Ref: AFED/PR/2013/75
I shall begin with a verse 2:156 from Sûrah Al Baqarah, of Holy Qur’an.
Who, when a misfortune overtakes them, say: “Surely we belong to Allah and indeed to Him shall we return”.
I wish to convey my heartfelt condolences to the People of Tanzania and members of our community in Dar-es-Salaam on the tragic accident caused by the collapse of the 16-storey building under construction adjacent to the KSI Jamaat Mosque in Dar es Salaam which occurred in the early hours of Friday, 29th March 2013 – trapping a number of people and some children who at the time of the collapse of the building were playing in the Mosque/Imambara compound.
With a heavy heart, I extend on behalf of the Africa Federation office bearers, trustees, councillors and on my own behalf our deepest condolences and sympathies to the parents, families and friends of all those who lost their lives in this catastrophe.
Whilst it is very difficult and painful for the parents and families to comprehend the tragic loss of their dear ones, it is at times such as this we must reflect towards Allah’s (SWT) mercy and grace. Allah (SWT) says: “Be sure we shall test you with something of fear and hunger, some loss in goods, lives and the fruits (of your toil) but give glad tidings to those who patiently persevere. Those who, when misfortune strikes them, say: ‘Indeed we belong to Allah and to Him is our return. Those are the ones upon whom are blessings and mercy from their Lord and it is those who are rightly guided”. [Holy Qur’an, Sûrah al-Baqarah: 2:155]
I was deeply moved to see so many communities, on hearing about the accident, coming out immediately in big numbers to join hands with our Jamaat and the volunteers in the search and rescue work.
I would like to put on record my sincere appreciation and thanks to the Regional Federations, Institutions, Organizations, Jamaats and individuals who have sent to us their messages which have been of great encouragement and has given us more strength during this difficult time.
I pray to Allah (S.W.T.) to shower His choicest blessings and mercy unto all members of our community and to all the peace-loving people in all parts of the world. Let us also pray to Allah (S.W.T.) with the Wasilah of our Aeema-e-Tahireen (A.S.) for perseverance, courage and steadfastness at this crucial time. Ameen.
With Salaams and Dua’as,
Anwarali R. Dharamsi
CHAIRMAN
