CS Hon. Aden Duale, Jamia Chairman Mohamed Warfa (Right), Jamia Deputy Chairman Abdullatif Essajee (Second Left), Jamia Secretary General Abdulbari Hamid (Centre) Jamia’s 100 year Journey book author Ghalib Tamim (Left) during the launch of Jamia’s commemorative book

By CHURCHILL SIMIYU,
Reporter ,NAIROBI, KENYA.

In a grand celebration of its centennial, the historic Jamia Mosque Nairobi has unveiled a comprehensive book detailing its 100-year journey, cementing its legacy as a beacon of Islam in East Africa. The launch event, which also featured the rebranding of Horizon TV to Jamia TV, drew hundreds of faithful, community leaders, and government officials.

The commemorative book, titled , Jamia Mosque Nairobi 100-Year Journey, was authored by Ghalib Yusuf Tamim. It offers a meticulous account of the mosque’s history, from the laying of its foundation stone on September 7, 1925, to the completion of its construction in 1933. The publication explores the mosque’s early beginnings, unique architectural design, subsequent expansion, and its profound and enduring impact on the community.

Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, who graced the occasion, commended the mosque’s leadership for its pivotal role in the nation. “Jamia Mosque is the mother of all mosques in the country,” Duale stated. “I commend its leadership for their pivotal role in spreading Islam and for being at the forefront in championing the interests and aspirations of the Muslim community.”

He also lauded the mosque’s extensive humanitarian initiatives, noting their significant contribution to improving the lives of the less privileged.
A Legacy Forged in Stone and Faith.

In a poignant reflection, Jamia Mosque Committee Chairman Sheikh Mohammed Osman Warfa recounted the monumental effort behind the mosque’s construction. He described how building stones were imported from India, shipped to the port of Mombasa, and transported by rail to Nairobi.
“From the station, Indian railway workers carried each block on their shoulders to the construction site, where laborers worked under harsh colonial conditions and the constant threat of wild animals that roamed nearby,” Sheikh Warfa shared, painting a vivid picture of the founders’ dedication.
He reaffirmed the Committee’s commitment to continuing the mosque’s core mission of Da’wah (propagation of Islam) and preserving this hard-won legacy.

Author Ghalib Yusuf Tamim expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to undertake the project, emphasizing that the book is designed to serve as a lasting heritage for future generations. The book is now available for purchase at the mosque for KSh 1,500.

A New Chapter for Islamic Media.
Marking another milestone in its centennial year, the mosque also announced the rebranding of its television station, Horizon TV, to Jamia TV. The transition introduces a refreshed identity with a new logo, color scheme, and program lineup designed to reflect the station’s Islamic values more strongly.
Launched in 2017, the channel was established as the largest Muslim media project in East Africa. Cabinet Secretary Duale used the platform to urge scholars and leaders to leverage media like Jamia TV to guide the youth. “I call upon our Islamic scholars and community leaders to use media platforms to sensitize young people on the dangers of immoralities such as drug abuse,” he said.

Jamia TV Board Chairman Abdullatif Essajee stated that the rebrand introduces dynamic programming featuring spiritual, educational, and lifestyle content tailored to enrich viewers’ experiences in line with Islamic principles.

The event concluded with awards presented to several individuals in recognition of their exemplary service to Islam and the Muslim community, honoring current and former staff, committee members, and scholars. The dual celebration of a storied past and a forward-looking media rebrand underscores Jamia Mosque’s enduring role as a center of religious, educational, and social advancement.