The Africa Federation Archives Section serves as a timeless repository of our community’s history, an invaluable treasure of knowledge that resonates through the corridors of time. Within these archives, the stories of trials, tribulations, challenges, and some notable successes from the past come to life, offering a guiding light on our journey into the future.
With resolute dedication to this noble undertaking, the AFED Archives Section embarked on a mission to remind and educate the community, shedding light on the profound experiences that our brethren endured in Uganda. These expedient narratives not only inform our present but also inspire our path forward, creating a bridge between our history and our aspirations for the future.
Taking on the mission of enlightening the community, on September 28th, 2023, in the heart of Kampala, a historical Talk Show unfolded, bringing together a constellation of vibrant voices, memories and untold stories. The Panjo Uganda Talk Show gathered some distinguished panelists, namely Alhaj Riaz Datoo, Shahida Bai Alibhai, Alhaj Shabir Najafi, Dr. Asgarali Moledina, Dr. Mumtaz Kassam, and Alhaj Sibtain Merchant, who embarked on a journey through time, delving into the profound experiences of the Ugandan Khoja community. Their narratives traversed a wide range of topics, including the pre-exodus era, the expulsion in 1972, the exodus itself, post-exodus experiences, and the contemporary life in Uganda.
Hosted by the Africa Federation Archives Section, the Talk Show offered a platform for the Ugandan Khoja community to exchange their profound experiences and the wisdom they acquired, illuminating a chapter of history characterized by resilience and hope. In essence, this occasion provided our community with an invaluable chance to contemplate its historical voyage and envision its future.
The Talk Show commenced with the recitation from the verses of the Holy Qur’an by Dr. Abbasaley Abbas, who is the Sectional Secretary of the Africa Federation Archives Section. Thereafter, he emphasized the significance of both learning and safeguarding history, effectively laying the foundation for a deep exploration of the Ugandan Khoja community’s past and present. This was followed by an address by the Chairman of Africa Federation, Alhaj Amine Nassor who conveyed his appreciation to the Archives and Media Team for their unwavering dedication and stressed the vital role of comprehending and conserving history for the benefit of future generations.
The Talk Show was moderated by Br. Alihassan Kassam, who in his eloquent address, provided a poignant backdrop to the expulsion events in Uganda during the 1970s. He painted a vivid picture of the 90-day evacuation notice given to Ugandan Asians, a period marked by uncertainty and upheaval. Additionally, he paid tribute to the unsung heroes of that era, including individuals like Nassor Bhai Pardhan, Hassanali Bhai Suleiman, Khimji Bhanji, Mulla Haji Gulamhussein Ladha, Alibhai Jeraj, Mohammedali Ramji, and Habib Walji, and through his words, emphasized the collective strength and determination that carried the community through those trying times.
Commencing from the pre-exodus period, Riaz Bhai Datoo provided a deep understanding of the dynamic ambiance of the country in the 1950s and 1960s, brimming with life and bustling with activity until challenges arose when the government initiated a policy of nationalizing 60% of properties, including banks, which led to a split among the population. Riaz bhai also noted that only a small number of Khojas left before the expulsion, but the situation drastically changed post-expulsion when everyone was compelled to leave the country. Riaz Bhai’s story encapsulated a critical juncture in Uganda’s history, demonstrating how the country transitioned from a land of opportunity to one marked by political and economic turbulence. His account served as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by the Khoja community during those turbulent years and their unwavering determination to persevere through adversity.
Shahida Bai Alibhai harrowed through the events of January 1971, a time that remains etched in the collective memory of the Khoja community. It was a period when General Idi Amin Dada assumed power and promptly issued an order for the expulsion of British, Indian, and Pakistani passport holders. The audience were taken back to those grim days, as Shahida Bai’s narrative painted a stark and chilling picture of the insecurity, chaos, and violence that prevailed during that tumultuous period.
She gave the audience a heart-rending glimpse into the lives of those who, in the face of uncertainty and danger, had no choice but to abandon their cherished homes, valuable assets, and well-established lives. Shahida Bai’s account served as a reminder of the immense courage and resilience demonstrated by the Khoja community during those dark days, as they navigated the path of exile, leaving their beloved homeland and all they held dear.
This was followed by Shabir Bhai Najafi’s deeply moving address that revealed the positive outcomes that emerged from the challenging Ugandan exodus. Notably, the warm reception extended to the displaced Ugandan Khoja community by fellow community members in places like Peterborough, the United States of America, Canada, and beyond provided a lifeline to those uprooted from their homes. This collective embrace not only offered solace but also catalyzed the process of rebuilding their lives.
Shabir Bhai’s account illuminated the remarkable journey of renewal undertaken by the displaced Khoja community. Adapting to foreign cultures and languages, children pursued education in unfamiliar settings, while parents took on multiple jobs to establish themselves in new homes. The dispersion of the Khoja community across the globe resulted in the establishment of new religious and cultural institutions, enriching the community’s heritage. Mosques like Hujjat became symbols of faith and cultural preservation, echoing the enduring spirit and unity of the Khoja community. Despite forced displacement, they not only survived but thrived, leaving an enduring legacy of resilience and unity.
Dr. Asgarali Moledina played a vital role in repossessing properties and revitalizing the Khoja community in Kampala. In his vivid account, Dr. Moledina narrated his arrival in Uganda in 1980 which culminated with successful entrepreneurial ventures in Uganda’s thriving environment. Eager to contribute to the community’s well-being, he encountered unexpected rent challenges for properties in Kampala.
Confronting this obstacle, Dr. Moledina recollected how he engaged in a collaborative effort and sought guidance from the then AFED Chairman Alhaj Habib Bhai Mulji and thereafter worked with Dr. Mumtaz Bai Kassam to repossess all the properties of fellow Khojas in Kampala. This collaboration was instrumental in the community’s journey to recover lost properties from the expulsion era and slowly families started moving back. His story served as a reminder that the reclamation of property is not merely about land and assets; it’s about reclaiming a sense of belonging, cultural heritage, and community identity.
Dr. Mumtaz Kassam played a pivotal role in the recovery and revitalization of properties, and when she addressed the audience, she shed light on her substantial contributions to this crucial endeavor. Her remarkable journey began in 1986 when she returned to Uganda out of curiosity and took up a position at a law firm. Under the guidance of Dr. Moledina, she embarked on the challenging task of assisting in reclaiming properties belonging to members of the Khoja Community. This endeavour involved numerous obstacles, including the arduous task of gathering essential data and information.
Driven by her passion, curiosity, and a deep desire to assist her community, Dr. Mumtaz Kassam committed herself wholeheartedly to the cause. Her dedication led her to gain valuable experience while helping the members regain their assets. Despite facing threats along the way, she persevered, and her close collaboration with the government facilitated not only the property repossession but also helped numerous Khojas acquire citizenship.
Sibtain Bhai Merchant addressed the contemporary life in Uganda, particularly in the aftermath of the exodus, and he accentuated the flourishing business opportunities emerging in the region. Taking up the Kampala Jamaat chairmanship in 2020, his commitment to the community has been a lifelong journey, commencing at a young age. His relentless efforts have been directed at elevating the community through advocacy for effective leadership, enhancements in educational institutions, community expansion, and strengthening its financial foundations. Working in close collaboration with respected community elders, who provided crucial support during his early leadership journey, he successfully achieved important goals, such as increasing youth involvement, initiating income-generating projects, and implementing enriching religious programs. Sibtain Bhai’s advice for those considering business prospects in the community is encouraging, as he highlights its rapid growth and favorable investment conditions, which he believes are currently in a very stable and balanced state.
The Panjo Uganda Talk Show unveiled a captivating chapter in the history of the Ugandan Khoja community, a narrative characterized by resilience, unity, and rejuvenation. In the Talk Show’s closing moments, Br. Alihassan Kassam extended gratitude to both the panelists and the attendees, highlighting the enduring bond between the Khoja community and Uganda, often referred to as the “Pearl of Africa.” The tale of the Khoja community in Uganda serves as a testament to the enduring strength of the community and unwavering faith and resilience in the face of adversity. It is a narrative that will undoubtedly continue to inspire generations to come.
The Archive Sub Section Team extends its profound gratitude to the Africa Federation Office Bearers, AFED Secretariat, and the Kampala Jamaat for their invaluable support towards the Panjo Uganda Talk Show. We would also like to thank our esteemed panelists for sharing their unique insights and personal experiences with the community. Lastly, we wish to convey our deep appreciation to the audience, both those present in person and those who joined the discussions online, for their wholehearted engagement during the Talk Show.
Lastly, we humbly beseech Almighty Allah (SWT) to shower His mercy upon the departed souls of the members of the Uganda Jamaats, and we request a recitation of Sura-e-Fateha for them and all Marhumeen.
This tale of the community in Uganda is not a story that ends here; it’s an ongoing, living narrative that continues to unfold. We remain open to receiving more insights and information on the history of Uganda, and we encourage our readers to actively participate in this collective endeavor by reaching out, and sharing your knowledge to further enrich our understanding of Uganda’s diverse and remarkable past.
To learn more and contribute to this rich history, please refer to the attached poster for additional details.
The Panjo Uganda Talk Show can be viewed online on the link below:
https://www.youtube.com/live/-XDorwfFTQs?si=gQo7v994ntoJJNtR
SECRETARIAT
ARCHIVES SECTION OF THE AFRICA FEDERATION
Date: 3rd November 2023 (18th Rabiul Aakhir 1445 A.H.)