By Mariam lanji Msah
May 17, 2025
Muslims gathered at the Jamia Mosque Nairobi’s Multipurpose Hall on Saturday for the screening of a documentary “Colonialism: Settler Colonialism” and a special reflection on the 77 years of the Nakba.
The documentary examined the lasting effects of Zionist settler colonialism in Palestine, tracing the forced displacement of Palestinians since 1948 and shedding light on the ongoing crises in Gaza and the West Bank.
Speaking during the screening, Sheikh Badru Jaafar called on Muslims to read and understand the origin of the issues facing the people of Palestine.
The event also featured an address by the Chairperson of voices for Palestine Ahmed Shariff, who urged the audience to support humanitarian efforts in Gaza.
He highlighted that over 137 surgeries have been successfully carried out inside Gaza over the past year through a South African hospital supported by the Al-Imdaad Foundation. Importantly, he noted that these life-saving procedures were made possible through funds donated by Kenyans via the Jamia Mosque Pay Bill number 150770, account name GAZA MEDICAL.
“We need to rise up and rise in a legal way,” Shariff said. “Islam does not condone violence. But when you see injustice, speak out. Advocate about it. It’s time to make a conscious decision.”
Shariff also stressed the spiritual dimension of solidarity, encouraging Muslims to make du’a (supplication) and incorporate Qunoot prayers for Gaza in their daily congregational worship, following the example set by Jamia Mosque Nairobi.
The event was held in collaboration with Horizon TV, the Jamia Mosque Committee, NAMLEF, Adams Mosque, Masjid Rahma, and several other partners. There were calls for the need to continue boycotting companies directly linked to or supporting the ongoing genocide in Palestine.
