The life journey of Murabbi Abdulhussein began on the picturesque island of Zanzibar in 1901, where he laid the foundation for his educational pursuits, attending primary school and nurturing the seeds of his future ambitions. In 1913, he embarked on a significant move, transitioning to the bustling city of Mombasa.
Within just two years of his relocation to Mombasa, Murabbi Abdulhussein embarked on a remarkable entrepreneurial journey, founding the renowned A H Nurmohamed & Co Ltd. This venture would go on to flourish, eventually expanding with multiple branches across East Africa.
However, Murabbi Abdulhussein’s journey was not confined to business endeavors; it was just the beginning. In 1922, he took his first steps into leadership, and in 1926, he entered the realm of public community service. His dedication was evident as he devoted an impressive 13 years to serving as an executive member in both the Indian National Congress and the Indian Association. His leadership qualities and unwavering commitment led to him assuming the position of Honorary Secretary in both organizations for two years.
In his ardent quest to serve the Indian community in Mombasa, Alhaj Abdulhussein took on the role of President of the Indian Association, a position he held until 1948. His commitment to public service extended further, encompassing his membership on the Mombasa Municipal Board from 1939 to 1955, including a term as Vice-President in 1950-1951. His influence extended to the Kenya Board of Commerce & Industry for Copra and Coconut Oil production from 1945 to 1948. Notably, he achieved the prestigious position of President of the Federation of Chambers of Commerce of Eastern Africa from 1948 to 1950, marking a significant milestone in his illustrious career.
Beyond his public service and leadership, Murabbi Abdulhussein was a devoted family man. He and his wife, Kulsumbai, were blessed with four sons and seven daughters: Sultan, Mohamedjaffer, Mohamedraza, Mohamedtaki, Marziya Moledina, Roshan Moledina, Shirin Mushtaq Bandali, Nargis Mohamedali Hansraj, Mariam Anver Rahim, Sakina Anver Datoo and Sherbanu Mohamedali Gulamhussein.
After dedicating a remarkable 16 years to the Municipal Council, Murabbi Abdulhussein retired due to health concerns. Nevertheless, his dedication to service remained undiminished. He assumed the role of President of the Pandya Memorial Society and continued to serve on the executive committee of various organizations, including the Coast Subsidiary Hotel, Kenya Maize Marketing Board, East African Tourist Travel Association, and the Board of Governors of the Mombasa Muslim Institute.
In 1958, he received the esteemed appointment as a member of the Kenya Legislative Council, followed by a role in the Kenya Council of State in 1960. His contributions extended to the field of education, as he served on the Education Board of Mombasa Jamaat.
Murabbi Abdulhussein’s legacy is characterized by an exceptional record of community service. He held the position of President of the Federation of Khoja Shia IthnaAsheri Jamaats of Africa from 1946 to 1949 and again from 1952 to 1958. His tireless efforts in uniting the community and fostering progress are widely recognized. In acknowledgment of his noble and remarkable service, he was granted an honorary membership of the Council. During his first term, he achieved significant milestones such as conducting a community census, introducing Birth and Marriage Certificates issued by the Council, providing educational grants and scholarships for higher education, and facilitating the acquisition of higher religious education through grants for scholars in Tabligh.
As the wisdom of this esteemed personality echoes through the corridors of time, connecting continents and weaving threads of experience into the fabric of history, Sultan, the son of Murabbi Abdulhussein, recounts a remarkable chapter in his life—a journey to China. Murabbi Abdulhussein approached a senior Khoja Ismaili businessman in Mombasa, Hassanali Mussa Jetha, a man with two sons named Fatheali and Sadru with a request to take Sultan along to the Trade Fair in Canton, China, with the belief that this expedition would furnish him with invaluable experiences for the future.
Their journey took them to China during the era when Chairman Mao led the Communist Party, and Zhou Enlai served as the Prime Minister. After concluding their participation in the trade fair, they traveled to Beijing, previously known as Peking, on October 20, 1964 to celebrate Kenyatta Day at the Kenyan embassy. Henry Mulie, an Oxford graduate, served as the ambassador at that time. The embassy staff, being Muslims, suggested visiting a nearby mosque. During the visit, another notable aspect revealed the enduring existence of Islam in China. Even at that time, many hotels in China offered meals tailored for Muslims.
Reflecting on his visit to China, Murabbi Abdulhussein’s son Sultan drew parallels with the formation of the Alibhai Panju Jaffery School in Mombasa. This school, established during colonial times, received grants from the British government, with the exception of the assembly hall construction, which was deemed to be non-educational. The assembly hall featured a sign above its stage bearing a saying from the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.w), stating, “It is obligatory on all Muslims, male and female, to seek knowledge.” This sign highlighted the importance of education in the Muslim community, a value that had driven Muslims to seek knowledge even in far-flung places like China centuries ago.
As we reflect on Murabbi Abdulhussein’s multi-faceted role – as an entrepreneur, community leader and family man – we recognize the profound impact he had on shaping the social, economic, and educational aspects of the community and humanity at large. His demise on 1st August 1967 at the age of 66 in Karachi marked the end of an era, but his legacy lives on leaving behind a rich tapestry of service, leadership, and devotion that continues to inspire generations to come. May Allah (SWT) grant Murabbi Abdulhussein a high station in the proximity of Ahlulbayt (AS), where he is enveloped in Allah’s (SWT) bountiful mercy and grace. Let us remember him and all other Marhumeen with Sura-e-Fateha.
Article Source: Archives Secretariat and Alhaj Sultan Abdulhussein Nurmohamed.
SECRETARIAT
ARCHIVES SECTION OF THE AFRICA FEDERATION
17th November 2023 (3rd Jamadi ul Awwal 1445 A.H.)