Mwinyi calls for support to needy

ZANZIBAR: ZANZIBAR President, Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi, has called on faithful to support the needy and seek God’s forgiveness during the Holy Month of Ramadan.

Addressing worshippers at the International Qur’an Recitation Competition held at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam, Dr Mwinyi emphasised that assisting those in need is a fundamental teaching of the Holy Qur’an.

“My fellow Muslims, we are now in the second tenth of the Holy Month of Ramadan. Let us use this time to sincerely ask for forgiveness for any mistakes we have made, intentionally or unintentionally,” he urged.

He further reminded believers to uphold the Islamic tradition of supporting one another during Ramadan, ensuring the less fortunate are comforted during this sacred period.

The Quran competition, organised by the Al-Hikma Foundation, coincided with Ramadan, the month in which the Holy Quran was revealed.

Dr Mwinyi encouraged all Muslims to continue reading the Quran with the goal of strengthening their faith and upholding Islamic teachings.

He also urged parents and guardians to motivate their children to engage in Quranic studies to prepare future faith leaders, such as Sheikhs.

Dr Mwinyi commended the Al-Hikma Foundation for organising the prestigious competition, which attracted participants from different continents, including Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, North America and South America.

He noted that the event showcased Tanzania’s commitment to religious freedom and unity.

“Today, the entire world has witnessed participants beautifully reciting the Holy Quran,” he said.

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Highlighting the competition’s growth, Dr Mwinyi recalled that it started more than 20 years ago in Temeke, Dar es Salaam, before expanding to ward, regional, national, East African and continental levels.

Given its global reach, he suggested renaming it “The Greatest Inter-continental Holy Quran Competition” to reflect its broad scope. He praised all participants for demonstrating their dedication and adherence to Quranic teachings, showcasing their commitment to learning and spiritual growth.

Tanzania’s Mufti and Chief Sheikh, Dr Abubakar Zubeir, also commended the Al-Hikma Foundation and all those involved in organising the event.

“I applaud them for elevating the Quran and raising Tanzania’s profile internationally,” Dr Zubeir said, adding that the event significantly boosted Tanzania’s visibility on regional, continental and global stages.

Chairperson of the Central Organising Committee of the International Quran Recitation Competition and Al-Hikma Foundation Director, Mr Nurdin Kishiki, stated that this year’s competition marked its 25th edition since its inception in 2000.

He revealed that the 2025 competition featured 17 contenders from various countries, including Tanzania, Russia, the United Kingdom (UK), Libya, the United States (USA) and Kenya.

Mr Kishiki noted that the event attracted a massive turnout, with Benjamin Mkapa Stadium filled to its capacity by 7:40am.

He emphasised that the Allah elevates his followers both in this world and in paradise through the teachings of the Quran.