President of Zanzibar and Chairman of the Revolutionary Council, Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi, has urged Muslims to protect unity, love and solidarity, warning that peaceful and morally upright communities depend on the collective responsibility of their members.
Dr Mwinyi said religious leaders and worshippers had an important role to play in strengthening social cohesion by promoting mutual respect, helping others and maintaining a culture of doing good.
He made the remarks yesterday during a thanksgiving night at Masjid Istiqaama in Ilala, Dar es Salaam, attended by government officials, religious leaders, worshippers and other guests.
Dr Mwinyi said thanksgiving was an important part of faith and a value that should continue to be reflected in people's daily lives.
He urged Muslims to translate their faith into actions that strengthen families and communities, including supporting one another and contributing to initiatives aimed at improving people's lives.
The President also paid tribute to the late Sheikh Ahmed Albadry, former chief imam of Masjid Istiqaama and the first Sheikh Mkuu of the Istiqaama Tanzania Association.
He said Sheikh Albadry had made a significant contribution to Muslim unity through religious education, leadership, worship and efforts to bring Muslims together.
Dr Mwinyi said the late Sheikh's legacy should encourage today's religious leaders and worshippers to continue promoting unity and strengthening institutions that serve the community.
He said Masjid Istiqaama had, during its 17 years, developed into more than a place of worship, becoming a centre for religious education, youth development, family strengthening and promotion of good morals.
The President urged religious leaders and worshippers to sustain the spirit of volunteerism, saying community development required contributions beyond financial support.
He said people could contribute through their time, knowledge, skills, resources and prayers, adding that every contribution towards building stronger communities deserved recognition.
Dr Mwinyi thanked the Istiqaama trustees, mosque and association leaders, religious leaders, government representatives and worshippers for their contribution to the institution and the thanksgiving event.
He said he would continue working with religious leaders and the Muslim community to promote unity, solidarity, good morals and development.
During the event, Dr Mwinyi received a special award recognising his contribution to community development. The award was presented by Masjid Istiqaama chairman, Sheikh Ali Suleiman.