By: Alhaji Mohamed Wusha-Conteh
The Foulah Town Muslim Jamaat marked a significant milestone over the weekend, celebrating its 35th anniversary with its annual Maulid Nabie celebration, an event dedicated in honoring the birth of the Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be upon Him). The event, held at the Amaria School, attracted hundreds of Muslims from Foulah Town and surrounding areas.
The celebration commenced with a warm welcome from the Jamaat’s president, Haja Bilkisu Fouad Kamara, who reflected on the journey of the jamaat over the past three and a half decades. “Our jamaat started with just a handful of families, and today we stand united with over a hundred members at home and abroad, celebrating faith, friendship, and our shared values.” Haja Bilkisu stated.
Haja Bilkisu, expressed gratitude for the support they received at their 35th Maulud Nabi Celebration from their Imams, Naibs, Advisers, Adikalies, community members, Invited Groups, and well-wishers. She called for unity between the two women’s groups in Foulah town from one mosque and provided an overview of the Jamaat’s birth which has played a vital role in the spiritual and social development, and stressed that its 35-years legacy serves as a testament to members unwavering dedication to the values of Islam and community service.
Delivering her address, guest speaker 1, Haja Ambassador Alari Cole delivered an inspiring address on the topic of unity in Islam. She emphasized the crucial role that solidarity plays in the strength of the Muslim community quoting Sura Al-Imran verse 103. “Unity is not just an ideal in Islam; it is a mandate. We must come together to support one another, reflect the values of peace, and work towards a stronger, united Ummah,” she stated.
Haja Ambassador Cole stressed the significance of kindness and community service, emphasizing, the life of the Holy Prophet as an example fostering love and understanding among all people, regardless of their backgrounds”. She reiterated that in Islam, the dignity and dress code of Muslim women are highly valued, as they are seen as an integral to maintaining respect, modesty and a sense of spiritual and moral integrity.
In her remarks, guest speaker 2, Justice Bintu Alhadi highlighted the holistic approach that Islam advocates for physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. “Our faith teaches us that maintaining good health is a form of worship and a responsibility,” said Justice Alhadi. “Caring for our bodies allows us to serve Allah and fulfill our duties as His followers.”
Haja Justice Alhadi emphasized that in Islam health is considered a valuable and important blessings from Allah, maintaining that good health is seen as an essential part of a believer responsibility. She noted that Islam promotes a balanced approach to life, emphasizing moderation in all things which includes diet, exercise, sleep and mental wellbeing.
The program concluded with prayers for dead amongst their members, peace, health, and continued unity within the Muslim community. Throughout the day, attendees participated in various activities, including Buni Hybe (poetry praising the Holy Prophet), Islamic songs and discussions on the importance of following the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in today’s world as it showcased the rich heritage of the Muslim community Foulah Town.