Zanzibar President Dr. Hussein Ali Mwinyi has donated Sh200 million to support the expansion of the Irshaad Islamic Centre in Lushoto, Tanga Region, after responding positively to a request made by Lushoto MP and Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office (Regional Administration and Local Government), Prof. Riziki Shemdoe.
The funds will support key development projects at the centre, including upgrading the vocational training college, establishing a modern agricultural garden, constructing a fully equipped madrasa, building teachers’ houses, a guest house for visitors, a health facility, and a modern hall for education and community activities.
The commitment was announced on July 5, 2026, during Maulid celebrations marking the birth of Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W), held at the Irshaad Islamic Centre in Lushoto.
The event was organised by Sheikh Sharrif Hussein Ahmad Badawiyy and brought together religious leaders, government officials, and residents, with President Mwinyi serving as the guest of honour.
During the event, Dr. Mwinyi also accepted a request to serve as patron of the Irshaad Islamic Centre, pledging continued support and collaboration with stakeholders to strengthen the institution as a centre for quality education and moral guidance.
He further approved a request to name the planned garden within the vocational training college after the late former President Ali Hassan Mwinyi, in recognition of his contribution to national development and his support for the centre during his lifetime.
In addition to the presidential pledge, several leaders contributed to the development initiative, bringing total donations to Sh248 million. Prof. Shemdoe contributed Sh20 million, Tanga Regional Commissioner Batilda Burian Sh5 million, Morogoro Regional Commissioner Adam Malima Sh5 million, Bumbuli MP Eng. Ramadhani Hamza Sh5 million, CCM Tanga Regional Chairperson Rajab Abdallah Sh3 million, and East African Legislative Assembly MP Dr. Abdullah Makame Sh5 million.
Speaking after the event, Prof. Shemdoe thanked President Mwinyi for accepting the request, saying the support will significantly improve education standards, expand opportunities, and strengthen social services provided by the centre, which continues to play an important role in youth development in Lushoto and surrounding areas.
Residents and leaders who attended the ceremony also welcomed the gesture, saying the investment will leave a lasting impact on education, skills development, and community welfare for generations to come.
