President Samia Suluhu Hassan has called on Tanzanian worshippers across religious denominations to utilize places of worship for spiritual development, not as grounds for disruption and conflict.
She emphasized that houses of worship should bring unity and peace, helping believers grow in faith.
Speaking in Morogoro during the foundation stone-laying ceremony for the Alghaith Mosque, organized by The Islamic Foundation, President Samia reminded the congregation that the primary purpose of religious centers is to deepen faith and strengthen bonds among worshippers, not to become sources of division.
“These places of worship should unite us in service to God, not divide us,” President Samia stated. “They should remain sacred spaces that encourage harmony, where we come together to worship, seek blessings, and promote goodwill.”
She also urged parents, especially mothers, to be more present in raising their children, as neglect in parental guidance often leads to social challenges among the youth.
Call for Active Parental Involvement
President Samia noted the increasing tendency among some parents to rely on fathers to discipline children, a practice she cautioned against. She urged mothers to take an active role in guiding children with kindness and understanding, rather than fear.
“When a child misbehaves, instead of sitting them down for guidance, some mothers immediately threaten them, saying, ‘Just wait until your father gets home.’ Why rely on fear?” President Samia asked. “Instead, engage with your children directly and help them understand right from wrong with compassion.”
She stressed the importance of nurturing children in a way that aligns with moral values and faith, calling it essential for building a morally upright society.
Importance of Madrasa Education and Community Contributions
President Samia also highlighted the need to establish more Madrasa schools to provide children with religious and moral education, creating a future generation grounded in ethics and spirituality.
She commended The Islamic Foundation for its role in serving the community and encouraged the organization to continue its efforts, particularly in areas like health, education, and access to clean water. “Water is life, and a healthy community is crucial for the nation’s progress,” she said, underscoring the foundation’s contributions as impactful and essential.
Religious Institutions as Pillars of Peace
Home Affairs Minister Hamad Masauni also addressed the audience, emphasizing the government’s commitment to maintaining peace and security. He recognized religious institutions as key partners in promoting national stability. Masauni cautioned against the influence of politicians who, particularly during election periods, may incite unrest and provoke disturbances.
He urged citizens to remain vigilant and avoid being drawn into divisive actions that compromise the nation’s peace.
The Alghaith Mosque: A Landmark Project
Arif Nahad, President of The Islamic Foundation, provided an update on the Alghaith Mosque project. Launched in 2021, the mosque’s construction is now 80% complete and is expected to cost approximately 7 billion shillings.
Once finished, the mosque will accommodate 3,000 worshippers and feature various facilities, including a modern library, resting quarters for religious leaders, funeral preparation services, and Madrasa classrooms.
Nahad shared that The Islamic Foundation has successfully built over 1,600 mosques across Tanzania, serving communities on the mainland and Zanzibar, with approximately 80,000 students attending Madrasa classes in these locations. Additionally, the foundation has provided access to clean and safe water by digging over 3,000 wells in different regions, significantly benefiting local communities.
Through these initiatives, The Islamic Foundation continues to play a pivotal role in uplifting communities, contributing to both spiritual and social welfare across Tanzania.
