By CHURCHILL SIMIYU
Reporter, NAIROBI, Kenya.
The Secretary-General of Jamia Mosque Nairobi, AbdulBari Hamid, has been honoured with a National Hero Award and Certificate of Recognition by the National Heroes Council, acting on behalf of President William Ruto, for his exceptional contributions to humanitarian work and national development.
The award was presented on Tuesday by Charles Wambia, CEO of the National Heroes Council, at the Jamia Mosque Multipurpose Hall. The ceremony drew members of the Jamia community and other prominent figures from Nairobi’s Muslim community, marking a significant moment of pride for both the mosque and its wider constituency.
Mr. Hamid was among 184 Kenyans recognised during the 2025 Mashujaa Day celebrations in Kitui County for their distinguished service in promoting national development, humanitarian initiatives, and community empowerment.
The National Heroes Council commended Mr. Hamid for his longstanding commitment to public service, highlighting his leadership in humanitarian projects that have positively impacted vulnerable communities. Under his stewardship, Jamia Mosque Nairobi has implemented initiatives including the provision of housing for displaced families, donation of wheelchairs for persons with disabilities, and distribution of food and medical aid to those in need.
During the event, Mr. Wambia lauded Mr. Hamid for his dedication to serving marginalized groups and noted that the Council remains committed to recognising Kenyans whose work creates lasting positive change across the country. He emphasized that such recognition should reach all levels of society, including grassroots communities.
Jamia Mosque Committee Chairman, Sheikh Muhammad Warfa, described the award as a shared honour, underscoring that it reflects not only Mr. Hamid’s leadership but also the collective effort of the mosque’s staff and volunteers. He expressed gratitude to the National Heroes Council for acknowledging the mosque’s ongoing contributions to society.
In his remarks, Mr. Hamid, visibly humbled, dedicated the award to the entire Jamia Mosque family, recognising the teamwork and commitment of staff, leadership, and volunteers who support community-based initiatives. He stressed that the recognition symbolises the joint efforts of everyone working to serve humanity.

The ceremony was attended by senior mosque officials, including Deputy Chairman Abdullatif Essajee, Treasurer Billow Kerrow, Deputy Treasurer Khider Farouk Adam, Committee Member Abdulhamid Slatch, and Imam Sheikh Jamaluddin Osman, among others.

The honour not only celebrates Mr. Hamid’s personal achievements but also highlights Jamia Mosque’s century-long legacy as a pillar of faith, compassion, and community service in Kenya.