Ref: AFED/PR/22/23 Date: December 28, 2023
In a grand celebration of its 160-year history, the Mombasa Jamaat community extended a warm invitation to members from around the world to come together in Mombasa to celebrate this significant milestone. The Festival was named “Tukutane” meaning let’s get together – which aptly encapsulated the spirit of the event.
The Africa Federation Chairman Alhaj Amine Nassor and the Vice Chairman Alhaj Aunali Khalfan attended the celebrations which were held from Friday 20th October to Saturday 21st October 2023. Also, in attendance were immediate past President of World Federation and AFED Trustee of Tanzania, Alhaj Anwarali Dharamsi, immediate past Chairman of Africa Federation and AFED Trustee of Uganda, Alhaj Shabir Najafi and AFED Sports Council Chairman, Alhaj Fazleali Kassam. They were joined in Mombasa by AFED Trustee of Kenya, Alhaj Sajjad Rashid, AFED Electoral Commissioner, Alhaj Gulamabbas Khaku, AFED CBB Chairman, Alhaj Mohamed Hemani and AFED AFTAB Chairman, Alhaj Sajjad Walji.
The opening of the new modern Jaffery Sports Club was held on 20th October afternoon and was graced by many distinguished guests. The club building has been generously donated by the Jaffer Foundation of Mombasa and Mrs. Zarin Naushad Merali in memory of her late husband Dr. Naushad Merali. The unveiling of the plaque was done by Mrs. Zarin Merali and Mrs. Rehana Mohamed Jaffer.
Such contributions play an essential role in bringing communities together, promoting sports, and preserving the legacies of remarkable individuals like late Dr. Naushad Merali. The Jaffery Sports Club is now poised to serve as a hub for sporting activities and community engagement in his memory.
A grand gala dinner was held in the evening of the same day to celebrate the 160th Anniversary of Mombasa Jamaat. After an inspiring talk by Sheikh Nuru Mohamed, the Vice Chairman of Mombasa Jamaat and the convener of the Tukutane Festival Alhaj Mohamedraza Rashid welcomed all the guests and gave a brief overview of the Mombasa Jamaat’s remarkable achievements over the past century and a half. Key milestones that were celebrated include:
160 Years of Mombasa Jamaat: The Mombasa Jamaat marks its 160th anniversary, a testament to its enduring presence and contributions to the community.
100 Years of Jaffery Sports Club: The Mombasa community is indeed blessed with visionary leaders who, a century ago, recognized the need for a sports facility, leading to the establishment of the Jaffery Sports Club. A century of sporting excellence and community engagement is celebrated at the new Jaffery Sports Club, showcasing the importance of physical activity and camaraderie.
75 Years of Faize Husseini (now Jaffery Welfare): In a commitment to ensuring the welfare of all its members, especially the underprivileged, Faize Husseini was formed 75 years ago. The community reflects on its commitment to social welfare and support, with Faize Husseini’s legacy now continuing as Jaffery Welfare.
75 Years of Jaffery Schools (now Jaffery Academy): 75 years ago, leaders emphasized the importance of education, resulting in the establishment of Alibhai Panju School, now known as Jaffery Academy and Jaffery Nursery and Primary.
Mohamedraza bhai highlighted that under the dynamic stewardship of Chairman Alhaj Dr. Mohamed H. Jaffer, the Jamaat Development Committee (JDC) has addressed critical community needs, including security, healthcare, economic empowerment, and housing. This has led to a threefold increase in community assets and the initiation of numerous projects. The Jaffery Complex currently comprises of:
- Religious section: a Mosque, Imambargha, Madressah, Aalim quarters and ghusalkhana.
- Housing section: 52 3-bedroom apartments, 20 4-bedroom apartments, 12 studio apartments serving as Bewakhana and 12 studio apartments serving as Musafirkhana.
He briefly mentioned about the ongoing project of Jaffery Hospital in Old Town Mombasa which is envisioned to be a significant facility to cater to the health needs of the community. Furthermore, the JDC has ambitious plans on the horizon, including the development of commercial structures and specialized apartments for the diaspora, assuring sustained growth and prosperity.
Concise presentations on the history and achievements as well as challenges were made by various section heads including Alhaj Masumali Meghji, who serves as the Head of the Education Section, Alhaj Riyaz Fazel, responsible for the Faize/Welfare Section, Alhaj Asaf Gulamhussein, the Head of the Jaffery Sports Club and Alhaj Mustafa Haji, who heads the Funeral Committee. Following these presentations Mombasa Jamaat Chairman Alhaj Dr. Mohamed Jaffer and Africa Federation Chairman Alhaj Amine Nassor jointly inaugurated a new website for the Jaffery Sports Club.
This was followed by short speeches by Alhaj Shabir Najafi, the immediate past Chairman of the Africa Federation, and Alhaj Amine Nassor, the Chairman of the Africa Federation.
In his address, the Mombasa Jamaat Chairman Alhaj Dr. Mohamed Jaffer expressed that this particular moment stands as one of his proudest. He took the opportunity to reflect on the journey from the inception of the capital projects, shedding light on the challenges faced and the notable achievements attained. He extended his heartfelt gratitude to the generous donors for their unwavering support and encouragement. Additionally, Alhaj Dr. Mohamed Jaffer made the significant announcement of his retirement, having successfully realized his goals and vision. In making this significant announcement, he conveyed his assurance to the community that despite stepping back from his current role, his commitment and support for the community will persist.
A short appreciation award ceremony then followed, whereby the Mombasa Jamaat appreciated the donors and well-wishers.
In a poignant tribute, Africa Federation presented a posthumous citation to Saida bai Sajjad Rashid in appreciation of her selfless and dedicated services to the community. Her extraordinary willingness to serve beyond borders demonstrated her unwavering commitment to serving a wider community, and her life stands as a testament to the unyielding dedication to uplifting and empowering those in her midst. We pray to Allah (SWT) to elevate her status and be amongst those who continuously receive His mercy and grace, Ameen.
Furthermore, Africa Federation presented a citation and plaque to the Mombasa Jamaat to recognize their 160-year journey, underscoring the community’s rich history and contributions.
Events like the “Tukutane” Festival provide a vital platform for community members to unite, celebrating their shared heritage and forging stronger bonds. They not only honour the rich past but also serve as a beacon, inspiring hope for a bright and harmonious future. The 160-year history of the Mombasa Jamaat community stands as a testament to resilience, unity, and remarkable achievements.
SECRETARIAT