Nyali religious leaders launch Islamic Musabaqah to reinforce youth morals in Mombasa
The event brought together around 200 imams, ustadhs, and Islamic educators from 55 mosques and 58 madrasas across the constituency to discuss ways of fostering faith, discipline, and community cohesion.
Religious leaders in Nyali Constituency have launched an Islamic Musabaqah aimed at reinforcing moral and religious values among young people, responding to growing concern over rising social vices and ethical deterioration in the area.
The event brought together around 200 imams, ustadhs, and Islamic educators from 55 mosques and 58 madrasas across the constituency to discuss ways of fostering faith, discipline, and community cohesion.
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Representatives from key institutions, including the Council of Imams and Preachers of Kenya (CIPK), were also in attendance.
Speaking at the gathering, Ustadh Salim Said Hussein of Madrasa Khushui stressed the importance of sustained collaboration among religious leaders and institutions to ensure Islamic teachings are preserved for future generations.
“We must take all measures to safeguard our religion. Our youth require strong Islamic guidance, and foundations such as the Elkana Jacob Foundation need to work hand in hand with other stakeholders to uphold cultural and religious values,” he said.
Chairperson of Muungano wa Walimu Nyali Constituency and Imam at Masjid Ijaba in Maweni, Ziwa la Ng’ombe Ward, Aula Hamisi Aula, echoing similar concerns, warned that the influence of religious leadership is gradually diminishing.
“Our role as spiritual guides is weakening. It is essential that we return to our core teachings and reassert our responsibility to lead the community,” he said.
The Islamic Musabaqah, a Qur’an and Islamic knowledge competition targeting youth, is scheduled to begin in mid-January 2026 and run through the holy month of Ramadan.
Organisers say the initiative aims to strengthen Islamic education, discipline, and ethical conduct among young people.
Ustadh Khatib Salim Swaleh Wayu Odha of Ziwa la Ng’ombe Ward highlighted that the programme has gained new momentum despite initial setbacks.
“We shared this vision with many people, but received limited support. Engagement with the Elkana Jacob Foundation changed that, as they embraced the idea. Together, we are determined to see it succeed,” he said.
The founder of the Elkana Jacob Foundation emphasised that religion remains central to social stability and personal development.
Jacob reaffirmed his commitment to working alongside Islamic leaders and other faith groups to promote peace, education, and ethical values in Nyali.
He also expressed concern over incidents of gender-based violence and abuse, urging closer cooperation between religious leaders and security agencies to protect vulnerable community members.
“These issues are alarming. This forum was convened to ensure religious leaders speak with a united voice and work with authorities to tackle such challenges effectively,” he said.
The Islamic Musabaqah will take place across Nyali’s five wards of Kongowea, Frere Town, Mkomani, Kadzandani, and Ziwa la Ng’ombe. Organisers are hopeful that it will help nurture responsible, morally grounded youth in the constituency.
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