamabbas Datoo this competition and acknowledged and Hannah Hirji appreciated the achievement of some brilliant participants, who made the Faiza Hassanain Jagani community and parents proud. Sheikh Dr. Zebaa Merchant Murtadha Alidina commended participants for being well versed in recitation of the Holy Qur’an and being inspired to understand and gain knowledge from it. He said that the Holy Qur’an provides a

Zainab Shabbar Karim clarification for everything in life. Sheikh Nuru expressed gratitude for being part of a very important event of seeking Allah SWT through the glorious Holy Trophies Won: Qur’an. He said one could not be a good Muslim without embracing the Holy Quran. He advised participants and individuals to learn languages such as Arabic, Farsi and Urdu. In his message, the AFED Chairman, Shabir Najafi congratulated all 275 participants from 12 jamaats, and thanked Mombasa Jamaat for hosting the event.

52 Federation Samachar The World Federation Accredited Certification for TSP hits important Milestone in Africa

on their successful completion of the training and wishes them every success in achieving the goals and in furthering the overall vision of the Africa Federation Tabligh Board. The said that, “We strongly believe that the participants will come forth to serve the community with renewed zeal and enthusiasm by keeping this learning journey on-going and reaching out to all levels of the community up to the grassroots.”

The AFED Secretariat also expressed their appreciation to Sayyid Aliraza Naqvi for his concerted efforts and providing his valuable time in conducting these sessions for the Madrassah teachers in The Teacher Skills Program (TSP) of the in the Madrasah setting. There are several AFED Jamaats, and thanked the World Madrasah Centre of Excellence (MCE) teachers in various stages of the training Federation for supporting this program. of the World Federation in collaboration program globally. with the Africa Federation Tabligh Board (AFTAB) attained yet another milestone The Africa Federation (AFED) announced in supporting teachers of the Madaris in that 77 teachers from Dar es Salaam, various cities in Africa. The Teacher Skills Arusha, Mwanza and Mombasa have Program is now an accredited qualification completed the Microteach 5 Level (MT5) with the NCFE, an awarding body in the of the TSP and have been awarded with UK. Level 2 certification from the NCFE. The TSP is a valuable program that is The training team for the TSP is led by able to equip the Madrasah teachers Sayyid Aliraza Naqvi who is also the in enhancing their skills and talents in initiator of the program. He is supported teaching. This is facilitated through a by a team of facilitators placed globally to From L: TSP Lead in Africa Shaida two-day intensive program followed by five support the teachers in their growth. Abdulrasul receives NCFE Certificates Micro-teach sessions. Various teachers handed over by Aunali Khalfan (Vice globally have been successfully trained The AFED Secretariat congratulated Chairman of AFED) and Seyed Hassan with the required skills to nurture children Shaida Abdulrasul and her entire team Naqvi (AFTAB Chairman).

Federation Samachar 53 The Toronto Baraza Group marks 10th Anniversary

The Toronto Baraza Group celebrated their 10th Anniversary on 22nd November, 2019.

The Toronto Baraza Group gathers East Africa, homes were built to include Raza Sagarwala on Cyber Security and Dr. regularly, usually once a month, to a baraza, a long cement veranda on the Shabbir Alibhai on Medical Challenges socialize, discuss issues and topics of outside where neighbours would sit and for Seniors. Br. Kassim Moledina helps general interest. The group consists discuss the day’s events and generally facilitate the smooth running of Baraza of about 25 males which include relax. The baraza also served as a forum activities by representing the Baraza at professionals, present and past Jamaat for news, socializing and learning. the Crescent Village Board. The Crescent leaders, successful businessmen, retirees Village has graciously allowed the Baraza and individuals who have participated in In the West, present day barazas are Group to use its facilities for holding community events over the past many primarily held by East African Khoja meetings. years. immigrants in England, Florida, New York, Toronto, and other places. Over the years the Baraza has invited The group usually meets on Fridays at the The Toronto Baraza group was started by ISIJ Toronto executives, foreign Khoja Toronto Crescent Village (Complex) in Shia dignitaries from NASIMCO, Africa Richmond Hill, Canada. During summer Marhum Muhammad Hussein Samji in the summer of 2000 as a gathering of a Federation and World Federation and months gatherings are often held scholars such as Sheikh Arif Abdulhussein outdoors and the events usually consist few friends in his garage at the Crescent Village (Complex). However, it was not ( Bata) from Birmingham, Hasnain Walji of meals and beverages which are typical from the United States of America and East African fares like kuku ya kupaka, until the year 2009 that the Group was formalised through the voluntary efforts Mohamed Khalfan, Mohamed Dhirani, mandazi, kitumbuwa, chai, kahawa, Marhum Asgar Bharwani, Aunali Khalfan tangawizi, etc. of Hussein (Shenny) Dungersi and with the active support of Murad Hassanali, and Editor of the Federation Samachar, East Africans have had a long history Ebrahim Suleiman, Shenny Khalfan and Munir Daya from Dar es Salaam, amongst of getting together with friends to Yusuf Sivjee. others. This tradition helps give members alleviate the routine of daily life and some perspective on the activities of the such gatherings came to be known as More recently, Nazmul Damji has joined community in various parts of the world. baraza. [Swahili: ba-ra-za noun council, the group and has helped change the veranda]. course of the Baraza group by inviting The regular attendance of the majority speakers on various topics and managing of Baraza members at all meetings is The baraza culture can be traced to these events. Some of the speakers this an indication of the positive impact on Persia, India, the Middle East and Africa. year have included Taha Jaffer on the each individual. Studies have shown Particularly in Muslim neighborhoods in subject of Artificial Intelligence, Ahmed that seniors who stay socially active and

54 Federation Samachar remain engaged do experience a variety of benefits, including: • Better cognitive function; • Maintaining good emotional health; • Improving physical health; • Boosting the immune system; • Enjoying restful sleep, and as a result, • Increased longevity.

On 22nd November 2019, the Toronto Baraza Group had a triple celebratory and historic gathering. Not only did it celebrate the tenth anniversary of its The Toronto Baraza Group members invited their spouses and several invitees formal existence but also for the very first to their 10th Anniversary event time in the Group’s history, the meeting was attended by spouses of the members philanthropic efforts in Canada and The speaker of the evening was Abdul and other invited dignitaries. overseas and to celebrate the Honorary Bashir Versi who enlightened the guests Doctor of Laws degree conferred on him on the subject of Financial Planning for At this event, members recognized Dr. Sajjad Ebrahim, the founding member by Ryerson University in Toronto. Dr. seniors. This interesting and appropriate and current President of Crescent Ebrahim’s achievements were eloquently topic was received well by all the Village Housing, to honour him for his summarized by Bashir Versi. attendees. Mohsin Khalfan wins Champion Trophy in the Big Apple Open Squash Tournament

From 6th to 8th March, 2020, Mohsin team captain when he was pursuing his Khalfan participated in the Big Apple Bachelor’s degree in Business Finance Open Squash Tournament, held in and Economics. During this time, he Brooklyn, New York. This tournament participated in numerous college varsity is a competitive three-day squash matches against several Ivy League tournament and this year, a total of schools such as Harvard, Yale, and 150 players participated and played in Princeton. different divisions. After several long and grueling matches, Mohsin won More recently, Mohsin won the Division the Champion Trophy by beating Gary B Squash Tournament during the Al McCool 11-9, 10-12, 7-11, 11-8 and 11-5 Wahda Sports Festival hosted by the in a five-game thriller which he trailed at Jaffari Community Centre in Toronto, 1-2 after the third game, only to recover Canada in July 2019. He is passionate and win the final two games. about playing squash and is also keen to train and promote new squash players Mohsin Khalfan is originally from Dar es within the community. Salaam, Tanzania and has had a keen Club of Dar es Salaam and won several interest in squash from a young age. championships for several years. Mohsin runs Skyline Travel Inc., a travel While in Dar es Salaam, he practiced business in New York. He creates time to regularly at Al Muntazir School and the Mohsin moved to the USA for his balance work, family and sports for good Dar es Salaam Gymkhana Sports Club. studies in 2002 and continued playing health. He and his wife Zahra have three He participated in several Ramadhan squash. He was selected to represent Tournaments hosted by Union Sports Rutgers University in NJ, USA as the sons, Rehan, Hadi, and Kumayl.

Federation Samachar 55 DOWN MEMORY LANE 56 Federation Samachar

Standing, back row, L to R: At the 3rd JIBA (Jaffery International Business Association) globe met to discuss potential business opportunities and International Conference and Trade Fair event held on 2nd Masum Somji (Dubai), Committee member; joint ventures. and 3rd January, 1993 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Hassanali Hiridjee (Europe); Committee member; During the above meeting, JIBA’s draft Constitution paper Anwer Dhanji (Europe); Committee member; Standing, front row, L to R: (drafted by JIBA Europe) was discussed and adopted, and Standing, front row, L to R: Hassanali Mukhi (Bombay); Committee member; elections were held. JIBA was founded in 1991 by Anverali Mustafa Dhanji (Dubai), Vice Chairman; Shabbir Mamdani (Europe); Committee member; M. Rajpar, Husein I. Haji (Shaney) and Hussein M. Alibhai Sheni Haji (Karachi), Hon. Treasurer; Munawer Dinani (Dar es Salaam); Committee member; from Karachi, and registered in the United Kingdom. The first Nazir Jessa (Europe), Vice Chairman; Hussein Alibhai (Asia), Committee member. and second JIBA International Conference and Trade Fair Anver Rajpar (Karachi), Chairman; Delegates from Dubai, Pakistan, Europe, India, Canada, events were held in London, U.K., and in Mombasa, Kenya. Nisar Virani (Karachi), Secretary; Reunion/Madagascar, Tanzania, Uganda and Singapore, and (Source: Photo and excerpts from Shia International, Spring Asghar Bharwani (Dar es Salaam), Vice Chairman; many other businessmen and professionals from across the 1993 issue.) Jaffer Kermali (Toronto), Vice Chairman. The Medical Convention drew many renowned doctors and with testing, and treatment with regard to HIV, infertility, At a Reception Dinner during the Africa Federation (AFED) menopause, cancer, etc.

academics and community members from around the world. DOWN MEMORY LANE

Federation Samachar57 Central Health Board (CHB) 2nd Medical Convention held Lectures were presented and workshops held on medical and The specialists in attendance included Dr. Zulfikar Abbas, on 12th and 13th April, 2001 at the Karimjee Hall in Dar es moral ethics, patient management, thalassemia, cardiology, Dr. Rick Bauer, Dr. Kiran Coelho, Dr. B. Corrigan, Dr. Jaffer Salaam, from L to R are: The Chief Guest, Hon. Frederick and the human immunodeficiency (HIV) retrovirus virusDharsee, Dr. Nazima Dharsee, Ms. Z. Fazel, Dr. M. Hameer, Sumaye, the then Prime Minister of the United Republic of which can cause Acquired Immunodefiency SyndromeDr. Kamoonpuri, Dr. Jay Lalmalani, Dr. Anil R. Mehta, Dr. Jamil Merali, Dr. Shaheen Merchant, Dilawer Padhani, Dr. Tanzania; Mohamed Dhirani, the then Chairman of the Africa (AIDS). Workshops were also held to discuss the management

Ramakant Pande, Dr. Sibtain Panju, Dr. Chetan Shah, Dr. Federation; Marhum Asghar Bharwani, the then President of and treatment of haematuria (including keyhole surgery), issues concerning Obstetrics and Gynaecology, discussions on Duru Shah, Dr. Mustafa Virani, Dr. Hasnain Walji, and Dr. the Dar es Salaam Jamaat, and Aunali Khalfan, the then nutrition and diet, as well as counselling for patients dealing Mohamed Taki Walji. Chairman of the Central Health Board (CHB). HEALTH

Understanding the Covid-19 Pandemic

Report by Dr. Shahnaaz Sharif, alarm by the Organisation. As of August began working with various Boards, Chairman, Central Health Board, this year WHO considers the global Jamaats and Governments to take Africa Federation with additional risk level of Covid-19 to still be very practical measures against the disease excerpts added by the Editorial high. According to official sources the following Government guidelines. Board to incorporate the WHO novel coronavirus has killed 693,000 AFED issued newsletters on measures August 2020 report. people and infected at least 18.3 million to prevent transmission and the likely people since the outbreak emerged in economic impact from the disease. In December, 2019, the World Health China last December. To date it is still Organization (WHO) was notified classified as a Public Health Emergency All governments including those in Africa of an outbreak of pneumonia due to of International Concern (PHEIC). put in measures to contain the spread an unknown cause in Wuhan City in of the disease in their countries. The China. WHO later announced that the WHO Chief, Tedros Adhanom measures included lockdowns, advising outbreak was due to a Corona Virus. The Ghebreyesus said the pandemic’s people to practice social distancing, and outbreak was declared a public health effects will be long-lasting. He said, encouraging people to wear masks. In emergency of international concern on “it is sobering to think that six months some countries, laws were enacted to 31st January 2020 and then declared a ago, when we declared a PHEIC, there enforce these measures. pandemic in March 2020. WHO named were less than 100 cases and no deaths the virus as SARS-CoV-2 and the disease outside China. Today the pandemic is a Covid-19 presents with symptoms as Covid-19. once-in-every-century health crisis, the of a respiratory infection which may effects of which will be felt for decades resemble a common cold. In some During a meeting held on 1st August to come.” patients the disease is severe with 2020 WHO warned that the pandemic features of pneumonia and respiratory is likely to be “lengthy” and warned of He warned countries to prepare their distress syndrome that may require the risk of “response fatigue” given the health systems to cope with seasonal intensive care. There are other socio-encomic pressures on countries. influenza and other diseases outbreaks complications such as multi-organ alongside the new coronavirus. failure (kidney failure, shock, heart On 30th January, 2020 WHO declared By the time WHO declared it a pandemic, injury, clotting). There are others who the Corona Virus a Public Health almost every country in the world had have no symptoms but can spread the Emergency of International Concern cases of Covid-19. In response, the disease. This has been reported in (PHEIC) which is the highest level of Africa Federation (AFED) immediately several countries especially in Kenya.

58 Federation Samachar HEALTH

People with pre-existing non-communicable diseases (NCDs) also appear to be more vulnerable to becoming severely ill with the virus. These NCDs include cardiovascular diseases like hypertension and people who have had, or are at risk of a heart attack or stroke.

According to an article published by The With a vaccine yet to be approved people American Society of Tropical Medicine, are advised to exercise extreme caution the case fatality rate in Africa has been in order to live safely. Life should Dr. Shahnaaz Kassam Sharif relatively low compared to Europe and continue but without being careless to Chairman the United States. The worldwide case abiding to guidelines presented by WHO AFED Central Health Board fatality is around 6.5%. The case fatality and other health institutions. rate in Italy was 14.1%, United States 6%, 4. Wash your hands often with soap Africa 3%, and Asia 2.9%. Risk factors and conditions that can and water or with hand sanitizers make people more vulnerable: when in offices Several hypotheses have been presented 5. Quit smoking and avoid using coping to explain this relative low case fatality Smokers are likely to be more vulnerable strategies like drugs. rate in Africa. One of the reasons is the to Covid-19 as the act of smoking means 6. Safeguard your mental health. youthful population of the people in Africa. that fingers (and possibly contaminated 7. Use a face mask when in public. cigarettes) are in contact with lips which Though the data may imply that the increases the possibility of transmission All Jamaats have acted aggressively to disease is mild in Africa, data from Kenya of virus from hand to mouth. Smokers tackle Covid-19. The health of people indicates that most of the deaths are due may also already have lung disease with non-communicable disease is now to comorbidities such as hypertension, or reduced lung capacity which would more important than before. Reducing diabetes, ischemic heart disease, kidney greatly increase risk of serious illness. the prevalence of NCD patients requires diseases and cancer. both, primary prevention to address the Smoking products such as water pipes underlying factors responsible for NCD In most studies published, the severity often involve the sharing of mouth pieces and secondary prevention to ensure early of Covid-19 relates to the following: and hoses, which could facilitate the detection and appropriate management. 1. The Male Gender. The disease transmission of Covid-19 in communal and social settings. affects more males than females The Central Health Board of the Africa and is more severe in men; Federation has been working to mitigate The WHO has said, “Conditions that 2. The disease is more severe in the effects of non-communicable diseases increases oxygen needs or reduces the patients over the age of 60 years; such as diabetes and obesity. Information 3. The disease is also more severe in ability of the body to use it properly will put patients at higher risk of is sent through newsletters to mitigate the patients who have hypertension, impact of NCD. It is even more urgent now diabetes, heart disease, chronic kidney the consequences of bilateral viral pneumonia.” A healthy lifestyle will make to modify lifestyles to avoid complications disease and respiratory conditions. of developing severe Covid-19. Severity has also been observed in all bodily functions work better, including smokers and obese people. immunity. Eating healthy diets, with plenty of fruit and vegetables, keeping Covid-19 is new and development in physically active, quitting smoking and the field of prevention and treatment People of all ages can be infected getting enough sleep are key components are being published almost every week. by the Covid-19 virus. The risk of of a healthy lifestyle. There are also a lot of myths circulated becoming severely ill with the virus in social media. Some of these myths are appears to increase if one is over 60 Tips for people living with or affected by dangerous and may endanger health and years of age. People with pre-existing NCDs: thus it is important to contact your local non-communicable diseases (NCDs) 1. Continue to take your medication health authorities about the myths. also appear to be more vulnerable to and follow medical advice. becoming severely ill with the virus. 2. Secure a one-month supply of your It is thus important to check with These NCDs include cardiovascular medication or longer if possible your health authorities or reputable diseases like hypertension and people 3. Keep a distance of at least two information sources such WHO and who have had, or are at risk of a heart meters from people who have a Centres for Disease Control and attack or stroke. cough, cold or flu. Prevention (CDC).

Federation Samachar 59 OBITUARY

Marhum Mohamedraza Mohamedhassan Khamis (1954 – 2020) Marhum Murrabbi Alhaj Mohamedraza Marhum had a long experience and Mohamedhassan Khamis passed away in knowledge of the history of the Khoja Majunga, Madagascar on Saturday, 8th Community. He was eloquent in Gujarati. August, 2020, at the age of 66 Years. When he spoke, councillors and delegates listened attentively to his articulate Marhum was the Chairman of The Institut presentations that had impact and were Islamique de Madagascar (INISMA) punctuated with humorous anecdotes. and the Head of Husseini Madrassah of Antananarivo KSI Jamaat. Marhum would go out of his way to look after guests and visitors to Madagascar. A On his death, The Africa Federation stated spokesman for the Africa Federation recalled that “…. we have lost a legendary speaker how both brothers, Mojiz-e-Reza Khamis and a towering personality whose immense and Marhum Mohamedraza Khamis were knowledge, affection and history of our great hosts to many visitors to Madagascar. community, especially of Madagascar will be missed ….” In his Condolence Message, Shabir Najafi, Chairman of Africa Federation said, “The Marhum was born on 26th June 1954 in office bearers of Africa Federation received Morondava, a town located in the west coast we should not become adversaries of each the news of the death of our beloved brother other!).” of Madagascar from where he began his and colleague, Mohamedraza Khamis with community services. In his youth he served great sadness. We were shocked with the Marhum is survived by his wife, Fatim bai as a volunteer in Morondava Jamaat. Later sudden news as he was recovering from the (daughter of Mohamed G. M. Dhirani, past he served as Chairman of the Jamaat before Covid-19 virus after contracting this while Chairman of Africa Federation) and their moving to Antananarivo, the capital of visiting Majunga.I had the pleasure and son and daughter, Minhaal and Masooma. Madagascar. Here Marhum established an opportunity to work and interact with him agricultural and export business enterprises closely for many years, I wish to quote his We pray to Allah (SWT) to grant Marhum and his businesses expanded. famous saying - “ maghferat and rest his soul in eternal peace. આપણા માં માટ ભેદ થાય – Sura-Al-Fateha is requested for him. Marhum rendered selfless services in પણ તેના લીધે માં ભેદ ના થવો જોઈએ different capacities to the community in (meaning: That for sure, we will have our Madagascar. He was actively involved in differences of opinion; but because of that trying to propagate the Madh’ab of Ahlulbayt we should not have bitter hearts – meaning (AS) amongst the indigenous population. With Marhum Roshan Jameel, Marhum Abdul Momin and Raza Aly Hiridjee, he worked in the Tabligh institution, INISMA to improve the welfare, education and health of individuals. INISMA is based in Antananarivo and has 83 Centres in Madagascar. Currently 20,000 indigenous members have accepted the Shia Ithna- Asheri faith. The establishment of the Centres, Madrassahs and Hawzas in several parts of Madagascar are contrinutions visible of Marhum’s endeavours. With the Africa Federation, Mohamedraza Khamis served as the Vice Chairman from Madagascar from 2003 to 2007, and also as a councillor. He regularly attended Supreme Council sessions and conferences. He was bestowed with the Africa Federation Above: Presentation of The Husseini Medal to Mohamedraza Khamis by Africa prestigious Husseini Medal in February Federation Vice Chairman, Aunali Khalfan during the auspicious Wiladat occasion of 2012 for his services in Tabligh. Prophet Muhammad (SAWW) on 9th February 2012 at Antananarivo Imambargha.

60 Federation Samachar OBITUARY

Marhum Anvarali Valimohammad Walji (1936 – 2019)

Marhum Anvarali Valimohammad Walji of Mombasa passed away in London, U.K. on Saturday 26th October 2019 at the age of 83 years. He was buried on the same day at the London Northwood Cemetery.

Marhum fondly known by all as Mulla Annu was an iconic figure of Mombasa Jamaat. He leaves behind fond memories in the hearts of many around the world.

Mulla Annu was born and educated in Mombasa. He was a close friend of his childhood schoolmate, Mulla Asgharali M. M. Jaffer who passed away in 2000. In October 1966 Mulla Annu worked closely with Marhum Mulla Asghar in mobilizing the youth of our community during the amalgamation of the two Jamaats that then existed in Mombasa. Coincidentally he passed away in the same month 53 years later. from past generations. Marhum also the Africa Federation meetings. submitted some archival artifacts to Marhum had a charming personality He learnt Urdu language under the the Africa Federation for the Federation and was jovial by nature. He mingled tutelage of Marhum Mohamed Mulla Samachar. freely with the young and old, rich and Jaffer (father of Alhaj Mulla Asghar) and poor. His demeanor was such that his Alhaj Mulla Abdulrasul Hassanali Khaki At young age, Marhum joined the Ithna presence would illuminate any room. whilst acquiring his religious education Asheri Young men’s Union as a volunteer He was conscious of family values at the Husayni Night School in Mombasa. and served as a managing committee and encouraged his family to attend Marhum Mulla Annu used to recite member of Mombasa Jamaat for a period weddings, funerals and visit sick people, Majalis in Urdu, Gujarati and Kutchi and of about forty years under different a practice he followed until his last days. was gifted with a unique resonating voice Presidents before and after the merger of whereby whenever he recited Ziyarat the two Jamaats. In his condolence message, AFED after Majlis, people would be deeply Chairman Shabir Najafi said, “Mulla was moved and shed tears. And whenever He attended many meetings of the Africa a great supporter of the Africa Federation he recited Kalema-e-Shahadatayn at Federation as a Councillor or Delegate and his presence at the Africa Federation funerals, attendees were deeply touched. of the Mombasa Jamaat and later on meetings and occasions with his wise as a special invitee. He was a keen counsel, wisdom and liveliness will be Mulla Anvarali had a very good memory contributor of opinions in meetings and deeply missed. A great lover of Ahlulbayt and was fond of collecting photographs, he often livened up meetings with his (a.s.), his recitation of Duas and Ziyarat articles and news items related to the humour. always inspired the audience.” history of Mombasa Jamaat. He was considered to be a repository of the history In April 2010, Mulla Annu was presented We pray to Allah (SWT) to grant Marhum of our community in Mombasa. He had a with the Chairman’s Appreciation Award maghferat and place his soul amongst gift that as soon as one mentioned his or by the newly elected Africa Federation the blessed ones who continuously her name, he would spontaneously give Chairman Alhaj Anwarali Dharamsi, for receive mercy and grace of Allah (SWT). the person his full family tree spanning his long and continued participation at - Ameen.

Footnote: in 2018, Marhum Mulla Annu was interviewed by Mehboob Lakha in Mombasa. The series of the interviews are available on You-Tube, and include vast information about the history of our community, especially of Mombasa Jamaat.

Federation Samachar 61 OBITUARY

Marhum Jameel Yusuf Kermalli (Kabana) (1969 - 2020)

Jameel Yusuf Kermalli passed away in In one season Jameel scored over 500 Orlando, Florida on 14th January, 2020 runs including six fifties and he has (18th Jamadiul Awwal, 1441 A.H.) at the been ‘Man of the Match’ in tournaments age of 51 years. a number of times and also received AFED Sportsman of the Year Trophy. He Jameel was born in Dar es Salaam, on also played for the Tanzania national 28th February, 1969 where he obtained his team in the East Africa Quadrangular primary education at Olympio Primary tournament in Malawi and Dar es School and his secondary education at Salaam. Jameel was also a fine fielder Shaaban Robert Secondary School. At in any position and like his father, the Husseini Madressa Dar es Salaam, Yusuf he was deeply religious and while he had an outstanding performance and off the field, he would spread out his later became an exceptional teacher and prayer mat and punctually offer namaz a role model for many of his students. His at the prayer time. piety, sincerity, humility and exceptional character are deeply remembered by all From Dar es Salaam, Marhum Jameel his fellow colleagues and students at the traveled to the United Kingdom in 1993 Madrassa. where he graduated from the University Zahra Foundation which published of Southampton, U.K., with a Bachelor Islamic books, E-cards, Islamic of Science (Hons.) degree in Psychology, In the sporting field, he excelled in puzzles, board games, online games, majoring in Health Psychology. cricket, like his father, the legend Yusuf and certificate courses. Kabana and Grandfather, Gulamali He got married in Dar es Salaam in 1994, Kabana of Zanzibar. In 1985, Abdulrazak He prepared a Hajj Board Game, and after his migration to New York in Fazal of Dar es Salaam penned a tribute resembling the board game ‘Monopoly’. 1995 he specialized in Naturopathy It summarizes the pilgrimage to The to Jameel, extracts of which included: and Cognitive Rehabilitation Therapy. “…Jameel Kermalli dominated the House of Allah (SWT), combining He became a Board-Certifiedconcepts of education, relaxation, and 1985-86 Tanzanian cricket season Psychotherapist and a Board-Certified miraculously after remaining in the back mystery. Biofeedback Practitioner, specializing seat for the whole of the previous season in EEG Biofeedback. In Naturopathic when he found himself promoted into Marhum Jameel moved to Orlando Medicine his areas of specialty from New York towards the end of the ‘A’ string from the ‘C’ division…” included Homeopathy, Nutritional 2004 after his mother’s demise. Later and Herbal Medicines. He was also a in Orlando, he developed a disabling “As a child he used to accompany his Board-Certified Nutritional Consultant. medical condition but he continued father to practices and matches ... Soon He had his own private practice in Long helping others with his advice in the he started attending practices and would Island, New York and later in Orlando, field of naturopathy while continuing reach the ground as early as 3.00 pm. Florida. to write Islamic books and creating Bashir Tejani and Amir Yusuf encouraged games. He was a man of great patience him to further his career. It was Bashir’s Marhum Jameel has authored three and complete trust in Allah (SWT). He apt foresight that transformed Jameel books. One is “Concentration in Prayer: was never heard complaining about into an off-spinner.” 25 Strategies to Develop and Maintain his condition. He left us an example of Concentration in Prayer.” The other what a real servant of Allah should be “Jameel came into prominence on his is a 30-Day Workbook called, “Islam, like. first trip abroad in Zimbabwe in the the Absolute Truth” which discusses 1985 AG Tarmohamed tournament a close relationship between the He is survived by his father Yusuf where he got promoted in the batting progress of science and the firmness Kermalli, wife Suraiya, son Miqdad line up and scored 30 invaluable runs. of faith in Allah (SWT). The third book and daughter Zahra Kermalli. He In the following game he scored 22 runs, he compiled was “O You Who Believe” was the younger brother of Marhum claimed 3 wickets and took 2 catches which discusses the verses of the Holy Mohamedraza Yusuf Kermalli. that won him the ‘Man of the Match’ Qur’an which begin with the words, “O’ award. The hosts offered him to stay in “You Who Believe”! May Allah grant him maghferat and Zimbabwe to be coached into a better rahmat and high status in Jannah, cricketer but he did not accept.” He also established and managed the Ameen.

62 Federation Samachar OBITUARY

Marhum Habib Gulamhussein Virjee (1929 - 2019)

From L: Marhum Habib Gulamhussein Virjee seen here in April, 2019 at a meeting of the Mombasa Seniors Group in Mombasa, with friends Masumali Meghji, Yusuf Jiwa, and Gulambabbas Khaku.

Marhum Habib Gulamhussein Virjee In his youth, Marhum was a keen religious personalities at the Jaffery passed away in Mombasa on Saturday, sportsman having played a number of Islamic Centre (JIC), previously Jaffery 1st June 2019 (26th Ramadhan 1440 sports both in Dar es Salaam as well as Sports Club. A.H.) at the age of 90 years. in Mombasa. Marhum was also known to recite marthiyas. By inspiring the formation of the seniors Marhum Habib was a quiet man but group, Marhum has left a legacy which is an inspiration globally. He will always be when he did speak, his words were gentle, The Fourth Imam (AS) has eloquently remembered for his regular participation and full of wisdom from experience. He said, “if you see any good in yourself know it is from your father as he is in this group and for arranging snacks would answer to the point, never going and speakers on a weekly basis. into excessive conversation. If you your root.” In this light, Marhum is best represented by his son Riyaz who plays ever had the pleasure of seeing him in The group had looked forward to his an active role in the community and by his office, at the mosque or at home, recovery to celebrate his 90th birthday his grandchildren who have moved on you would be moved by his pleasant last year but the Almighty wished demeanor, his unassuming countenance to assume important roles in furthering otherwise. His death is a great loss to religion after having settled far from and his soft voice. his family and the community at large. home in Australia. His colleagues at Jaffery Walking Club, Born on 29th June 1929 and brought up where he was the Chairman for many Marhum was courteous and received in his birth place, Mombasa, Marhum years, will miss him for his sagacious with respect and heard all, young and old guidance. had strong ties with Dar es Salaam and never judged anyone. To stay fit, he through marriage. The city at one point regularly walked at the Mombasa Jaffery We pray to Allah (SWT) to grant Marhum became his second home. He also had Sports Club and through his regimen, maghferat and place his soul amongst a short stint in Uganda and spent his encouraged others who had retired or the blessed ones who continuously final years in Mombasa. Marhum was were advancing in age to emulate him. receive mercy and grace of Allah (SWT) always concerned about the community This ultimately led to the formation of - Ameen. wellbeing and its affairs but he never the senior citizens group of Mombasa. sought position, preferring to guide from This group now arranges outings, social (Obituary by: Mohamedali Hassanali the wings and give advice tacitly. events and hosts various dignitaries and Merali of Mombasa).

Federation Samachar 63 OBITUARY

Marhum Sajjad Mohammed Haji (1957–2019)

Marhum Sajjad Mohammed Haji passed away suddenly in Dar es Salaam at the age of 62 years on Sunday, 15th September 2019 (15th Muharram 1441 AH).

Sajjad served as a devoted volunteer from a very young age when he joined the Ithna-Asheri Union Volunteer Corps (IUVC) in Dar es Salaam. He continued serving the community until his last day as he bid farewell to this world.

Africa Federation Vice Chairman, Aunali Khalfan who was one of the pioneers of IUVC in the early 1970s, and a former Captain and Chairman of IUVC and Hon. Secretary of Ithna-Asheri Union describes him in the following words, “Marhum Sajjad Mohammed Haji was a very humble person who never said ‘no’ to a good task requested from him. Popularly known as Sajjad Dheg, he was a junior volunteer of IUVC since late 1970s and grew up through his hard work to become a senior volunteer in later years. Sajjad bhai’s deep commitment, devotion and dedication were exemplary. His selfless services knew no bounds. He received The Best Volunteer of the Year award a number of times for his high level of discipline and selfless services.” such as putting up black cloth, street shall be remembered for his humbleness Marhum Sajjad’s long illustrious services lights, and preparations for the stage and selflessness. His absence will create to Ithna-Asheri Union Volunteer Corps for Ashura Juloos were done properly. a big vacuum amongst the volunteers in (IUVC) and Dar es Salaam Jamaat were He also volunteered in the organization Dar es Salaam which shall not be easy extraordinary. He served quietly and with of Hussain Day Programs, Bagamoyo to fill. great dedication and with deep passion Majlis, Ashura Juloos, Miladun-Nabii in the various sectors of IUVC and Dar (SAWW), Mahe Mubarak of Ramadhan Marhum leaves behind a widow, one es Salaam Jamaat. Sajjad bhai had great Iftar (serving tea and ujee–raab) and daughter and two sons. love for Azaah-e-Imam Hussain (AS), serving of Nyaz and Sabil in the Dar and would work around the clock to es Salaam Imambargha and at private prepare for Ayyam-e-Muharram, several functions where he was invited. We pray to Allah (SWT) to grant Marhum days before the moon was sighted. maghferat and place his soul amongst His devotion and dedication to serve the blessed ones who continuously Many times he would sleep in the selflessly was unique. The community receive mercy and grace of Allah (SWT) Imambargha to make sure that work has lost one of its best volunteers who - Ameen.

64 Federation Samachar OBITUARY

Marhum Asgarali Nazarali Bharwani (1935–2019)

Marhum Murrabbi Asgarali Nazarali of our community schools in Bharwani passed away in Dar-es- Dar-es-Salaam. He was also the Salaam on Monday, 11th November 2019 Chairman of the Dar-es-Salaam at the age of 84 years. Jamaat Construction Committee which oversaw the construction of Marhum Asgar bhai was born in Hoima, the Juma Haji Residency, Amersi Uganda on 11th January 1935. He was Mawji Residency, and the KSMIC a legendary and visionary leader and Sabodo Car Park. He built and a dedicated member of Dar es Salaam donated a mosque at Udowe to Jamaat. He is survived by his wife Africa Federation for Bilal Muslim Gulbanu bai and three sons Mehboob, Mission on behalf of his family for Munir and Riyaz and their families. utilization by the community.

Marhum was actively involved with He was the coordinator of the Africa the activities of Kampala Jamaat. Federation Zulfikar Ali Khimji Following the Asian Exodus in Uganda, Memorial Fund (ZAKMEF) Team Asgar bhai migrated to the UK and Tanzania Chapter established later, Canada. He was among several in 2005 and played a huge role members who helped set up the KSI in raising funds for the Higher Jamaat in Toronto. Education Loan Program (HELP) running successfully to date. He He moved to Tanzania in 1972 and was also a Nominated Councillor established his company, Tanzania of the Africa Federation for the Printing Services Ltd. in 1976. The term 2007–2010. company started as a printing press with three small machines employing twenty Marhum Asgar bhai was bestowed people. Over the years this company the prestigious Husseini Medal by grew into a conglomerate group of the Africa Federation (AFED) at companies called the Bharwani Group the 23rd Triennial Conference held which includes companies such as in Arusha in April 2007 by then Computer Centre, Red Dot and Berger AFED Chairman, Ramzan Nanji. Paints, to mention a few. This was in recognition of his numerous philanthropic activities during his tenure as the President of Dar- In December 1994, he was elected as and for his leadership which saw es-Salaam Jamaat and later. These are President of Dar-es-Salaam Jamaat, a momentous growth in the community. a testament of his wisdom and foresight for the community. He was always at the position in which he served for three forefront in any contribution towards consecutive terms of two years from The World Federation (WF) presented a the KSI Community in Africa and 1994–2000. During this period, the Dar- lifetime achievement award to Marhum outside. He was a very good supporter es-Salaam Jamaat saw tremendous Asgarbhai during the WF 14th Ordinary of Africa Federation, a mentor and a progress and acquired several Conference on Saturday, 17th May brave personality who always stood firm properties. 2014. on matters of principles and Shariah.”

The community has lost a passionate In his condolence message, AFED We pray to Allah (SWT) to grant leader who had a vision towards its Chairman Shabir Najafi said, “Marhum Marhum maghferat and place his upliftment. The landmark achievement Asgar bhai had a vision towards the soul amongst the blessed ones who by Marhum was the purchase of various upliftment of our community with continuously receive mercy and grace properties which today house some various projects undertaken by him of Allah (SWT). - Ameen.

Federation Samachar 65 OBITUARY

Marhum Munawer Habib Nasser Rattansey (1950 – 2020)

Marhum Munawer Habib Nasser It was during his Vice Presidentship from Rattansey passed away in London, U.K. 2009 to 2014 at The World Federation on Sunday 7th June 2020. He was 70 that his skill as a prolific writer who years old. articulately and courageously tackled Islamophobia became apparent. Fondly known as “Muna”, Marhum Marhum’s rapport and cooperation Munawer was a passionate volunteer with his team and colleagues was full since his younger days, having served and of sincerity and goodness. His sense of helped in various capacities throughout humour, his focus on the agendas at hand his life. After emigrating to Canada and his concern and love for the less from Tanzania, he settled in London, fortunate also stood out with distinction. United Kingdom. He was a flourishing businessman who happily served the He was the first Chair of the Media Khoja Shia Ithna-Asheri community and Strategy Committee of The World the wider Muslim community in different Federation when it was set up in 2012. capacities. He led a delegation of The World helped individuals who needed financial Federation to the Human Rights Council support to pursue higher education. After being appointed as the Secretary in Geneva in March 2014 where the General of Hyderi Islamic Centre, issue of the plight of Shias in Pakistan He is survived by his wife Zeenat bai and London, Marhum served two terms as was spoken about. He urged the Human son Mohamed and daughter-in-law Anisa the President of The Council of European Rights Council, its member and observer bai. The Africa Federation with the World Jamaats (CoEJ) from 2005 to 2009, and states to support the establishment of an Federation and The Council of European also served as the Vice President of the international Commission of Inquiry to Jamaats conveyed their heartfelt investigate the human rights violations, World Federation of KSIMC from 2009 to condolences to his family. His loss is not 2014. abuses, war crimes and other violations of only to the members of his family but to international law committed in Pakistan. the whole community. Marhum was soft spoken and yet He also visited the Bosnia office of the maintained a firm stand on many World Federation and saw first-hand how Marhum worked jointly with matters concerning our community and well it propagated the message of Allah representatives from the Africa humanity at large with enlightening and (SWT) in some emerging states following Federation when he was Chair of the progressive thoughts. During his tenure the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991. Media Strategy Committee. Africa with CoEJ he had the Constitution Federation (AFED) Chairman, Shabir overhauled and he established a full In the wider U.K. community, Marhum Najafi wrote to Marhum’s family and Secretariat Office near the Hyderi Islamic also served as a member of the Central stated that Munawar bhai was a brilliant, Centre to serve the growing requirements Working Committee of The Muslim of CoEJ. It was under his leadership that Council of Britain and was elected to humble and sincere person who served CoEJ became a Regional Member of The its National Council for the term 2014- the community with deep devotion. He World Federation of KSIMC on 1 August 2016. He spent a significant amount of said that Marhum made “a significant 2007. The membership had then been in his time striving for unity in various impact of his services in several sectors abeyance for over a decade, prior to that. Muslim faith groups and organisations of European Jamaats, especially in and explored ways in which they could all Media, Interfaith, and Public Relations At CoEJ, Marhum established a number work together for the common good of all due to his having established strong links of programmes and projects that Muslims globally. He dedicated much of with different organizations and faith run to this day and he also initiated his World Federation term trying to unite groups in the U.K.” the devolution of projects specific to all Shia organisations in the UK to work Europe from The World Federation. His in a collaborative manner. We pray to Allah (SWT) to grant Marhum services to CoEJ were significant thereby maghferat and place his soul amongst the facilitating the organization to flourish He was blessed with wealth and spent blessed ones in the vicinity of Chaharada under successful leaders after him. He it quietly and discreetly helping out Masumeen (AS) and who continuously continued to be an ardent supporter of organisations (both internally and receive mercy and grace of Allah (SWT) - CoEJ activities at all times. externally) in their time of need, and he Sura-Al-Fateha is requested for him.

66 Federation Samachar OBITUARY

Marhum Ashakhusein Mohamedali Rashid (1949 – 2020)

Ashakhusein Mohamedali Rashid Marhum played a vital role in organizing (popularly known as Ashik Rashid) passed the rescue mission and resettlement of away in Birmingham, U.K. on Wednesday the Somalia brethren who were brought to 14th October 2020 (26th Safar 1442 A.H.). Mombasa from Mogadishu in 1991. From 1992-2001 he served the Africa Federation Marhum was well known throughout the as the first Chairman of the Settlement Khoja community for his philanthropic and Welfare Board (SETWEL) Board which services services. He was a successful was established to handle the resettlement entrepreneur having started business with of evacuees from Somalia. Marhum was his brother, Sajjad Rashid in Mombasa. bestowed the prestigious Husseini Medal by This was a business that flourished over the the then Africa Federation Chairman Habib years in size and scope. Mulji for his dedicated and selfless services towards the Somalia Rescue Mission. Marhum’s involvement in the community commenced in 1976 when he served Marhum was also an Executive Councillor in various capacities in the Mombasa of the Africa Federation from 1976-2001 Jamaat Managing Committee until 1986. and an Executive of the World Federation words of encouragement and plans for the He then migrated to Nairobi and in 1987 from 1980-2010. Upon his migration to the upliftment of the community with the vast was elected the Vice Chairman of the Shia U.K in 2001, he became an active member experience he possessed through serving Asna Asheri Jamaat of Nairob (SAAJ) of Birmingham Jamaat and CoEJ, and the community at different levels. following which he became the Chairman served as the Vice-President of Birmingham of SAAJ. He held this position until 1992 Jamaat. He also served as the Chairman “Marhum’s departure from this world is providing generous support to the Jamaat. of the Education Board of CoEJ from sand and heart-breaking and leaves behind He was instrumental in acquiring the land 2004-2009 and was the Head of Seniors for a huge vacuum in the family and in the in Lavington for the Jamaat which today Birmingham Jamaat from 2012 until 2015. houses the Lavington Complex in Nairobi From 2016 to the time of his demise he was society, which he served so passionately. comprising of the Imambargha, Mosque, the Head of the Seniors Network Desk at On behalf of my colleagues and myself School, Musafirkhana and the Club. CoEJ. we convey our heartfelt condolences to Marhum’s wife, children, brother and all the During his tenure as Chairman of Nairobi In his condolence message, the Chairman of family members for this loss.” Jaffery Sports club from 1986 – 1989, Africa Federation, Shabir Najafi said, “The Marhum managed to uplift the Club into office bearers of Africa Federation received Marhum is survived by his wife, Banu bai, First Division Cricket and the Club even the news of the death of Ashikhussein bhai daughters Zainab, Sukaina, Fatema and son became champions of the Kenya Cricket Rashid with great sadness. Marhum was Mohammedabbas. Association Tournament. He was then a man of vibrant personality and would also the Treasurer of the Kenya Cricket speak whole-heartedly and passionately Sura Al-Fateha is requested for Marhum Association. in any gathering he attended. He had Ashakhusein Mohamedali Rashid.

Marhum Ashakhussein Mohamedali Rashid (standing 7th from right) at a dinner hosted by Dr. Mohamed Jaffer (Mombasa President) at Dr. Jaffer’s residence following the 5th World Federation Executive Council Meeting in May, 2016.

Federation Samachar 67 OBITUARY

Marhum Abdulrasul Mohamedhussein Rajabali Bhalloo (Uncle Dachoo): 1937 – 2020

Marhum Abdulrasul Mohamedhussein The passing away of Abdulrasul Bhalloo Rajabali Bhalloo, fondly known as Uncle is a big loss to the community and to his Dachoo passed away following a tragic family. His rendition of Farsi, Urdu and accident in Dar es Salaam. He was struck Kutchi Nauhas that he had mastered and down in the evening of Wednesday, 3rd recited for many years during the months June 2020 by a Rapid Transit bus, which of Muharram and Safar will be missed. He is part of a fairly new transport system travelled to several Jamaats in Tanzania introduced in May 2016 in Dar es Salaam. and other places to recite Nauhas, Marhum was buried the next day. Since Mat’am and Marsias during the Ashara-e- his death occurred during the Covid-19 Muharram and the month of Safar. He was pandemic restrictions, many people who blessed with having made many Ziyarat wished to participate in his funeral were trips to Iraq, Syria and Iran. sad that they were unable to do so. His Marhum Abdulrasul bhai is survived by Ziyarat Majlis was conducted online with his wife, Sherbanu bai, son Hozaiph bhai a good attendance. and grandson, Ejaz. The son and grandson anyone he came across. He was amongst Marhum was born in Zanzibar on 29th both have followed in the footsteps of their the Azadars of Imam Hussain (AS) and a December 1937 and lived his early life father and grandfather respectively in the well-known reciter of Nauhas, Marsia and in Zanzibar. After the 1964 Zanzibar recitation of Marsia, Nauha and Ma’atam. Matam of Sa’f. His passing away will leave Revolution he moved to mainland, Dar es Marhum’s grandson Ejaz Bhalloo is also a a big void which will not be easy to fill. Salaam. motivational and public speaker, especially for youth. He has also authored three books, “We pray to Allah (S.W.T.) by His Grace Marhum was a Zakir-e-Imam Hussain the latest one is: “Oh World Let Us Unite.” and Mercy to grant Marhum maghferat (A.S.) and a respected Nauha, Sa’f and rest his soul amongst the infallibles - Ma’atam and Marsia reciter from a young Shabir Najafi, Chairman of the Africa Chaharda Masumeen (A.S.) and grant his age. He enjoyed cricket and played for Federation in his condolence message to wife his son, his daughter in-law and his Ithna-Asheries Club in Zanzibar and his family, expressed his sadness and paid grandson solace and strength to sustain Union Sports Club in Dar es Salaam. tribute to Marhum. He said, “Marhum was this great loss.” He trained many young cricketers and a charming, joyful and kind hearted person encouraged them to play cricket. who would always be the first to greet Sura-Al-Fateha is requested for him. Marhum Sheikh Abdallah Seif Linganaweka 1939 - 2020 Sheikh Abdallah Seif Linganaweka passed Sheikh Abdallah Seif, and his two colleagues away in Dar es Salaam on Friday, September travelled to Basra by ship for studies in the 11th, 2020 (22nd Muharram, 1442 A.H.). He Hawza of late Ayatullah Sayyid Muhsin al- was buried in Lindi, his home town on the Tabatabaei al-Hakim in Najaf, Iraq. following day, Saturday, 12th September 2020 (23rd Muharram 1442 A.H.) Marhum Sheikh Abdallah Seif Linganaweka then proceeded to study in Lebanon and Sheikh was born in 1939 in Mnan’gole Village in Qum where he studied for seven years. in Lindi’s Dimba Region. He was a learned, In all, he received eleven years of religious humble and pleasant individual and he education. Marhum returned to Tanzania in served the Bilal Muslim Mission of Tanzania 1979 and continued serving the Bilal Muslim (BMMT) with great dedication. He was Mission of Tanzania. He was bestowed the Condolence messages were also sent to deeply committed in his quest for decades, title of Sheikh upon his graduation in higher Marhum’s family by the Bilal Muslim to propagate the Shia Ithna-Asheri faith. religious studies by Grand Ayatullah Sayyid Mission of Tanzania. Muhsin al-Hakim. Marhum’s contribution to the Bilal Muslim Mission of Tanzania was noteworthy. He The Secretariat of the Africa Federation said We pray to Allah (SWT) to grant Marhum served BMMT between 1970 – 1980 when that, “the passing away of Sheikh Abdallah maghferat and place his soul amongst the Allamah Sayyid Saeed Akhter Rizvi Saheb Seif is an irreplaceable loss not only to his blessed ones who continuously receive was the Chief Missionary, and was under his family members, students and colleagues mercy and grace of Allah (SWT) - Ameen. tutorship for many years. In 1968, Marhum but to the entire Shia community in Africa.” Sura-Al-Fateha is requested for Marhum.

68 Federation Samachar OBITUARY

Marhum Mustafa Gulamhussein Rajabali Jaffer (1932-2020)

Murrabbi Mustafa G. R. Jaffer passed travelled with him to many parts of the away in New York on 24th June 2020 at United Kingdom, Canada, Africa, India, the age of 88 years. He was buried on and Pakistan for social, religious and 25thJune 2020 in Allentown, PA, USA. welfare services of our communities.

Marhum was born in Zanzibar in Marhum Mustafa headed the Jaffer January 1932. He started his career Family Foundation, a family charitable in 1951 in Zanzibar by working for the organization established by his father Zanzibar Government Treasury office. Marhum Gulamhussein Rajabali Jaffer. After the Zanzibar Revolution in 1964 He was also a Trustee of the Muslim he joined the Ministry of State and was Foundation in the USA. in charge of state functions at the State House in Zanzibar hosting government Marhum Mustafa was a recipient of and religious dignitaries. Marhum many awards, some of which are listed moved to Dar-es-Salaam in 1973 below: and worked with the Zambia Copper Industry briefly before migrating to USA • Lifetime Community Services in the same year. Award for Building a Peaceful Community awarded by the His community services began from Muslims for Peace.org in 2014. who was always in the forefront in the a young age in Zanzibar where he • The Khawabe Khidmat (Star Azadari of Seyyedush Shohada Aba served in various sub-committees of of Service) Award from the Abdillahil Hussein (a.s.), the Martyrs of the Jamaat with great zeal. He played Mulla Asghar Memorial Library Kerbala and members of the household an important role in assisting Khoja and Resource Centre for his of the Holy Prophet (s.a.ww.). Even families to migrate from Zanzibar to contribution in establishing during his advanced age, braving the Dar-es-Salaam between 1964 and 1965. centres that benefit thecold weather of New York and Iran, his community. regular presence in the Mosques and He also served as a Managing Imambarghas was noted. Committee Member of KSI Jamaat of Marhum Mustafa headed the Jaffer Dar es Salaam during the tenure of Family Foundation, a family charitable Marhum played a pivotal role in late President, Alhaj Rajabali Amarsi organization and continued the several religious organizations and Alibhai. He was also Mukhi of the tradition left behind by his father their developments through generous Jamaat. After migrating to the USA, Marhum Gulamhussein Rajabali Jaffer contributions from his family and the he served as the President of New York towards charity and services to the Jaffer Family Foundation of USA, I Jamaat (SIJNY) for more than ten years Community. He was also a Trustee of am confident that his children will and was at the forefront to raise funds the Muslim Foundation in the USA. follow the footsteps of their father in for building the Husseini Madressa continuing his legacy in these noble (Center) in Woodside, Queens, New Marhum Mustafa Jaffer was a gestures. We pray to Allah (SWT) by York. He was kind-hearted and played philanthropist who always cherished His infinite grace and mercy to reward a pivotal role in the settlement of our the wellbeing of the community and its him amply for all his good deeds and members who migrated to the USA development. services he has rendered during his and in the founding of Shia Centres in lifetime. various places in North America. In his message of condolence, the Africa Federation Chairman, Shabir Najafi May Allah (s.w.t.) grant him maghferat On a global level, Marhum served for said “The passing away of Murrabbi many years as an Executive Councillor Alhaj Mustafa Gulamhussein Rajabali and place him in the proximity of for NASIMCO and the World Federation Jaffer is a big loss not only to his family Ahlulbayt (a.s.), Ameen. Please let us of KSIMC. He worked very closely with but to the entire Community. He was a remember Marhum by reciting Sura-e- Marhum Mulla Asghar M. M. Jaffer and kind hearted and a passionate person Fateha.

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Marhum Gulamabbas Ebrahim Sheriff (1956-2020)

Marhum Gulamabbas Ebrahim Sheriff by organizing activities, many of which passed away at the age of 63 years in Arusha imparted Islamic knowledge. Activities on 1st May, 2020. He was born in Arusha on included hiking, camping, cycling and 15th October, 1956. swimming. These enhanced learning lifelong skills in youth. Marhum was eight years old when he lost his father Marhum Ebrahim Husein Sheriff Br. Gulamabbas was an active committee Dewji who died while holding the office of member of Arusha jamaat for some years. the Chairman of the African Federation. He attended meetings and provided wisdom Asan adult, Marhum Gulamabbas served to help with the amendment of the Arusha the community in many ways carrying on Jamaat constitution. the legacy of his father and family until his last breath. He was also one of the founder members of the Shia Ithnasheri Charitable dispensary Marhum Gulamabbas received his primary in Arusha. In 1986 he collaborated with education at Jacaranda Primary School Dr. Mohammed Alwani to establish the in Arusha. He pursued his secondary dispensary which continues to serve the education in Karachi, Pakistan in 1971 at community and local patients till today. the St. Paul’s High school where he was an avid member of the Boy Scouts. One of his interests included the annual Karbala project in the holy month of snacks to orphans and sick children at He began his professional carrier in 1974, at Muharram. He would mobilize youth of Mt. Meru hospital in Arusha. an early age of 18 years old when he joined the community to explain the events of the Sheriff Dewji & Sons Ltd., a family business. tragedy of Karbala to the local public. This Marhum Gulamabbas volunteered as He was first involved in their small-scale was done using posters, prototypes and a marriage counselor and would assist industries, where he worked with local with the help of alims who lectured and members wanting to get married to find prisoners to make paper boards from answered questions. an appropriate spouse. recycled waste paper at Magereza Prison in A lover of sports, Marhum Gulamabbas Arusha. Later he managed the processing of For the Juloos on the Day of Ashura, Marhum Gulamabbas would facilitate wheelchairs played squash and cricket. In cricket, he local farm produce such as beans, coffee, played for Kilimeru cricket team for a rice and maize. His latest involvement for older members of community and would facilitate blood donations to local hospitals number of years. For Africa Federation’s at the factory was to process rice, pack annual award of Sportsman of the Year, he them in plastic bags and sell them to local and take care of visiting guests from Moshi jamaat. would approach deserving candidates to supermarkets and tourist hotels. assist them to apply for the nomination. As Marhum was a kind, humble and gentle For some years he was an active teacher in a result, Arusha Jamaat has had the honour person. He had a passion to feed rice the Arusha madressa. Here he mobilized of having a number of “Sportsman of the or wheat to birds and he supplied these students to give talks using appropriate Year” awards. video clips. He also took keen interest in commodities to many towns where bird Marhum also assisted with providing feeding took place. ensuring that damaged copies of the Holy Qur’an and other religious books of mosque the Arusha jamaat musafarkhana with Like his late father, he was very sociable. In were re-bounded for use. necessary supplies. One of his interests 1974, he joined the Golden Crescent Group was to take guests for sightseeing around in Arusha with the intention of introducing Marhum had a soft spot for the elderly the beautiful surroundings of Arusha. Many the youth of the community to activities members of the community. He was visitors remember such tours that also such as public speaking, mountain climbing one of the founder members of the highlighted community achievements. and horse riding. In the process he climbed Senior Citizen group of Arusha. With his committee, they organized activities Marhum Gulamabbas was a selfless Mt. Meru, Mt. Kilimanjaro, and later Mt. social worker, mentor, family member Kenya with the late Africa Federation like tree planting and facilitated iftaar and educational outings for the older and friend who put his community ahead Chairman, Zulfiqar Khimji of Nairobi. of his interests. He made most of every Whenever a group showed interest to climb members of the community with good backing from youths. He was also opportunity he got to serve. He leaves the mountain, he would provide them with behind his son Dr. Faheem and daughter Sr. necessary guidance and equipment. active in Ramadhan food distribution in neighbouring villages. Just few days Fasiha and his two grandchildren. We pray He founded the Al Muntazir Scouts troop before his demise he had raised concern to Allah (S.W.T.) by His Grace and Mercy to in Arusha that later transitioned to Jaffery about his ability to participate at the food grant Marhum maghferat and rest his soul High School, Arusha. As a Scoutmaster distribution event. Unknown to many he in eternal peace. Ameen. Sura-e-Fateha is he created many memories for the youth had regularly distributed fruits, milk and requested.

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Marhum Allama Talib Jauhari (1939 – 2020)

Allama Talib Jauhari was born in 1938 and available online) were attended by people passed away in Karachi at the age of 80 on from different sects of Islam due to his Sunday 21st June 2020. He was buried on Tafseer-e-Qur’an presented in a unique and Monday 22nd June 2020. logical style.

Allama Jauhari was born in Patna when Allama Jauhari was also an author, a poet, it was part of British India. He migrated a historian and a philosopher. His book to Pakistan in 1949. He studied Islamic “Alamaat e Zahoor e Mehdi (a.s.)” is theology for ten years in Najaf, Iraq, under considered one of the most comprehensive the guidance of Marhum Ayatullah-al-Uzma books ever written on the topic of Imam Al Sayyid Abu al-Qasim al-Khoei following Mahdi (a.t.f.s.), and his book “Hadees–e– which he returned to Karachi in 1965. Karbala” is one of the few “Maqtal” written in Urdu and is considered as one of the most and prayed for the departed soul. The In Karachi, he served as the Principal of the well-compiled sources of the traditions that President of Pakistan, Dr. Arif Alvi also Jamia Imamia Seminary where he taught are related to the event of Karbala. phoned Marhum’s son, Asad Jauhari Islamic Studies at the Government College and expressed his deep grief and sorrow The Government of Pakistan awarded Nazimabad for five years. over the death of his father. He said that the Sitara-e-Imtiaz to Marhum for his Allama Jauhari’s religious services and his contribution to society at large. His unique Allama Jauhari was one of Pakistan’s most contributions towards interfaith harmony style of oratory earned him the President of renowned Shia Scholars. He was a highly will always be remembered. respected orator and his sermons were Pakistan’s ‘Pride of Performance’ Award. composed on observance of Allah’s orders, The Pakistan Prime Minister, Imran Khan May Allah (s.w.t.) grant Allama Talib pursuing the way of Prophet Muhammad expressed deep grief and sorrow over the Jauhari maghferat and rest his soul in (s.a.w.) and love and respect for Ahlulbayt sad demise of Allama Talib Jauhari. He eternal peace. Sura-e-Fateha is requested (a.s.). His lectures (many of which are sent condolences to the bereaved family for him. Marhum Mahmood Hussein Kanji Daya (1955–2019) Marhum Alhaj Mahmood Hussein Kanji roles and was also Zakir-e-Imam Hussein Daya (of Moshi) passed away in Bangalore, (AS). He recently also pursued an online India on Friday 30th August 2019. Marhum course on the subject of Fiqh. was buried there on 31st August 2019. Marhum offered voluntary services to Marhum was affectionately known by the students who came from various jamaats to name of ‘Kaka’ (Uncle). He was an active Moshi for studies at the famous Kilimanjaro and dedicated member of Moshi Jamaat Christian Medical University College and played the role of a leader and mentor (KCMC). The students could rely on him for while also supporting people from all walks any help and support they needed. of life. He was the younger brother of long- serving former President of Moshi Jamaat, Marhum followed the footsteps of his late Ahmed H. Daya. father Hussein bhai and continued his legacy in four areas: Marhum Mahmood Hussein Kanji Daya’s • Sabeel, in the name of Imam Hussein long illustrious services to Moshi Jamaat (A.S.), during the months of Muharram his social and religious services and also were varied. He served as a Mukhi, member and Safar. for the support he provided to families of the Moshi Managing Committee and in • Being in charge of Taziya/Alam in the undergoing distressing times. the musafarkhana and maintenance sub Imambargha. committees. He was a patron and a regular • Participating in the rites of Ghusal, The Secretariat conveyed condolences participant from Moshi Jamaat in the Kafan and Dafan. to his wife, daughters, grandchildren, his Africa Federation (AFED) Annual Qur’an • Making of Mohr (Sajdagha). His brother Ahmed bhai Daya and all other Competition for many years. technique of doing this has benefitted family members. many people around the world when Marhum had deep respect for both secular reciting their daily prayers. We pray to Allah (SWT) to grant Marhum and religious education. He served the maghferat and place his soul amongst the Moshi Madressah for more than three Marhum’s death leaves a big vacuum in the blessed ones who continuously receive decades as a teacher and in administration community in Moshi. He will be missed for mercy and grace of Allah (SWT) - Ameen.

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Marhum Maulana Syed Dr. Kalbe Sadiq (1939 – 2020)

Renowned scholar, Maulana Syed Dr. Marhum was also the President of The Kalbe Sadiq passed away in a hospital in Era’s Medical College and Hospital in Lucknow, India on Tuesday 24th November Lucknow and was the General Secretary of 2020. He was buried in Lucknow the next the All India Shia Conference in addition day; The Hindustan Times reported that to being a member of Anjuman-e-Wazifiya- many people called his death a loss to e-Sadat-o-Momineen. mankind, and stated that a massive crowd of people of all religions joined the funeral Marhum Syed Kalbe Sadiq was highly procession to pay their respects. respected amongst all Islamic sects for the role he played in creating communal Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted, harmony between Hindus and Muslims “The passing away of Maulana Kalbe and also Shias and Sunnis. Working for Sadiq, who was deputy chairman of All peaceful coexistence was one of the basic India Muslim Personal Law Board is very objectives of his life. He was well known saddening. He made remarkable efforts for his simplicity, politeness, morals, for social harmony and brotherhood. My good public relationship and on his self- condolences to his family and loved ones.” discipline regarding punctuality.

The President of India, Ram Nath Kovind The educational and charitable projects run said: “I am grieved by the passing away of under his able guidance and supervision mediator. India’s Home Minister and such a respected Islamic theologist. He was included: Deputy Chief Minister, Dr. Dinesh Sharma known for his candor and appreciated for • Tawheedul Muslemeen Trust, and visited Maulana in hospital last year. his philanthropy which helped innumerable Lucknow. After Marhum’s demise, India’s Defence needy children. His contribution will be • Unity College and Unity Mission Minister, Rajnath Singh stated, “The cherished. My condolences to his family School, Lucknow. passing away of Maulana Kalbe Sadiq, a members and countless followers.” • Unity Industrial Training Center, prominent Shia religious leader, is very Lucknow. sad. He was the vice president of All India Marhum was a renowned Islamic scholar, • Unity Public School, Allahabad Muslim Personal Law Board and always eminent cleric, and educationist. He was • M.U. College, Aligarh. stressed on strengthening brotherhood the son of renowned Maulana Syed Kalbe • Unity Computer Centre, Lucknow in society. He was a noble and great Hussain Naqvi, and was the brother of • Unity Free Education Programs personality. I express my condolences to Maulana Syed Kalbe Abid. Marhum’s in Lucknow, Jaunpur, Jalalpur, his family and loved ones.” nephew, Maulana Syed Kalbe Jawad Allahabad, Barabanki, Moradabad currently leads the juma prayers at the Asfi and Aligarh etc. In his condolence message, the Africa Masjid, in Lucknow, India. • Hiza Charitable Hospital, Lucknow Federation Chairman, Shabir Najafi • T.M.T. Medical Centre, Shikarpur, U.P. reflected on Marhum’s vast knowledge of Syed Kalbe Sadiq was born on 22nd June • T.M.T. Widow’s Pension Scheme. Islam and the madh’hab of the Ahlulbayt. 1939 in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India. • T.M.T. Orphan’s Educational He said that Marhum had a long and He received his early education from the Sponsorship Scheme. rich experience in secular matters that Madrasa Sultanul Madaris (founded in • Reconstruction and expansion of Marhum that had made him a popular and 1892) where he excelled. He received his Imam Bargah of Ghufran Maab, inspirational speaker amongst Muslims B.A. degree and thereafter, his M.A. degree Lucknow. and non-Muslims in India and in parts of in Arabic Literature from Aligarh Muslim • Reconstruction and renovation of the the world where he lectured. An inspiring University. He received his Ph.D. from tomb of prominent Urdu elegy writer address by Maulana Kalbe Sadiq at the Lucknow University, and one of his most and Marsia Khwan Hazrat Meer World Federation Conference was delivered distinctive achievements was to submit Anees, Lucknow. in 1988 in the U.K. The link for this speech the first Ph.D. thesis ever submitted to is: https://youtu.be/Y7mIoifRgJ0. Lucknow University in the Arabic language. He leaves behind a multifaceted legacy of a vision to achieve modern education Syed Kalbe Sadiq is survived by his wife, Syed Kalbe Sadiq founded the Tauheedul for children of all economic backgrounds three sons and a daughter. We pray to Allah Muslimeen Trust in 1984 with an aim to give and uplifting the economic status of (SWT) to grant Marhum maghferat and educational assistance and scholarships needy families. His exemplary work shall place his soul amongst the blessed ones students from less privileged families. The be cherished for many decades to come. who continuously receive mercy and grace Trust runs several educational, charitable Over 30,000,000 Shias, as well as many of Allah (SWT) – Ameen. Sura-Al-Fateha is and constructive projects in various parts Sunni Muslims in India will miss his of India. role and presence as an arbitrator and requested for Marhum.

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Marhum Mohib Ali Roshanali Nasser (1947 – 2020)

Marhum Mohib Ali Roshanali Dawood Musawi established the Head Office of all Nasser passed away in Mumbai, on the Trusts in a new four-storey building Thursday 22nd October 2020 (5th Rabi-ul- known as Najafi House situated at 159, Awwal 1442 AH). Nishanpara Road in Dongri, Mumbai.

Mohib Ali bhai, who was born and raised Marhum Mohib Ali bhai held various in Mumbai was a dedicated social worker leadership positions in the community with a deep passion for charity work. He in Mumbai. He served as President of followed in the footsteps of his late father Mumbai KSI Jamaat for several years and Marhum Murrabbi Roshanali Nasser as President of Habib Trust for over two and grandfather Marhum Murrabbi Haji decades. At the time of his death he was Dawood Nasser. He was humble and the President of Khoja Shia Ithnaasheri had a soft-spoken personality. He will Jamaat Masjid Trust of Mumbai, be remembered for his kind heart for Chairman of Al-Imaan Charitable Trust always willing to help. His death has left and Vice President of the Anjuman e Faiz- a big vacuum in the community at large e-Panjatani (Est. 1912), an organization and in India in particular. He worked for that his father, Marhum Roshanali thereafter rehabilitated these into decades to organize and provide welfare Dawood had served in as President from modern musafarkhanas now available to assistance to deserving families all over 1981 until his demise in 2008. zawwars at a minimal cost. India through the institutions established by his family. Marhum Mohib Ali and his fellow Marhum Mohib Ali bhai was also actively Trustees of Anjumane Faiz-e- involved in the social and political spheres The institutions included the Imaan Panjatani were actively involved in the in India and was a Managing Committee Foundation that was established in 1981 repossession process of musafarkhanas Member of the Indian Personnel Export and whose Founder President was his late in Najaf, Karbala, Basra and Kadhmain Promotion Council (IPEPCIL) and the father, Murrabbi Roshanali Haji Dawood from the Government of Iraq. These General Secretary of the Indo-Arab Nasser. To streamline the activities of musafarkhanas were donated many years Society. He also keenly assisted the this institution, the Al-Imaan Charitable ago by the Khoja Shia Ithna-Asheris Central Health Board (CHB) of the Africa Trust was then established in 1987. This from East Africa and India specifically Federation in arranging for patients from Trust included an Education Promotion for the convenience of Zawwars of Imam Africa to be treated in India. Trust, an Orphan Welfare Trust and a Hussain (AS) and were placed under Clean Water Aid Foundation so as to the management of Anjuman e Faiz-e- Marhum was from the third generation of reach out to needy families, orphans Panjatani of Mumbai, India. With their Nasser family, his grandfather Murrabbi and widows. Marhum Mohib Ali with the persistent efforts, the Trustees succeeded Haji Dawood Nasser, the then President of assistance from Allama Syed Mohamed to repossess the musafarkhanas and Mumbai Jamaat was a frequent visitor to Dar es Salaam, Mombasa and other East African cities and had established close bonds with the Khoja Shia Ithna-Asheris of Africa since the early 1900s. The same tradition was continued by his late father, Murrabbi Haji Roshanali Nasser.

Marhum Mohib Ali Nasser had many friends and wide acquaintances in East Africa, Aden, Mogadishu, Mozambique, Congo, Madagascar, Mauritius, Reunion, Comoros and in other parts of the world. The Chairman of Africa Federation, Shabir Najafi and the Vice Chairman, Aunali Marhum Mohib Ali Roshanali Nasser addressing the Indo-Arab Society’s 55th Khalfan both sent befitting condolence Foundation Day on 12th November, 2009 in Mumbai, India. He was then the General messages to the family of the deceased. Secretary of the organization which was established in 1954 and inaugurated by India’s then Prime Minister Jawahrlal Nehru. Seen in the picture are Consul We pray to Allah (SWT) to grant Marhum Generals of Egypt, Bahrain, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Yemen, Iran, Afghanistan, maghferat and place his soul amongst the Malaysia and the Consuls of the U.S.A. and the People’s Republic of China. Marhum blessed ones who continuously receive Mohib held many leadership positions in the Khoja Shia community and was active mercy and grace of Allah (SWT) - Ameen. in many business, religious and charitable activities. Sura-Al-Fateha is requested for Marhum.

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Keeping pace with the world: the case of diversifying Educational Pathways

When one speaks about the importance of education The changing landscape of workforce in the late 1990’s and with some elders in our society, often statements such as, early millennium, thanks to the technological evolution, ‘education was not a priority during our time (1960’s–1980’s)’ cultural, historical, global and partly political change, and ‘education was a privilege in the earlier days, it certainly brought with it the necessity to pursue education at much is a necessity in the current times’ are heard. These higher levels than what was previously common. The number statements reflect how our society has evolved over time and of students who attended colleges and universities increased it is no secret that education is a growing means to secure a tremendously as opposed to those who previously stopped decent future. Various published articles have described the post-secondary school. types of education, roles of schools and the historical and evolutionary perspectives of education. In this piece I will Many community members pursued professions that were focus on the importance and diversification of education in needed, relevant and rather paying (return of investment), the Khoja Ithnasheri community in East Africa. but also those considered to be ‘noble’. These included a medical degree, accounts, finance, pharmacy and business To my understanding, the job market during the early 1960’s to administration. Most of these professions were chosen late 1990’s in East Africa, did not require significant training, because they brought about financial independence, catered complex learning or technology related skills for various for the market needs at the time and business degrees reasons beyond the scope of this article. Most community provided the knowhow on how to build on one’s family members were therefore involved in clerical jobs, trading, business or own new business. Gradually more women began business, handling general merchandise shops and the like. getting opportunities to study and went to universities in Most members were either satisfied with a secondary school their country of residence or overseas. education or simply did not have the means or avenues to pursue higher education. A few interested individuals In today’s times, the workforce is changing rapidly. The pursued professional careers. Most of them were men. job market is more competitive, more demanding, more

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diverse and therefore requires a In addition, our focus as parents, prompt adaptation by the community. teachers and guardians must shift Thanks to the Africa Federation from that of wanting our children to (AFED) individual loan schemes, more be ‘achievers’ to that of making them students from humble backgrounds ‘inquirers’ instead. We must change in the community can now obtain the not only our teaching curriculums and education needed. Similar loans are fixed education pathways to include also provided by some other community more critical thinking and self-learning institutions like the World Federation but also our approach in regards to (WF). ranking top three or top ten in class and school. As a recipient of the AFED education loan, I believe that the importance of Instead we should be concerned such loans and of paying back the loan whether our children are asking the By Mohamed Zahir Alimohamed, on time cannot be overstated. The loan right questions at the right time, and B.Sc. BT, M.Sc. MBB, Ph.D Candidate, scheme is built on a rolling basis, and whether they are being given the space Dar es Salaam. therefore thanks to the recipient before and encouragement to question, to ask me for paying his or her loan, I was able ‘why’ so as to develop their problem- to obtain a loan with a responsibility solving skills. to do repay this loan on time to allow other students to also benefit from the Furthermore, and perhaps most loan scheme. importantly, it is imperative for the community as a whole to not just allow Whilst we have schemes that facilitate but also encourage equal access and students to pursue further careers opportunity for women in education there has to be caution on the careers and in ambitious careers. Changing our youths pursue. Many community times do need changing approaches. students still prefer conventional Women can no longer stay at home careers while in today’s times, there as exclusive home makers unless is a need to diversify in order to cater exceptional circumstances allow for for workplace and community needs this. To fulfill their ambitions as well as that are rapidly growing and will soon assist their families, they are required dictate the next generational workforce. to study and to work. Is not educating a woman equivalent to educating a The next workforce will need more data community? analysts, information security analysts, nurses, biotechnologists, teachers, The global challenge for education lecturers, mental health professionals, is not just about providing access, genetic counsellors, occupational but also ensuring progress. As a well- therapists, application developers established, recognized and respectable and the like. These professions are community, we have the means to help necessary. As technology further others to grow. But the start needs to be evolves, digitalization will be a norm, internalized. The approach needs to be mental health will be an important part at an individual level. It is only then that of healthcare, precision medicine will we can make a substantial impact and be a reality and working from home make a difference. To keep pace with or remote areas will no longer be a the rapidly changing world, we must hindrance. We need to ensure that our redefine how we perceive education, community has specialists in these how we support diversification, how fields so that we do not get left behind we involve gender equality and how we as the world moves ahead. choose and support diverse careers.

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The Need for a Community Think Tank to contemplate futuristically

As a moderator of an international The Think Tank committee would say for the next ten or twenty years unlike discussion group I have taken the liberty be expected to also have strategic sub-committees that respond to and of sharing the thoughts of those who aired advisory bodies that connect, think and tackle current and near-future issues. their views on the need for a Think Tank review the risks and opportunities that When Think Tanks are independent they in the community, in an international could face the community in future. last much longer, providing continuity discussion forum “Bethak”. Based on the data collected, the Think and accumulated experiences. Tank Committee would then provide The purpose of having a Think Tank recommendations to their community While being independent the Think Tank is to perform research and to provide leadership teams which would infuse Committee would not be able to override advocacy on issues like social policy and at the state level, on economics, intellectual capital in our leadership. the powers of authority of the appointing political strategy and technological body nor substitute them in any way. It options in order to develop a long-term It will also be expected to mobilise would have no political role and would improvement strategy. expertise and serve as a catalyst for be purely an advisory or consultative ideas to influence policy-makingbody which looks far ahead to advise in A Think Tank within the community processes. The committee can which direction the community should is important and should consist of capture the community’s imagination, be navigating. professionals in various fields so that the stimulate public debate and offer future of the community can be charted practical solutions to tackle anticipated The Think Tank Committee will out properly rather than ideas just being challenges. To obtain ideas from the have seasoned minds, thinkers aired and implemented without any community at large, it can have an from community leaders, maulanas, long-term thought put into it. open brainstorming forum where people academics, psychologists, social are encouraged to think out of the box scientists, retired civil servants familiar After the purpose of the proposed Think and debate solutions and strategies for with working in the government, active Tank is agreed upon, a vision needs to be drafted identifying the purpose, mission defined problems. and retired professionals and successful and the terms of reference. The Think business people among others. Tank can operate by hiring and then There are different thoughts on directing independent consultants to whether a Think Tank Committee If government organisations and large carry out market research and analysis should be operated independently or as corporations use Think Tanks to advise in order to come up with data that subcommittee of a jamaat or federation. them on policy-making why not jamaats prepares and guides the community for As a rule, Think Tanks work strategically, and our federations? Large corporations the near future. they consider issues over the long-term use Think Tank committees to help their

76 Federation Samachar GUEST COLUMN

Boards foresee and navigate the road with transparency of affairs, complete ahead, identifying opportunities and accountability, understanding of limits meet potential challenges. of a leader’s mandates and a unified communal agenda that is global in In the past, Marhum Hassan Ali M. Jaffer perspective and local in execution. of Mombasa talked about the challenges For the near and distant future the that our community faces and how following challenges can be deliberated: important it is to identify issues that call - Preserving our distinct Khoja for attention and to appoint independent identity; “Think Tank Groups” to review and make - Strengthening our intellectual core recommendations. He asked if individual and existing institutions and build jamaats carry out any proper analytical new ones; census, survey or projections and on - Coping with the spiritual problems how leadership at local jamaat, regional of Shia Ithna-Asheris in the West and global levels base their assessments after having been born and educated to form opinions and formulate plans in a western liberal environment; without basic facts. He questioned how - Handling matters relating to anyone can develop vision without basic gerontology for the committee facts and whether our leadership is aware to come up with programmes to of what the priority issues to be handled alleviate the problems. n.b: The article has also incorporated are. ideas of several community members If a Think Tank is established it should be whose names have not been If we want to get more out of our own independent of any jamaat or other body. mentioned. Statements have either intellectual resources and build the next If it is appointed by a regional federation been paraphrased or quoted without generation on a rational path of change, it will make recommendations only and using the quotation marks, with no new ways of thinking are required. This not decisions. It will be purely an advisory intention of plagiarizing. could involve a centralised, global and consultative body. research and policy centre that has intellectual wherewithal to address The appointing body can then make pressing issues, unpack them and informed decisions using research re-present them for debate by the material, data, and analysis to seek the community. We need people sufficiently objective of each scenario. The ideal distanced from daily power play to help Think Tank will be autonomous in its us think through and negotiate the new functions, undertaking research and or alternative pathways to a better future. policy analysis and strategizing ten to twenty years ahead by evaluating risks A note of caution expressed is that the and challenges of the distant future. Khojas are facing an existential crisis and do not have a sustainable future. This To get started a federation needs to opinion comes with the belief that our identify a small group of experts and community will just gradually disappear appoint an articulate, well connected and cease to exist in the way we know leader for this group who understands the it today. A Think Tank could save the goals, and can mobilise resources to get situation where experts can try to analyse the Think Tank off the ground. and understand these existential issues besides several others like preservation Will the community face a future shock of Khoja identity, alienation of the new if it does not think futuristically? Time generation Khoja youths, and faltering will tell but a Think Tank could provide intellectual core of our participative a good forecast to enable precautions community. to be taken to stop anything radical from happening or at least mitigate any While taking this into consideration negative consequences of an otherwise a Think Tank would be dynamic only unforeseen situation.

Federation Samachar 77 ANON

Noise Hazard in Mosques

Speaking loudly into the microphone when it already amplifies any small voice or sound is equal to yelling. This is worse when it occurs in a mosque which is a sanctified place designed for Salaat.

The word “Masjid” is derived from “Sajdah” where believers are silently engaged in Salaat individually when not performing it in a disciplined congregation. Salaat is required to be performed in an environment of general silence which helps every individual to attain the concentration required.

The congregational salaat likewise needs be led with no excessive voice raised by the use of a microphone and indeed there should be none of it when hearing at a faster pace than through conveniently overlooked. Such mosques the gathering is small. the process of aging. Islam forbids need not be named because these are maltreatment on fellow human beings known for their noisy traditions. The solemnity of silence, that is free of and this is exactly what is inflicted when noise pollution, is therefore a mark of attendees in a mosque are exposed to Fortunately in some mosques and great respect expected in any mosque. loud noise. centres noise hazards are minimal. In See Ruling No. 900 of Islamic Laws few, the practice of loud broadcasts of As Seyyed Sistani. Apart from the Unfortunately noise hazard continues is almost non-existent with signs all obligatory Salaat which is performed in unabated possibly for the following around calling for silence. In some an environment of controlled peaceful reasons: countries noise pollution is a punishable silence, all other activities like duas and - ignorance of the injuries to the offence if caused with disregard to the lectures are optional and they must not hearing mechanism suffered; laws in force. In these countries, for the take place when others, however few, are - the high voice volume is a stubborn sake of availing citizens with a good and engaged in individual Salaat, and yet if tradition experienced over a long dignified quality of life, a mere single they are conducted then they must not period of time that is now treated momentary hoot (or honk) from a car be noisy to violate the sanctity of the as normal and acceptable; in a quiet residential neighbourhood mosque at all. - psychological studies specify that is considered an offense that can be when lecturers or preachers lack punishable by law. If a single honk at a A “dua” strictly is a ‘call’ to Allah (SWT) self-confidence they lapse into wrong place is not acceptable, greater on an individual basis. It is invoked shouting to compensate and thus respect should be for mosques. silently and not recited. Reciting this at to appear assertive; the top of one’s voice into a microphone, - some reciters believe that louder The Central Health Board’s enlightening with amplifiers strung around, is not their voice the greater is their circular needs to be re-visited to ensure conducive to its purpose or effective admiration from the audience. our places of worship facilitate an in results. Supplications are to be in a environment whereby worshippers are humbled low voice – at times tearful – As far back as 8th January, 2009, a three not distracted from their concentration like a slave (ab’d) pleading to his Master page circular of the Central Health when offering prayers to the Almighty (Rabb). And that is what we are in our Board of the Africa Federation warned nor subjected to health hazards. relation to Allah (SWT). on the health hazards of loud noise. With eleven years having elapsed since May Allah (SWT) inspire us to seek His A loud voice is a noise hazard and this then, one wonders why noise pollution guidance and attain it so that we conduct has been scientifically proved to be is still tolerated in some mosques ourselves in His place of Worship in the causing an irreversible gradual loss of and the detrimental health effects are manner that pleases Him.

78 Federation Samachar FAMILY ISSUES

The Problem with Family Problems

The best love and concern we of the problem. And the father who happen to have within us is for our successfully ‘managed’ the problem families. The most common issues should have much less to fear. in life concern families. The easiest issues to handle in life are those The Difference: of families. And yet, these are the The difference is in the thoughts issues which are let to develop into that are formulated, the consequent problems while the intentions were words selected and used and the good for solving them. body language applied in wanting to solve the problem when it is seen as Small family issues are as common needing to be ‘faced’ and the same as hiccups in life but family problems one seen as needing to be ‘managed.’ must not be mistaken as mere small issues. However, there can be a thin A father who thinks he has to “face” line between these two. the problem in the belief that it does not happen elsewhere has to blame No amicable solution is possible his pessimist mindset. without first making a diagnosis of whether it is a common family Often a problem appears much issue or a delicate family problem bigger than it is when it first makes a as each requires different tact and sudden ugly appearance. Therefore, approach. For seeking a way forward rash decisions are likely or reactions there needs to be a clear, sober and are steered inconsistent with the unbiased mindset. seriousness of the problem, only to worsen the problem. When the wife is angry because the husband did not make a telephone There is yet another scenario. It is call from his office to ask if she natural to have fear of a problem was feeling better, this would be that seems likely to arise but there considered as a small family issue. is no certainty of it. The problem However it is a more serious family may indeed show up, if such fear problem if the wife gets once again negatively influenced the manner angry, because this time the husband of reaction to the problem probably made a rare surprise telephone call resulting from incorrect speculation. just to find out discreetly if she was at home, and supposedly to ask if Importantly however, all efforts she was well. She had not said that directed into managing problems she was unwell when he left for work. must on every occasion be supported with dua to Allah (SWT) for help In another case scenario, a father (Ref.Q.27:62) and attended to with attempting to reunite his daughter patience (Sab’r) (Ref.Q.02:177) with her husband after a short and also reliance (tawakkal) solely separation has a problem. However, on Allah (SWT) (Ref.Q.39:38) for the father who successfully ‘faced’ successful results which then lie the problem should fear a recurrence with the will of Allah (SWT).

Federation Samachar 79 SPIRITUALITY

A Moment of Sheer Epiphany

“And stop them, for they shall be questioned” (Surah- al-Saffat: 24)

“Come on!! Run just a bit faster!!! You run!” I said, taking her bag from her. “Here, let me carry that!” I called out to can do it!!” I called out over my shoulder “I will carry this! Just run! I am right one young mother as I took her bag from to the elderly lady straggling behind me behind you!” her. “You handle the kids! Just keep as we ran across the massive terminal running I am right behind you!” We were at New York’s LaGuardia airport. The She was too out of breath to argue. But all running as fast as possible. Our hearts wheels of her carry-on luggage kept she trusted me. We had shared a friendly were pounding and the panic and fear of jamming up and slowing her down. She chat at Toronto Airport and she knew I missing the flight was so intense that we didn’t have the luxury of being hands- was an Islamic preacher. She had shared were completely speechless. free like me. What a relief I had agreed some stories of her own experience of to send my carry-on with the rest of my growing up in Mumbai as a Christian It was imperative for me to be on that luggage when the airline check-in lady at from Goa. flight. I was scheduled to be on the Toronto Airport had offered the option. mimbar in front of a huge congregation in The four Bohra families ahead of me were just a few hours after landing! There was We had been advised of the ominous trying to run as they juggled with carry- no way I could afford to miss that flight. possibility that our connecting flight to on luggage, wheelchairs and children’s Mumbai would probably not be waiting strollers. I had chatted with them, too, The check-in personnel were also in for us anymore because we had landed while we waited for our delayed flight a panic as they waited for us. “Hold over an hour late. Yet, all 22 of us, men, in Toronto. They were all travelling to the doors! The passengers are here!” women and children were running as fast Mumbai to commemorate Muharram exclaimed the check-in lady at the gate we could, galvanized with the possibility there and had become so emotional to someone on the phone as she quickly of a flicker of hope. to hear that I was a Zakira and was sprang into action and scanned the travelling to recite majalis in Mumbai boarding passes of the Bohra families. I could no longer hear the lady behind at the world-famous Bandra Masjid. The me. I looked over my shoulder and saw love of Imam Hussein a.s had bonded I held out my passport and boarding pass, her some distance behind; I decided to us instantaneously. The ladies had even attempting to cross while still holding on turn around and go back for her. “You promised to come to listen to my majlis. to everyone’s baggage.

80 Federation Samachar SPIRITUALITY

“Wait a minute Ma’am!” the check-in of your Lord. And We will deliver those lady at the gate placed her hand in front who guarded (against evil), and We will of me and stopped me abruptly. “Where’s leave the unjust therein on their knees.” your Mumbai visa?!” she asked, flipping through my passport. (Surah-al-Maryam: 71-72)

I stared at her in disbelief. Someone took Sheikh Abbas al Qummi in his notable the bags from my hands. “Ma’am, please book on the afterlife, Manazilul Akhirah hurry up! I’ll need to see your Mumbai (Chapter 10, pg 177) explains that both visa. The doors are closing. I can’t even Shia and Sunni commentators agree guarantee all of you can still get on!” that the questioning referred to in the verse “And stop them, for they shall I froze as a sickening realization swept be questioned” (37:24) refers to the over me. My visa!! I had stuffed the visa third station on the poole sirat. This in the side pocket of my hand-luggage third station is named “The love of the ….and I had let my hand-luggage go ahlulblayt a.s or Wilayah” and passing with the cargo when they had offered the over it successfully requires the presence of Ali, he explains, is surely the key to option in Toronto. of the prerequisite acceptance of the pass easily over this frightful bridge. wilayah of Imam Ali a.s in the heart of The check-in lady at the gate said “Ma’am every believer. My hands trembled as I turned on I am so sorry! You can’t fly. I can’t let you my phone. In a sheer state of panic I go without a visa.” The Bohra families, Many traditions have been quoted in repeatedly tried to call my husband in the Christian lady, even some of the other both Shia and Sunni books to explain Toronto. He was driving on the highway passengers stopped and gathered around that Wilayah means the Love of Imam me to offer assistance. Ali (a.s). but finally pulled over on the side of the highway and took my call. “Please don’t Life often brings moments of truth that It is written in the famous Tafsir al- be upset,” I begged him. “I know you told not only parallel but metaphorically bring Thalabi (also known as Al-Kashf wa-l- me to take care of the visa but I don’t to life what has been foreshadowed in the bayān ʿan tafsīr al-Qurʾān) a classical know why I kept it in my hand-luggage. Holy Quran and by our Holy Ahlulbayt a.s Sunni tafsir, or commentary on the And now it’s gone. I didn’t keep it with Quran composed of 10 volumes and over my passport. I can’t find it. Please, “And stop them, for they shall be 3,425 pages, by eleventh-century Islamic please do something, anything.” questioned”. (Surah- al-Saffat : 24) scholar Ahmad ibn Muhammad al- Thalabi, that people will be stopped and The Bohra family, the Christian lady all Mufasareen, or commentators of the asked if they accepted the walayah’ of began to plead with the check-in lady. Holy Quran, unanimously agree that this Imam Ali (A.S.) in the world and if they verse refers to the questioning that all said, “Aliyyun Waliyullah” while believing “I am sorry I can’t let her go! You all need believers must undergo when attempting in it. to run!” she said, thrusting a boarding to cross the poole sirat, the bridge to pass at the last passenger. She picked heaven over the blazing, roaring fires of Allamah Huwainee and Sheikh Tabari, up the phone and began dialling. hell. both great scholars of the Ahle Sunnah, quote the Holy Prophet (saww) as saying, “Lisa? All passengers are checked in. Allah says of the passing over of this “O’ Ali! Whoever denies your love will be But we have to remove the luggage of one bridge in the Qur’an: stopped (from going further) over the passenger. She doesn’t have her visa”. .Poole Sirat”.” She looked at me apologetically َواِ ْن ِّم ْن ُك ْم اِالَّ َو ِار ُدهَا، آَ َان َعلى َربِّ َك َح ْت ًما َم ْق ِضيًا، ثُ َّم نُنَ ِّجى In Sawaeqe Muhriqa, reports Sheikh Al Back in Toronto, my husband, parked .الَّ ِذ ْي َن اتَّقَ ْوا َو نَ َذ ُر الظَّالِ ِم ْي َن فِ ْيهَا ِجثِيًّا Qummi, it is written that “whoever has dangerously on the side of the highway, “And there is not one of you but shall got the passport of the Love of Ali (A.S.) had accessed his email and was trying to come to it, this is an unavoidable decree will pass easily over the Sirat.” The love send me an electronic version of my visa. Continued on page 80

Federation Samachar 81 SPIRITUALITY

Continued from page 79 “I am sorry Ma’am, this email version keep running. Maybe they haven’t “Behen, you don’t know how much just won’t do,” said the check-in pushed off yet!” we all have been begging Maula Ali to lady apologetically as I flashed my make a miracle happen!! Allaho Akbar!! smartphone at her. “I need an actual I began to run as she picked up the Shukrlillah!!” print-out of the visa….It has be a colour phone to dial. The lady who had helped print-out. Anyway, I am so sorry. It’s me talk to the gentleman opened the The Christian lady who I had helped just too late. I can’t let you on this flight gate for me. I was now on the ramp with the bags was also crying. anymore. They have already closed the leading to the aircraft. As I ran, I could doors now. Please step aside I need to see the indoor ramp shifting under “You helped me so much,” she said. take this next customer now.” me and begin to fold. I ran as fast as I “I said to God how can a person who could and far away I could see a sight helped me get on this flight herself get left behind? Ever since we left you at The doors of the gate closed in front of that I had never seen before in all my the gate we have been praying and me but I still kept pleading with her. I years of flying. The airplane doors were praying for you. All of us were crying.” caught the eye of her co-worker. I ran to completely shut and the ramp had her. I showed her the electronic visa. She already pulled away a few noticeable shrugged and shook her head, “Ma’am It is in surreal moments such as these inches from the door. you need to understand, you can’t go that the most strongest of epiphanies on this flight anymore. The doors are often happen. And all that we have And yet I kept running. I had become closed, see? Even the airplane’s doors understood in theory becomes a vivid speechless with fear and yet my lips are closed. Federal regulations do not example to solidify the concept into our were saying what they could only say, allow the door of an aircraft to open consciousness forever and ever. after they are closed.” “Ya Ali Madad, Ya Ali Madad, Ya Ali Madad.” The impossible can surely become the She politely pushed me aside and then possible when those who have been her eye caught the sight of a gentleman And then I saw something that still permitted to intercede become the across the other end of the airport. makes my hands tremble. Allah (SWT) cause of our intercession. And if merely is my Witness, I saw the aircraft’s door good and just people in power and “Well, maybe he could have helped opening. A few inches. Just a few. Just sincere human beings can help us when you.” She shrugged. “But now it’s too enough for me to slip in sideways. all doors were closed and all paths late.” narrowed, so can Maula Ali a.s help us I looked down and the space between to cross the Bridge to Heaven and safely But she raised her hand and gestured the ramp and the aircraft door was across the roaring fires of Hell. Ilaahi to the gentleman anyway. He was busy wide enough that I could see the snow Ameen. talking on the phone with someone but on the ground a few feet below us. And يَ ْو َمئِ ٍذالَّ تَنفَ ُع َّالشفَ َاعةُ إِالَّ َم ْن أَ ِذ َن لَهُ َّالر ْح َم ُن he saw her beckoning to us and began I jumped over that space and slid in . َو َر ِض َي لَهُ قَ ْوالً .to walk towards us. Both the lady and I sideways through that narrow space ran towards him. He kept talking on the “On that day shall no intercession phone. I flashed my phone at him and The air hostess pulled me in and said, avail except of him whom the showed him my electronic visa. “Never in my 20 years have I ever seen Beneficent God allows and whose this happen!! We were literally about to “Rhonda says she can’t get on the flight word He is pleased with.” (Surah Ta push off. You are one lucky lady!” because she doesn’t have a printed Ha, 20:109). visa,” explained the lady. The man, As I walked past the passengers all َوالَ تَنفَ ُع َّالشفَ َاعةُ ِع َندهُ إِالَّ لِ َم ْن أَ ِذ َن لَهُ ,without hanging up his phone call the way to my assigned seat, my eyes walked over towards the original check- caught sight of the male member of one in lady, leaned over and simply said “And intercession will not avail aught of the Bohra families. He was sobbing quietly, “She can go. Electronic visas with Him save of him whom He are fine. Tell them she’s coming.” in his hands and then he looked up permits.” (Surah Sabah, 34:23). and our eyes met. And his tear-stained, َوالَ يَ ْملِ ُك الَّ ِذ َين يَ ْد ُع َون ِمن ُدونِ ِه َّالشفَ َاعةَ إِالَّ َمن Rhonda looked at me wide-eyed and shocked face broke into the biggest َش ِه َد بِ ْال َح ِّق َوهُ ْم يَ ْعلَ ُم َون .simply said, “Run!! Don’t stop! Just smile I have ever seen

82 Federation Samachar TALKING POINT

An Ideal Madrassah – None Ever in Sight!

It is an institution whose importance curriculum being likewise ideal and cannot be under-rated; and yet the conducive. No miracles are needed for ramifications of its misuse – when such a curriculum but only the fear subjected to – cannot be under-stated. of Allah (SWT) and further the fear of accountability after death - for a Journey of Faith and Life: curriculum to be designed and applied In every generation, the institution of - by those assuming responsibilities, Madrassahs – as a spring board - begins such as would accomplish the Journey to nurture a community into one which of faith and life in every generation. becomes proficient and stead-fast in the Tradition of Two “dities”: faith of Islam. It starts with children as students who later as adults, each lives The tradition of imposing beliefs on the life of a practicing Muslim and dies students while very young without individually when death occurs in the prompting or permitting their own state of Divine Guidance with the fate exercise of reasoning – but sheer of salvation of the soul well sealed. through their traditionally cultivated Allah (SWT) therefore, must first be This is the vision for the institution “timidity” --- and getting them later introduced to the students at young of Madrassahs in the cycle of life and in adult life to cling to the beliefs, age as the ‘Caring’ God instead of the death as one generation in a community right and wrong, -- now sheer through ‘Scaring’ God and they must be freed succeeds another. traditionally consequent “rigidity” -- from the general traditional timidity without their critical thinking, has to that inhibits asking questions and However, such an ideal Madrassah depart as alien and counterproductive. arguing for the fear of offending the cannot exist, function and succeed Blind Faith in a closed mind has no ‘Scaring ‘God, if they did. in good results and vision without its room in Islam. Continued on page 82

Federation Samachar 83 TALKING POINT

From Page 81

Ideal Curriculum: Tauhid and Allah’s Divinity and everyday life of enjoining good and also relevant excerpts from the forbidding evil (Q.03:104; 31:17) Apart from the important normal Sermons in Nahjul Balagha are and enjoining on each other Truth aspects and constituents, the following brought forth and discussed for (Haq). (Ref.Q. 103:03). must additionally and essentially be impact. included in the curriculum that can be A Dawn of a New Era: termed ‘ideal’: 4. A subject on promoting and With such an ideal Madrassah born out maintaining unity and harmony 1. Students are taught fully the of such an ideal curriculum – both as at large among brethren Muslims a spring board -- there will begin to be meaning of what they utter in (of all sects) (Ref.Q. 49:10) as raised in every generation a community Salaat; and the validity of Salaat an obligation in Islam resting on vibrant with the beliefs and practices becomes assured in their life time. all; and thereby Muslims in unity attuned to Tauhid, and cleansed of becoming deserving of Divine 2. Students are engaged in regular all elements of shirk; and prove the help to overcome challenges sessions of study of the Quran community in each generation to faced by Muslims en masse from (tadabbur) in the translation of the be the likes praised by Allah (SWT) time to time. language they know; and scheduled as Muflihoon (successful) with the to complete the entire study during 5. Dhikr u Allah, Hubb el Allah, assurance of ‘no fear nor shall they their full term in Madrassah. Taqwa Allah and Ubudiyyat grieve’ The study of the Quran has been (servitude) to Allah swt - all as What is however missing and needs declared as “Fardh” in the Q. Verse a distinct subject of learning of to happen and later to be lauded 28:86. Besides, Allah (SWT) has “Allah’s Rights on His Servants” by posterity in the history of the promised Divine Guidance through with discussion of relevant verses community is a dawn of a new era – the study of the Quran. (Ref. Q. in the Quran. 47:24). the era of perfection in the role for 6. With the ideal curriculum so Madrassahs as a vital institution that 3. Tauhid, being the most important designed and followed and with leads to the straight path of Islam pillar of Usul e Din, is taught in all the knowledge so acquired the in this life and to the eternal Fate of its aspects with examples of what students should be pressed salvation in the next life over a span of violates it. The numerous verses with the consciousness of the life which, according to the Quran, is a interspersed in the Quran on obligation needed to be fulfilled in fleeting moment.

84 Federation Samachar IN PERSPECTIVE

Early Trading Amongst the Indian Diaspora in East Africa

In an earlier article published in Inquilab, Salsabil, and Federation Federation Samachar, I mentioned Samachar. the first pioneers of our community arriving in East Africa, and their Indeed, Federation Samachar has accomplishments in settling down and prevailed over the decades. The building communities and businesses publication has become the repository around their place of worship, the of a wealth of archival history of the mosque and imambaragh. progress of our community in Africa from the first years of Indian settlers who In this article we will have a glimpse of sailed to Africa to make a better living. the early commercial trading of Khoja Ithnaasheris in East Africa, circa 1960s. When the Africa Federation decided In a World Economic forum article to digitize and archive copies of the dated 25th June, 2015, Author Christine magazines issued from 1971 to January Mungai estimated that in the 1950s, 2012, they were successful in uploading people of Indian descent in East Africa 72 issues on their website. This was a numbered 360,000. Our community remarkable achievement. Since then, the Africa Federation Secretariat has significant businesses and represented estimated in 1959 that there were 12,393 many trades and commodities, including endeavoured to make sure that all Khoja Ithnaasheries resident in Africa in importation and exportation. that year. digital copies are available online, up to the year 2019. It is noteworthy that in the year 1960, In East Africa, since the early 1900s, the Supreme Council of the Federation While the journalistic content in these numbers of Khoja Ithnaasheris of Khoja Shia Ithnaasheri Jamaats of issues illustrates our journey as settlers communities grew and flourished in Africa published a Trade Directory. This remote places. Many families became in East Africa, the advertisements in incredibly informative book contains an successful after launching small these issues of Federation Samachar astounding amount of data presented businesses, and women also helped in also give us a glimpse into the economic in the Gujarati language. The book various ways. Some of these families activity of Khoja Shia families, was published under the extraordinary advertised in community magazines whose businesses ranged from small leadership of Marhum Haji Ebrahim that accepted advertisements. Popular enterprises to small, yet economically Husein Sheriff Dewji. The back cover magazines included Rahbar, Manzeel, robust companies that operated lists advertising rates in Federation Continued on page 84

Federation Samachar 85 IN PERSPECTIVE

Continued from page 83 Samachar,(a full page cost 300 Kampala, Uganda: Commission Produce, Ration, Stationer, Wholesalers Tanzanian Shillings!). Agents and Piece Goods Merchants; and Retailers. One company listed itself Cotton Ginners and Merchants; coffee as dealing in Fancy Goods, Children’s The book is carefully indexed and includes and tea planters. Dairy Farms. Coffee Wear, Ladies’ Garments, and asked profiles of over a hundred individuals, curing, cotton Merchants. Another customers to “Remember to Insist on mostly businessmen. The book also company listed itself as a scrap dealer Quality Tailoring”. carries dozens of advertisements, and and exporter and as a motor spares these advertisements provide us with a dealer, and others advertised Produce, Chake Chake, Pemba: Dealers in fascinating and delightful list of the types Ration and Sundries and as “stockers of Cutlery, Hosiery, Perfumery, Medicines, of commodities the businesses dealt in. tyres and tubes”. All Types of Fancy and Household Goods.

Here is a delightful list of some of the Mbale, Uganda: This company offered Dar es Salaam, Tanganyika: One advertisements from various places in Sports Goods in addition to crockery, company said they imported spices, Kenya, Tanganyika, and Uganda showing enamelware, electrical goods, fancy biscuits, confectionery, fresh fruit, a truly impressive, eclectic range of goods goods, curios, household goods, radios, condensed milk, vegetable ghee, toilet and services offered by well established religious books, stationery, sundries and soap and all kinds of sundries, and said businesses in 1960: toys. they were buyers of maize, red beans, mixed beans, rice, maize flour, cassava, Mombasa, Kenya: Businesses listed Masindi, Uganda: Petrol Dealer, Motor kaffir beans, kaffir corn, coffee and all themselves as exporters, importers, Spares, Tyres and Tubes. kinds of produce. producers and dealers of coffee. They listed themselves as General Merchants Soroti, Uganda: Cutlery, Crockery, Another company also had an extensive and Commission Agents and Produce hosiery, Produce and Sundries. list and listed itself as Importers – Dealers. Items listed included Buni Exporters, Rice Millers. Dealers in Chillies, Beans, importation of Gunny Arusha, Tanganyika: This company Sisal and Ginnery. In addition, a single Bags, export of coffee. They also listed sold tyres and tubes and dealt in company said they dealt in the following themselves as Sisal Planters. Another produce, coffee, ivory and rhino horns items! Beans, Bajiri (Millet), Raw company listed themselves available for and were exporters and commission Cashewnuts, Cassava Roots (Manioc agents. They also provided insurance. Car Hire services, and one not only listed whole), Cassava Meal (Manioc Flour), Another company sold registered seed Car Hire and Transporter Service, they Cattlefood, Chora (Cowpeas), Copra, beans to farms. also dealt in new and second-hand cars. Copra Oil, Cowries, Castor Seeds, Cotton Seeds, Colombo Roots, Crocodile Arua, Uganda: Arms and Ammunition, Bukoba, Tanganyika: Stationery, Skins, Edible Oil, Groundnuts, Kernels, Cycles, Building Materials, Glassware, Cutlery, Hosiery, Hardware, Toys, Grains, Gumcopal, Gum Arabic, Grams, Carpets, Fancy Goods, Hardware, Ivory, Perfumery, Lamps and Spares. Importers Yellow Garlic Industrials, Oil, Joowari Rhino Horns, Piece Goods and Produce and Exporters. Building Materials, (Sorghum), Kapok, Maize Grain, Maize and also listed themselves as Radio Cutlery, Household Goods, Hardware, Dealers.

Fort Portal, Uganda: Crockery, Cutlery, Fancy Goods, Hosiery, Piece Goods and Sundries.

Hoima, Uganda: General Merchants and Commission Agents dealing in ivory rhino horns, motor spares and “Posho’’ Millers. Another company listed itself as a Timber Merchant in addition to dealing in ivory and rhino horns, produce, piece goods, cutlery, sundries and building materials.

86 Federation Samachar IN PERSPECTIVE

Flour, Maize Bran, Maize Husk, Oil, said they were specialists in fishing Engines. The Wolseley 15/60 is an Cakes, Onions, Yellow Peas, Pal Kernels, nets and dagaa fish nets, and dealers in automobile which was produced from Pulses, Sesame Seeds, Sunflower Seeds, Patromax, Tilley Lamps, Gramophones 1958 to, and then, as the Wolseley 16/60, Seashells, Scrap Metals, Toor Whole and Spare Parts and they could repair from 1961 to 1971 by the British Motor (Pigeon Peas), Whimbi (Finger Millet), gramophones and typewriters. Another Corporation (BMC). Morris Motors Bambaranuts, etc. merchant sold high class sweets and merged with the Austin Motor Company toffees in addition to piece goods, cutlery, in 1952 to form BMC (British Motor Also offering a unique service, was hosiery, stationery, imitation jewellery, Corporation), they sold Morris, Austin, one business that listed itself as Land perfumes, haberdashery, crockery, Wolseley, Riley and MG cars. and Estate Agents, Produce Brokers glassware and sundries. and Commission Agents, and another Lushoto, Tanganyika: General that listed itself as General Merchants, Lindi, Tanganyika: This company Merchant and Commission Agents Produce and Commission Agents. A said they were producers, merchants with four branches that dealt in Hides General Merchant and Commission Agent and commission agents, and that they and Skins, Household Goods, Hosiery, also listed themselves as Shipping Agents were “Dealers in All Kinds of Native Hardware, Piece Goods, Produce, Ration, representing at least eight schooners. Produce, Buying and Selling of Produce Wattlebark, Sundries, Timber and on Commission Basis”. Another company Tobacco. Petrol Dealers and Insurance Himo, Tanganyika: Sisal Plantation and in Lindi sold motor and cycle spares, Agents. Leather Tanning. hardware, electrical goods, batteries, Mahenge, Tanganyika: A company that Korogwe, Tanganyika: Cotton Ginners typewriters, adding machines, auto motor said it was a dealer for a major tobacco and Rice Millers. cycles and scooters. Another company listed itself as an importer and exporter, company and a sub dealer for a petroleum Kamachumu, Tanganyika: Hardware, a general merchant, and a company that company listed the following goods: Cycle spares, Perfumery, Fancy Goods ran a petrol station at Lindi and Matama Provision, Cutlery, Hosiery, Piececloth, and Ration. Silk, hosiery, Cutlery, and also offered photography services. Cycle Spares, Medicines, Stationery, Hardware, Perfumery, Watches, Cycle and Another company that sold oil seeds Suiting, Khanga, Ration, Footwear and Soft Sewing Machine - Selling and Repairing and gum also dealt in cashew nuts and Drinks. Another company said they were Undertaken. “Specialist in Up to date beeswax while being agents for Land and in Mahenge, Chilombola, Tanganyika and Tailoring.’’ Estate. that they dealt in Piece-Goods, Hosiery, Cutlery, Patent Medicines, Sundries and Kigoma, Tanganyika: A businessman all kinds of East African Produce. who dealt in native produce and motor Another company in Lindi were agents transportation also listed themselves as a for vehicles such as Morris, Wolseley, Moshi, Tanganyika: In Moshi, specialist of Dagga, red palm oil, mohogo, Riley M.G. Cars, Morris Light and Heavy maize and beans. Another businessman Commercial Vehicles and Morris Marine businessmen said they were Cotton Continued on page 86

Federation Samachar 87 IN PERSPECTIVE

Continued from page 85 Ginners, Rice Millers, Manufacturers Masasi, Tanganyika: This Merchant planters, oil millers, soap manufacturers, of Soap and Manufacturers of Leather and Commission Agent said they were insurance agents, importers and Goods. Another industrious businessman dealers in Dunlop Tyres and tubes arms exporters and manufacturers of sisal offered for sale, steel windows and doors, and ammunition, cement and hardware. ropes and twines, neutralized cotton tubular furniture, bolts, nuts, washers, They also sold Shell products and Singer seed oil and cake, toilet and washing rivets, mattresses, divan chairs, foam sewing machines. soap, and also provided agency for an mattresses and plywood. insurance company. Mingoyo, Tanganyika: Manufacturers Same, Tanganyika: Cotton Ginners. of oil, soap, rice and oil cakes. Tunduru, Tanganyika: This company listed itself as Merchant, Commission Tanga, Tanganyika: Land – Properties Morogoro, Tanganyika: This company Agent and Transporter and dealers in – Vehicles Auctioneering, brokerage. represented manufacturers, and sold petrol, diesel, kerosene, bicycle and Land Estate Agents, Property Dealers, hardware and building materials. bicycle spares, piece goods and all kinds Auctioneers and General Brokers. of East African produce. Another company said they were Moshi/Arusha/Zanzibar: This Timber Merchants and that they dealt company listed themselves as general Zanzibar: Importers, General in “Replacement Caterpillars (vehicles) merchants and commission agents, Merchant, and Exporters of Cloves and and International Spares”. produce exporters and trophy dealers, Copra. seed and grain cleaners. They listed coconut, cloves, cloves oil, copra, copra Pangani, Tanganyika: While one The above is just a short example of oil, copra cakes, Colombo roots, ivory, company listed itself as a Transporter, some businesses in a few towns across chillies, bark and rhino horns. They also another listed itself as Petrol Dealers, East Africa, and the types of goods and dealt in maize, haricot beans, posho Provision, Produce, Ration, Tobacco and services they offered circa 1960. beans, ivory, Persian carpets, Wattle Betelnuts. bark, cattle feeds and rhino horns. Other goods included maize bran, maize germ Sources: Songea, Tanganyika: Sundries, meal, and cattle bones. Cutlery, Hosiery, and Piece Goods. Mungai, Christine: 15 facts about the Indian diaspora in Africa: 25 June, Mtwara: A company that was a motor car 2015; https://www.weforum.org/ Tunduru, Tanganyika: General dealer also dealt in building materials, Hardware, Building materials, Arms mango poles, motor accessories, agenda/2015/06/15-facts-about-the- and Ammunition, Petrol and Oils, Piece insecticides tools, tyres, tubes and indian-diaspora-in-africa/ Goods, Cycles and Motor Spares. General batteries. They offered mechanical Merchants, Commission Agents, tea and works and ace welding. Trade Directory: Published by tobacco dealers and importers of sewing Mwanza, Tanganyika: This company Federation of Khoja Shia Ithnaasheri machines. listed themselves as cotton ginners, sisal Jamaats of Africa: Dar es Salaam,

88 Federation Samachar WAYSIDE WISDOM

Reflections on the Devastating Covid-19 Pandemic

As humanity continues to deal with the This understanding starts with looking onslaught of the Covid-19 pandemic, at what the Quran and the Prophet lives of everyone around the world (peace and blessings be upon him) say have changed. Many individuals are about these matters, and how we are to continuing to self-isolate, while others deal with them. are hospitalised or are in quarantine. As such, most countries have imposed Allah (SWT) tells us in multiple places partial or complete border closures in the Holy Quran that this life is a to foreign nationals. About 91% of the test… all of it. It is not Paradise for world’s population (about 7.1 billion a reason. It is not always easy for a people) live in countries with border reason. Unfortunately, so many of us restrictions, although a few countries go in and out of this world in a state of have chosen to open their borders after heedlessness and forgetfulness about August, 2020. our obligations on earth.

Tourism has plummeted worldwide and The Almighty tells us, “Every soul will airlines are grounded, with a loss of USD taste death. And We test you with evil 850 million to 1.1 billion. People are and with good as trial; and to Us you will exercising caution to keeping at least be returned” (Quran 21:35). six feet away from each other and most But whoever is ungrateful, surely my refrain from undertaking unnecessary When good occurs in our lives, this Lord is Self Sufficient, Most Generous. travel. Health Ministries worldwide is also a test which deserves an (Quran 27:40). continue to look into building up more appropriate response. God tells us of medical facilities and obtaining Personal Solomon (peace be upon him), “And The Covid-19 pandemic is a test from Protection Equipment for medical staff when [Solomon] saw it (wealth) placed the Almighty and should bring us as ell as arranging for more medical before him, he said, “This is from the closer to Allah (SWT). As a community equipment such as ventilators for the favour of my Lord to test me whether I we have done remarkably well with increasing number of people who are am grateful or ungrateful. And whoever online programmes, many of which are afflicted by the virus. is grateful, it is only for their own good. interactive. Interactive sessions enable Continued on page 88 Tanzania has had a dramatic turn for the better but has and remains vulnerable to the virus. Worldwide, meanwhile, in one month, from 10th November, 2020 to 10th December, 2020 the increase in the number of people inflicted, infections and deaths is alarming and the Trend Activity Graph displayed with this column reflects this.

At the time of writing this column, as of 10th December, 2020 the total number of people inflicted around the world is 69,231,555 people. Of these 19,670,351 are active virus cases. Up to 1,575,677 people have died from COVID-19 which includes some members of our community and excludes deaths that have not been reported.

Like everything else in our lives, we must base our understanding of events, and our reaction to them, throughout faith.

Federation Samachar 89 WAYSIDE WISDOM

Continued from page 87 participants to raise and get answers to the world around them can only see This pandemic has taught us that we their questions while the programme is chaos. Believers see an opportunity for need very little to live from. The virus on air. exercising tolerance, service and mercy. has also taught us the reality of life. We For them this is a time that offers an came into the world to lose everything. The Prophet (SAW) also said, “There opportunity to help rebuild lives that The more one lives, the more one loses. is no trouble that comes to a believer needed to be rebuilt with more time at First you lose your parents, followed by except that it removes some of his sins, home. close friends and slowly we lose our own mental and physical faculties. This is even if it is the pricking of a thorn.” mentioned in the Sura-e-Yaseen and as He also said, “How wonderful is the Every moment of life is a gift from Allah we age we become more vulnerable. situation of the believer; there is good (SWT). Before the Covid-19 pandemic for him in everything, and this applies did we appreciate our lives and all the The Covid-19 pandemic reminds us that only to a believer. If prosperity reaches blessings Allah (SWT) bestowed on us we are the creation of Allah (SWT) and him, he expresses gratitude to God, including good health? Probably yes, during these times we need to exercise and that is good for him; yet if adversity because we have been taught from our patience, be practical, introspect on the befalls him, he endures it patiently and Madrassa days to always thank the level of our faith and pray for the world that is good for him.” Almighty in good and bad times. But to recover and become a better place did we not almost start believing that to live in. We should not live in fear. Patience and strength are essential human beings have become so powerful Fear stimulates a future that makes while we ask Allah (SWT) to ease and invincible that the world could be living in the present a dark experience. the situation. Those who only view steered henceforth with technology We need to relax and appreciate what life through the lens of materialism, and that artificial intelligence would we have and live in the moment while following our routine supplications and and ignore the spiritual truths about transform the world? obligations, to the Almighty.

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