NAIROBI JUBILEE DIDAR REGISTRATION: please email your passport number and date of birth to [email protected]
Kenya Dates: 12 - 16 August
Possible Didar date: 15 August
<A href="http://www.ismaili.net/goldenjubilee/In ... pdf">Kenya Darbar Form</A>
KENYA Didar dates, events and testimonies
http://www.sunwords.com/2007/08/12/a-un ... e-network/
A unique man and his unique network
Posted in Sunday Nation by Sunny Bindra His Highness the Aga Khan’s 50th anniversary celebrations came to Kenya this week. He is marking his accession to spiritual leadership of the Ismaili Muslim community, and has chosen to commemorate much of this milestone here in Kenya. We should return the gesture by understanding the unique set of institutions that this leader has developed during his 50 years.
Unique they are, for the umbrella body - Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) - manages to span commercial, social and cultural institutions. The individual entities within the network include hard-nosed business enterprises in many sectors, including media, telephony, hospitality, power generation, financial services, manufacturing and agro-processing - but also development agencies whose only function is to help the disadvantaged achieve a measure of self-reliance.
The Aga Khan is in many ways an enigma: a jet-setter who is also spiritual leader to millions of faithful Muslims; a business titan who partners with private equity groups; a man who races horses and also worries deeply about world poverty. And a leader who inspires extraordinary voluntary action in his people.
I have worked in an advisory capacity in various parts of the network in recent years, and from my up-close vantage point I have noticed that there is a great deal for the rest of us to learn about combining business with social action.
AKDN has a unique purpose: it is “a contemporary endeavour to raise the social conscience of humanity through institutional action.” It is in the “institutional action” part of that statement that the rubber meets the road. Many of us, at community or individual level, profess to have similarly noble aims in life; not many of us can organise a network of agencies spanning 29 countries that delivers real results on the ground, and makes a difference to the lives of some of the poorest people in Africa and Asia. Not many of us can run cutting-edge businesses and development agencies - and bring the same managerial standards to both arenas.
The Aga Khan spent much of his childhood in Kenya, and we are clearly close to his heart. AKDN has assets approaching Sh. 40 billion here, and employs more than 10,000 people. It is clearly a long-term partner, having been in the region for more than 100 years; its first operation was a one-room community school in Zanzibar, opened in 1905.
Today the words ‘Aga Khan’ are part of Kenyans’ ordinary discourse, attached as they are to hospitals, educational institutions, and community projects across the land. This seemingly hotchpotch collection, when examined closely, reveals common underpinnings: managerial discipline; immense emphasis on ethics; and a strong pressure from the top to be self-reliant and self-sustaining.
Much of this achievement is due to the nature of the leader. Senior Kenyan executives who interact with the Aga Khan will tell you that he possesses a formidable business brain, and invariably takes a long view of all the activities he initiates. This is a spiritual leader with a difference.
What is intriguing is that it could all have been very different. The Aga Khan is reputedly one of the world’s richest men, controlling vast resources. He was born into this position, and many in his place might have settled for a life of indolent luxury. Some criticise him for being a spiritual leader who lives the life of a rich man. But what gives the Aga Khan the acknowledged drive and energy that made him build a path-breaking international network?
One answer lies in his refreshingly thoughtful views on Islam - a religion that has found itself immersed in controversy and violence in recent years. To the Aga Khan, Islam is a thinking faith: one that teaches compassion and tolerance, and upholds the dignity of man. He views his mandate as Imam to safeguard the individual’s right to personal intellectual search, and to give practical expression to an ethical vision of society.
A second answer may be in something he said in 1983: “There are those who enter the world in such poverty that they are deprived of both the means and the motivation to improve their circumstances. Unless they can be touched with the spark which ignites the spirit of individual enterprise and determination, they will only sink into apathy, degradation and despair. It is for us, who are more fortunate, to provide that spark.”
The most important lesson of this golden jubilee? That the walls between business and the rest of life are more perception than reality. It is perfectly possible to combine good business sense with deep-seated concern for the inequities we have created on our planet. Business is the primary generator of wealth; once created, that wealth can used for a higher purpose. Running a business need not make you blind to social realities; equally, engaging in meaningful philanthropy can also be done with clear, business-like goals and without creating dependence.
You and I do not have the resources or the vision to build an international network of institutions. But we do have the ability to light a spark in others. Let us not waste it.
A unique man and his unique network
Posted in Sunday Nation by Sunny Bindra His Highness the Aga Khan’s 50th anniversary celebrations came to Kenya this week. He is marking his accession to spiritual leadership of the Ismaili Muslim community, and has chosen to commemorate much of this milestone here in Kenya. We should return the gesture by understanding the unique set of institutions that this leader has developed during his 50 years.
Unique they are, for the umbrella body - Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) - manages to span commercial, social and cultural institutions. The individual entities within the network include hard-nosed business enterprises in many sectors, including media, telephony, hospitality, power generation, financial services, manufacturing and agro-processing - but also development agencies whose only function is to help the disadvantaged achieve a measure of self-reliance.
The Aga Khan is in many ways an enigma: a jet-setter who is also spiritual leader to millions of faithful Muslims; a business titan who partners with private equity groups; a man who races horses and also worries deeply about world poverty. And a leader who inspires extraordinary voluntary action in his people.
I have worked in an advisory capacity in various parts of the network in recent years, and from my up-close vantage point I have noticed that there is a great deal for the rest of us to learn about combining business with social action.
AKDN has a unique purpose: it is “a contemporary endeavour to raise the social conscience of humanity through institutional action.” It is in the “institutional action” part of that statement that the rubber meets the road. Many of us, at community or individual level, profess to have similarly noble aims in life; not many of us can organise a network of agencies spanning 29 countries that delivers real results on the ground, and makes a difference to the lives of some of the poorest people in Africa and Asia. Not many of us can run cutting-edge businesses and development agencies - and bring the same managerial standards to both arenas.
The Aga Khan spent much of his childhood in Kenya, and we are clearly close to his heart. AKDN has assets approaching Sh. 40 billion here, and employs more than 10,000 people. It is clearly a long-term partner, having been in the region for more than 100 years; its first operation was a one-room community school in Zanzibar, opened in 1905.
Today the words ‘Aga Khan’ are part of Kenyans’ ordinary discourse, attached as they are to hospitals, educational institutions, and community projects across the land. This seemingly hotchpotch collection, when examined closely, reveals common underpinnings: managerial discipline; immense emphasis on ethics; and a strong pressure from the top to be self-reliant and self-sustaining.
Much of this achievement is due to the nature of the leader. Senior Kenyan executives who interact with the Aga Khan will tell you that he possesses a formidable business brain, and invariably takes a long view of all the activities he initiates. This is a spiritual leader with a difference.
What is intriguing is that it could all have been very different. The Aga Khan is reputedly one of the world’s richest men, controlling vast resources. He was born into this position, and many in his place might have settled for a life of indolent luxury. Some criticise him for being a spiritual leader who lives the life of a rich man. But what gives the Aga Khan the acknowledged drive and energy that made him build a path-breaking international network?
One answer lies in his refreshingly thoughtful views on Islam - a religion that has found itself immersed in controversy and violence in recent years. To the Aga Khan, Islam is a thinking faith: one that teaches compassion and tolerance, and upholds the dignity of man. He views his mandate as Imam to safeguard the individual’s right to personal intellectual search, and to give practical expression to an ethical vision of society.
A second answer may be in something he said in 1983: “There are those who enter the world in such poverty that they are deprived of both the means and the motivation to improve their circumstances. Unless they can be touched with the spark which ignites the spirit of individual enterprise and determination, they will only sink into apathy, degradation and despair. It is for us, who are more fortunate, to provide that spark.”
The most important lesson of this golden jubilee? That the walls between business and the rest of life are more perception than reality. It is perfectly possible to combine good business sense with deep-seated concern for the inequities we have created on our planet. Business is the primary generator of wealth; once created, that wealth can used for a higher purpose. Running a business need not make you blind to social realities; equally, engaging in meaningful philanthropy can also be done with clear, business-like goals and without creating dependence.
You and I do not have the resources or the vision to build an international network of institutions. But we do have the ability to light a spark in others. Let us not waste it.
Aga Khan in East Africa for First Golden Jubilee Visit
His Highness the Aga Khan arrives in Kenyaâs capital, Nairobi, on Sunday, 12 August, on the first leg of a 12-day official visit to the East Africa region, at the invitation of the Governments of Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda. During the trip the Aga Khan will meet with members of the Ismaili Community and top ranking government officials.
The East Africa tour will be the first undertaken by the Spiritual Leader of the 15 million-strong Ismaili community since he completed his 50 years as the Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims last month. He is expected to make a number of visits during his Golden Jubilee year, especially to countries where the Ismaili Community resides and where the Aga Khan Development Network operates.
Fifty years ago, at the age of 20, the Aga Khan succeeded his grandfather, Sir Sultan Mahomed Shah Aga Khan, as the 49th hereditary Imam of the Ismaili Muslims. In the Ismaili tradition, the Imamâts jubilee celebrations offer occasions to launch new social, cultural and economic development projects. Projects launched during the Jubilees of his grandfather, Aga Khan III, including the Diamond Jubilee Trust Bank and the Jubilee Investment Trust, continue to serve the people of East Africa.
During his visit to East Africa, the Aga Khan will preside over the foundation stone laying ceremonies for the Faculty of Health Sciences of the East Africa chapter of the Aga Khan University, the residential campus for the Aga Khan Academy in Mombasa, the new Aga Khan Academy in Kampala and Ugandas Bujagali Hydro Power Project. While in Mombasa, he will participate in the commemoration of the 25th anniversary of the Aga Khan Foundation's educational Madrasa Programme.
For further information please contact:
Wanjiru Mwangi Ruhanga
Communications Officer
AKDN Kenya
wanjiru.ruhanga@...
His Highness the Aga Khan arrives in Kenyaâs capital, Nairobi, on Sunday, 12 August, on the first leg of a 12-day official visit to the East Africa region, at the invitation of the Governments of Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda. During the trip the Aga Khan will meet with members of the Ismaili Community and top ranking government officials.
The East Africa tour will be the first undertaken by the Spiritual Leader of the 15 million-strong Ismaili community since he completed his 50 years as the Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims last month. He is expected to make a number of visits during his Golden Jubilee year, especially to countries where the Ismaili Community resides and where the Aga Khan Development Network operates.
Fifty years ago, at the age of 20, the Aga Khan succeeded his grandfather, Sir Sultan Mahomed Shah Aga Khan, as the 49th hereditary Imam of the Ismaili Muslims. In the Ismaili tradition, the Imamâts jubilee celebrations offer occasions to launch new social, cultural and economic development projects. Projects launched during the Jubilees of his grandfather, Aga Khan III, including the Diamond Jubilee Trust Bank and the Jubilee Investment Trust, continue to serve the people of East Africa.
During his visit to East Africa, the Aga Khan will preside over the foundation stone laying ceremonies for the Faculty of Health Sciences of the East Africa chapter of the Aga Khan University, the residential campus for the Aga Khan Academy in Mombasa, the new Aga Khan Academy in Kampala and Ugandas Bujagali Hydro Power Project. While in Mombasa, he will participate in the commemoration of the 25th anniversary of the Aga Khan Foundation's educational Madrasa Programme.
For further information please contact:
Wanjiru Mwangi Ruhanga
Communications Officer
AKDN Kenya
wanjiru.ruhanga@...
Aga Khan arrives in Kenya today for 12-day tour
Story by JEFF OTIENO
Publication Date: 8/12/2007
His Highness the Aga Khan, the spiritual leader of the Shia Ismaili Muslims, arrives in the country today to begin a 12-day official visit of the East African region.
The tour, which will cover Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, will be his first in the region since he completed 50 years as the Imam (spiritual leader) of the 15 million Ismaili Muslims living in some 25 countries, mainly in Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Europe and North America.
Fifty years ago, at the age of 20, the Aga Khan succeeded his grandfather, Sir Sultan Mahomed Shah Aga Khan, as the 49th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims.
During the trip, the Aga Khan will meet members of the Ismaili Community and top ranking government officials, among them President Kibaki.
He will also inaugurate various projects under the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN).
Projects inaugurated
The projects to be inaugurated are aimed at uplifting the lives of the less fortunate in society.
The Imam's jubilee celebrations offer an opportunity to launch new social, cultural and economic development projects.
Some of the memorable projects launched during the jubilees of his grandfather, Aga Khan III, include the Diamond Jubilee Trust Bank and the Jubilee Investment Trust.
In Nairobi, where the tour commences, the Aga Khan will launch the Faculty of Health Sciences of the East Africa chapter of the Aga Khan University in Nairobi.
He will also preside over the laying of the foundation stone of the residential campus of the Aga Khan Academy in Mombasa, the new Aga Khan Academy in Kampala and Uganda's Bujagali Hydro Power Project.
http://www.nationmedia.com/dailynation/ ... sid=104303
Story by JEFF OTIENO
Publication Date: 8/12/2007
His Highness the Aga Khan, the spiritual leader of the Shia Ismaili Muslims, arrives in the country today to begin a 12-day official visit of the East African region.
The tour, which will cover Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, will be his first in the region since he completed 50 years as the Imam (spiritual leader) of the 15 million Ismaili Muslims living in some 25 countries, mainly in Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Europe and North America.
Fifty years ago, at the age of 20, the Aga Khan succeeded his grandfather, Sir Sultan Mahomed Shah Aga Khan, as the 49th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims.
During the trip, the Aga Khan will meet members of the Ismaili Community and top ranking government officials, among them President Kibaki.
He will also inaugurate various projects under the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN).
Projects inaugurated
The projects to be inaugurated are aimed at uplifting the lives of the less fortunate in society.
The Imam's jubilee celebrations offer an opportunity to launch new social, cultural and economic development projects.
Some of the memorable projects launched during the jubilees of his grandfather, Aga Khan III, include the Diamond Jubilee Trust Bank and the Jubilee Investment Trust.
In Nairobi, where the tour commences, the Aga Khan will launch the Faculty of Health Sciences of the East Africa chapter of the Aga Khan University in Nairobi.
He will also preside over the laying of the foundation stone of the residential campus of the Aga Khan Academy in Mombasa, the new Aga Khan Academy in Kampala and Uganda's Bujagali Hydro Power Project.
http://www.nationmedia.com/dailynation/ ... sid=104303
Aga Khan arrives for tour of E Africa
Story by NATION Reporter
Publication Date: 2007/08/13
The Aga Khan, the spiritual leader of Ismaili Muslims, arrived in Nairobi yesterday for the first leg of a 12-day official visit to East Africa.
The plane carrying the Aga Khan landed at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport at 5 pm to a red carpet reception by the Government.
The Aga Khan, the spiritual leader of the Ismaili Muslims, receives a bouquet from seven-year-old Ramla Saleh at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi yesterday, as he began the first leg of his 12-day official visit to East Africa. He was received by Foreign Affairs minister Raphael Tuju, other top government officials and community leaders . Photo by WILLIAM OERI
He was received by Foreign Affairs minister Raphael Tuju and leaders of the Ismaili community led by the Aga Khan Development Network resident representative, Mr Aziz Bhaloo.
The chairman of the Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims, Prof Abdulghafur El Bussaidy, was also at the airport to welcome him.
The Aga Khan was entertained by traditional dancers from Bomas of Kenya before signing the visitors' book at the Presidential Pavilion.
Hundreds of Ismaili Muslims, waving the symbolic green and red strip flag, thronged the airport to receive their spiritual leader.
The Aga Khan celebrated 50 years as spiritual leader of Ismaili Muslims last month.
The current tour, which will cover Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, will be his first in the region since completing half-a-century as the Imam of the 15 million Ismaili Muslims living in some 25 countries in Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Europe and North America.
During trip
Fifty years ago, at the age of 20, the Aga Khan succeeded his grandfather, Sir Sultan Mahomed Shah Aga Khan, as the 49th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims. During the trip, the Aga Khan will meet members of the Ismaili community and hold talks with President Kibaki and top government officials.
He will also inaugurate various projects under AKDN, the umbrella organisation that operates various development agencies in the region.
The Imam's jubilee celebrations offer an opportunity to launch new social, cultural and economic development projects.
Some of the memorable projects launched during the jubilees of his grandfather, Aga Khan III, include the Diamond Jubilee Trust Bank and the Jubilee Investment Trust, which continue to serve the people of East Africa.
In Nairobi, the Aga Khan will launch the Faculty of Health Sciences of the East Africa chapter of the Aga Khan University.
He will then preside over the laying of the foundation stone for the residential campus of the Aga Khan Academy in Mombasa, the new Aga Khan Academy in Kampala and Uganda's Bujagali Hydro Power Project.
While in Mombasa, the Imam will also participate in the silver jubilee celebrations of the Aga Khan Foundation's Madrasa Pre-School Programme.
http://www.nationmedia.com/dailynation/ ... sid=104351
Story by NATION Reporter
Publication Date: 2007/08/13
The Aga Khan, the spiritual leader of Ismaili Muslims, arrived in Nairobi yesterday for the first leg of a 12-day official visit to East Africa.
The plane carrying the Aga Khan landed at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport at 5 pm to a red carpet reception by the Government.
The Aga Khan, the spiritual leader of the Ismaili Muslims, receives a bouquet from seven-year-old Ramla Saleh at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi yesterday, as he began the first leg of his 12-day official visit to East Africa. He was received by Foreign Affairs minister Raphael Tuju, other top government officials and community leaders . Photo by WILLIAM OERI
He was received by Foreign Affairs minister Raphael Tuju and leaders of the Ismaili community led by the Aga Khan Development Network resident representative, Mr Aziz Bhaloo.
The chairman of the Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims, Prof Abdulghafur El Bussaidy, was also at the airport to welcome him.
The Aga Khan was entertained by traditional dancers from Bomas of Kenya before signing the visitors' book at the Presidential Pavilion.
Hundreds of Ismaili Muslims, waving the symbolic green and red strip flag, thronged the airport to receive their spiritual leader.
The Aga Khan celebrated 50 years as spiritual leader of Ismaili Muslims last month.
The current tour, which will cover Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, will be his first in the region since completing half-a-century as the Imam of the 15 million Ismaili Muslims living in some 25 countries in Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Europe and North America.
During trip
Fifty years ago, at the age of 20, the Aga Khan succeeded his grandfather, Sir Sultan Mahomed Shah Aga Khan, as the 49th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims. During the trip, the Aga Khan will meet members of the Ismaili community and hold talks with President Kibaki and top government officials.
He will also inaugurate various projects under AKDN, the umbrella organisation that operates various development agencies in the region.
The Imam's jubilee celebrations offer an opportunity to launch new social, cultural and economic development projects.
Some of the memorable projects launched during the jubilees of his grandfather, Aga Khan III, include the Diamond Jubilee Trust Bank and the Jubilee Investment Trust, which continue to serve the people of East Africa.
In Nairobi, the Aga Khan will launch the Faculty of Health Sciences of the East Africa chapter of the Aga Khan University.
He will then preside over the laying of the foundation stone for the residential campus of the Aga Khan Academy in Mombasa, the new Aga Khan Academy in Kampala and Uganda's Bujagali Hydro Power Project.
While in Mombasa, the Imam will also participate in the silver jubilee celebrations of the Aga Khan Foundation's Madrasa Pre-School Programme.
http://www.nationmedia.com/dailynation/ ... sid=104351
President Kibaki holds talks with the Aga Khan, extols his philanthropic works
Written By:PPS , Posted: Mon, Aug 13, 2007
Caption: President Mwai Kibaki receives His Highness the Aga Khan at State House Nairobi when he called on him.
President Mwai Kibaki has underscored the important role played by the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) in transforming the lives of millions of people in the country.
The President singled out the Coastal Rural Support programmes (CRSP) programme, many of the projects under the AKDN for turning thousands of acres of initially unproductive land into agriculturally productive area.
Speaking at State House Nairobi when he held talks with His Highness the Aga Khan Monday, President Kibaki noted that the project had benefited thousands of farmers in several districts with harsh climate in the Coast Province.
Noting that the project has been instrumental in the adoption of modern farming techniques in the area, President Kibaki said there was need for the farmers to process their produce through value addition so as to reap maximum benefits.
In the same vein, the President pointed out that through the assistance of CRPS several dams have been built in the semi arid districts of Coast Province.
Said President Kibaki, "This has provided clean water to area residents who used to walk long distances in search of the precious commodity."
The President further lauded the AKDN for its involvement in the provision of health services noting that through the network was operating hospitals in Nairobi, Mombasa and Kisumu.
He also commended the network for it's involvement in education through institutions at various levels.
His Highness the Aga Khan said Kenya had achieved tremendous development strides due to an enabling environment existing in country.
http://www.kbc.co.ke/story.asp?ID=44369
mbdartzgoldenjubilee
Written By:PPS , Posted: Mon, Aug 13, 2007
Caption: President Mwai Kibaki receives His Highness the Aga Khan at State House Nairobi when he called on him.
President Mwai Kibaki has underscored the important role played by the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) in transforming the lives of millions of people in the country.
The President singled out the Coastal Rural Support programmes (CRSP) programme, many of the projects under the AKDN for turning thousands of acres of initially unproductive land into agriculturally productive area.
Speaking at State House Nairobi when he held talks with His Highness the Aga Khan Monday, President Kibaki noted that the project had benefited thousands of farmers in several districts with harsh climate in the Coast Province.
Noting that the project has been instrumental in the adoption of modern farming techniques in the area, President Kibaki said there was need for the farmers to process their produce through value addition so as to reap maximum benefits.
In the same vein, the President pointed out that through the assistance of CRPS several dams have been built in the semi arid districts of Coast Province.
Said President Kibaki, "This has provided clean water to area residents who used to walk long distances in search of the precious commodity."
The President further lauded the AKDN for its involvement in the provision of health services noting that through the network was operating hospitals in Nairobi, Mombasa and Kisumu.
He also commended the network for it's involvement in education through institutions at various levels.
His Highness the Aga Khan said Kenya had achieved tremendous development strides due to an enabling environment existing in country.
http://www.kbc.co.ke/story.asp?ID=44369
mbdartzgoldenjubilee
Aga Khan Inaugurates New Health Sciences Faculty on Nairobi Visit
By Nick Wadhams
Nairobi
13 August 2007
Wadhams report (mp3) - Download 521k
Listen to Wadhams report (mp3)
Kenya's President Mwai Kibaki (R) receiving The Aga Khan at the State House in Nairobi, 13 Aug 2007
The Aga Khan is on a 12-day visit across East Africa to celebrate 50 years as the leader of the world's 15 million Ismaili Muslims. As Nick Wadhams reports, his first stop was Nairobi, where he is meeting with government leaders and hundreds of his followers.
The Aga Khan inherited his title from his grandfather when he was 20 years old. Upon arriving in Nairobi, he was greeted by Kenya's foreign minister as well as traditional dancers. Hundreds of Ismailis showed up to greet him.
In a morning meeting, Kenyan President Mwai Kibaki praised the Aga Khan for financing projects that he said had helped thousands of farmers along the Kenyan coast.
In the afternoon, the Aga Khan attended a ceremony at the university hospital that bears his name to inaugurate a new health sciences facility.
During the hospital event on Monday, the Aga Khan lamented the state of education across the developing world and said it was private universities like the Aga Khan's that could help alleviate those problems.
"It should be said in all candor that the recent history of higher education in numerous less-developed countries has been discouraging," he said. "Some African countries which had strong institutions of higher learning at the time of their independence now find themselves unable to achieve even minimum global standards."
On hand at the ceremony was Kenya's education minister, George Saitoti, who watched as the plans for the new faculty were unveiled. He said the Kenyan government was trying to expand Kenya's university system, which can only accommodate about 25 percent of students who want higher education.
"This ground breaking ceremony could not have come at a better time, when the ministry of education is currently involved in an elaborate program that is aimed at increasing access to university education," said Saitoti. "Our public universities are able to absorb only about 10,000 students each year. This has been as a result of the limited infrastructure to accommodate those who qualify."
The Aga Khan will next go to Mombasa to lay the foundation stone for a residential campus of the Aga Khan Academy.
In the last 40 years, the Aga Khan has overseen a massive growth in the development agencies he oversees. His agencies' work includes education, promoting entrepreneurship, and promoting culture and history.
http://www.voanews.com/english/2007-08-13-voa38.cfm
****
Aga Khan varsity launches school of health sciences
Story by JEFF OTIENO
Publication Date: 8/14/2007
The Aga Khan University Hospital's faculty of health sciences was inaugurated in Nairobi yesterday.
The Aga Khan and Education minister George Saitoti look at the design of the university's Heart and Cancer Centre yesterday. Photo/WILLIAM OERI
It is the first of a series of projects, aimed at developing the region, to be initiated by the Aga Khan during his visit to East Africa as part of the Golden Jubilee celebrations as the spiritual leader of Ismaili Muslims.
The project makes Aga Khan University the first private university in eastern Africa to have a fully-fledged faculty of health sciences offering under-graduate and post-graduate degrees in medicine, nursing and allied health sciences.
It is part of a $250 million (Sh17.5 billion) investment at the institution, spanning a period of 15 years, and will host some 1,000 students and 175 faculty members once completed.
The Aga Khan said the new facilities, including a teaching hospital of 500 beds, will eventually occupy some 80,000 square metres and employ over 4,000 people.
He added that the launch of the faculty will also include construction of a new Heart and Cancer Centre to aid in teaching, research and treatment of chronic diseases.
The construction of the ultra-modern centre is expected to commence next month and will cost upwards of $40 million (Sh2.8 billion).
The Aga Khan said the central challenge of the new faculty will be to address the crucial health care priorities of the East African population and those living in other parts of sub-Saharan Africa.
"The new faculty of health sciences will educate future generations of professional leaders in the evidence-based practice of medicine," he added at a function held at the Aga Khan University Hospital in Nairobi.
Education Minister Prof George Saitoti represented the government at the ceremony which was also attended by professionals from the public and private sectors.
Prof Saitoti, who welcomed the Aga Khan, said the university had come at a time, when the Ministry of Education was involved in efforts aimed at increasing access to university education.
He said public universities were able to absorb about 10,000 students each year representing 20 to 26 per cent of the candidates attaining a mean grade of C+ and above.
The low admission was as a result of the limited infrastructure to accommodate more students, the minister said.
He paid tribute to the hospital for transforming itself into a premier teaching and tertiary care referral institution in the two years.
The Aga Khan urged African countries to learn from the successes of the American higher education system which, he said, had a highly diversified base, seeking support from both state and private sectors.
"I believe that the developing countries of Asia and Africa will likewise be well-served by encouraging private, self-governing institutions to develop side by side with those which were supported by the public sector," The Aga Khan said.
Though health care had become expensive worldwide Aga Khan hospitals in Kenya and those in India, Pakistan, Afghanistan and Tanzania, operated on a non-profit basis, he said. The Aga Khan commended the Ministry of Health's efforts in formulating a national health strategic plan adding that consultations should involve all groups, including the private sector.
The Aga Khan will today visit Mombasa to launch the construction of the residential campus of the Aga Khan Academy and also celebrate the 25 years of the Madrasa Pre-School Programme that has helped transform education in Coast Province.
Others present at the function yesterday were: the President of Aga Khan University Firoz Rasul, Chief Executive Officer of Aga Khan University Hospital Asmita Gillani, President of the Aga Khan Council of Kenya Zul Abdul and the Aga Khan Development Network resident representative Aziz Bhaloo, among others.
Later, the Aga Khan held talks with President Kibaki at State House. Mr Kibaki praised the important role played by the Aga Khan Development Network in transforming the lives of millions of people in the country.
The Aga Khan said Kenya had achieved tremendous development strides due to an enabling environment existing in country.
http://www.nationmedia.com/dailynation/ ... sid=104426
By Nick Wadhams
Nairobi
13 August 2007
Wadhams report (mp3) - Download 521k
Listen to Wadhams report (mp3)
Kenya's President Mwai Kibaki (R) receiving The Aga Khan at the State House in Nairobi, 13 Aug 2007
The Aga Khan is on a 12-day visit across East Africa to celebrate 50 years as the leader of the world's 15 million Ismaili Muslims. As Nick Wadhams reports, his first stop was Nairobi, where he is meeting with government leaders and hundreds of his followers.
The Aga Khan inherited his title from his grandfather when he was 20 years old. Upon arriving in Nairobi, he was greeted by Kenya's foreign minister as well as traditional dancers. Hundreds of Ismailis showed up to greet him.
In a morning meeting, Kenyan President Mwai Kibaki praised the Aga Khan for financing projects that he said had helped thousands of farmers along the Kenyan coast.
In the afternoon, the Aga Khan attended a ceremony at the university hospital that bears his name to inaugurate a new health sciences facility.
During the hospital event on Monday, the Aga Khan lamented the state of education across the developing world and said it was private universities like the Aga Khan's that could help alleviate those problems.
"It should be said in all candor that the recent history of higher education in numerous less-developed countries has been discouraging," he said. "Some African countries which had strong institutions of higher learning at the time of their independence now find themselves unable to achieve even minimum global standards."
On hand at the ceremony was Kenya's education minister, George Saitoti, who watched as the plans for the new faculty were unveiled. He said the Kenyan government was trying to expand Kenya's university system, which can only accommodate about 25 percent of students who want higher education.
"This ground breaking ceremony could not have come at a better time, when the ministry of education is currently involved in an elaborate program that is aimed at increasing access to university education," said Saitoti. "Our public universities are able to absorb only about 10,000 students each year. This has been as a result of the limited infrastructure to accommodate those who qualify."
The Aga Khan will next go to Mombasa to lay the foundation stone for a residential campus of the Aga Khan Academy.
In the last 40 years, the Aga Khan has overseen a massive growth in the development agencies he oversees. His agencies' work includes education, promoting entrepreneurship, and promoting culture and history.
http://www.voanews.com/english/2007-08-13-voa38.cfm
****
Aga Khan varsity launches school of health sciences
Story by JEFF OTIENO
Publication Date: 8/14/2007
The Aga Khan University Hospital's faculty of health sciences was inaugurated in Nairobi yesterday.
The Aga Khan and Education minister George Saitoti look at the design of the university's Heart and Cancer Centre yesterday. Photo/WILLIAM OERI
It is the first of a series of projects, aimed at developing the region, to be initiated by the Aga Khan during his visit to East Africa as part of the Golden Jubilee celebrations as the spiritual leader of Ismaili Muslims.
The project makes Aga Khan University the first private university in eastern Africa to have a fully-fledged faculty of health sciences offering under-graduate and post-graduate degrees in medicine, nursing and allied health sciences.
It is part of a $250 million (Sh17.5 billion) investment at the institution, spanning a period of 15 years, and will host some 1,000 students and 175 faculty members once completed.
The Aga Khan said the new facilities, including a teaching hospital of 500 beds, will eventually occupy some 80,000 square metres and employ over 4,000 people.
He added that the launch of the faculty will also include construction of a new Heart and Cancer Centre to aid in teaching, research and treatment of chronic diseases.
The construction of the ultra-modern centre is expected to commence next month and will cost upwards of $40 million (Sh2.8 billion).
The Aga Khan said the central challenge of the new faculty will be to address the crucial health care priorities of the East African population and those living in other parts of sub-Saharan Africa.
"The new faculty of health sciences will educate future generations of professional leaders in the evidence-based practice of medicine," he added at a function held at the Aga Khan University Hospital in Nairobi.
Education Minister Prof George Saitoti represented the government at the ceremony which was also attended by professionals from the public and private sectors.
Prof Saitoti, who welcomed the Aga Khan, said the university had come at a time, when the Ministry of Education was involved in efforts aimed at increasing access to university education.
He said public universities were able to absorb about 10,000 students each year representing 20 to 26 per cent of the candidates attaining a mean grade of C+ and above.
The low admission was as a result of the limited infrastructure to accommodate more students, the minister said.
He paid tribute to the hospital for transforming itself into a premier teaching and tertiary care referral institution in the two years.
The Aga Khan urged African countries to learn from the successes of the American higher education system which, he said, had a highly diversified base, seeking support from both state and private sectors.
"I believe that the developing countries of Asia and Africa will likewise be well-served by encouraging private, self-governing institutions to develop side by side with those which were supported by the public sector," The Aga Khan said.
Though health care had become expensive worldwide Aga Khan hospitals in Kenya and those in India, Pakistan, Afghanistan and Tanzania, operated on a non-profit basis, he said. The Aga Khan commended the Ministry of Health's efforts in formulating a national health strategic plan adding that consultations should involve all groups, including the private sector.
The Aga Khan will today visit Mombasa to launch the construction of the residential campus of the Aga Khan Academy and also celebrate the 25 years of the Madrasa Pre-School Programme that has helped transform education in Coast Province.
Others present at the function yesterday were: the President of Aga Khan University Firoz Rasul, Chief Executive Officer of Aga Khan University Hospital Asmita Gillani, President of the Aga Khan Council of Kenya Zul Abdul and the Aga Khan Development Network resident representative Aziz Bhaloo, among others.
Later, the Aga Khan held talks with President Kibaki at State House. Mr Kibaki praised the important role played by the Aga Khan Development Network in transforming the lives of millions of people in the country.
The Aga Khan said Kenya had achieved tremendous development strides due to an enabling environment existing in country.
http://www.nationmedia.com/dailynation/ ... sid=104426
Kibaki Praises Aga Khan for Role in Agriculture, Education
East African Standard (Nairobi)
NEWS
14 August 2007
Posted to the web 13 August 2007
By Pps
Nairobi
President Kibaki has praised the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) for its role in transforming the lives of millions of people.
The President singled out the Coastal Rural Support programmes as one of the many projects under the AKDN that has transformed thousands of acres of initially unproductive land into agriculturally productive areas.
Speaking at State House Nairobi when he held talks with the Aga Khan - the spiritual leader of the Ismaili Muslims - President Kibaki said the project had benefited thousands of farmers in several districts with harsh climate at the Coast.
The President told farmers to process their produce and add value so as to reap maximum benefits.
He lauded the AKDN for its role in provision of education and health services.
The Aga Khan said Kenya had achieved tremendous development strides due to an enabling environment.
And Kenya will soon transform into a world-class centre to treat cancer and heart diseases. This follows the inauguration of the Faculty of Health Sciences at the Aga Khan University Hospital in Nairobi at an estimated cost of $250 million to stretch over the next 15 years.
Aga Khan becomes the first private university in Eastern Africa to create a fully-fledged faculty of Health Sciences offering undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in medicine, nursing and allied health sciences.
Inaugurating the facility in Nairobi, the Aga Khan said the faculty would educate future generations of professional leaders in the practice of medicine.
"Emphasising both teaching and research, it will be accompanied by a major expansion of the Aga Khan University Hospital here, including a new heart and cancer centre scheduled to begin construction this year," said Aga Khan.
Aga Khan, who is in the country to inaugurate projects coordinated by the Aga Khan Development Network, said the institution would admit 1,000 students and 175 faculty members.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Copyright © 2007 East African Standard. All rights reserved. Distributed by AllAfrica Global Media (allAfrica.com).
*****
Aga Khan arrives in Kenya for 12-day east African trip Sun Aug 12, 3:46 PM ET
The Aga Khan, the spiritual leader of Ismaili Muslims, arrived in Kenya Sunday on the first leg of a 12-day tour across east Africa to assess development projects.
"He is coming to the region to assess development projects. It a development-oriented trip," Ruhanga told AFP. He will meet Kenyan President Mwai Kibaki on Monday.
While in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, he will lay the foundation for development projects under the AKDV.
The AKDV is a network of agencies working with communities mainly in sub-Saharan Africa, Central and South Asia and the Middle East.
The Aga Khan will be in Tanzania between August 16-20 and in Uganda between August 21-22.
The east Africa tour will be the first undertaken by the leader of the 15 million-strong Ismaili community since he completed his 50 years as the Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims last month. He is the 49th hereditary Imam of the Ismaili Muslims.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/afp/20070812/wl ... mQFr6ZsdEF
East African Standard (Nairobi)
NEWS
14 August 2007
Posted to the web 13 August 2007
By Pps
Nairobi
President Kibaki has praised the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) for its role in transforming the lives of millions of people.
The President singled out the Coastal Rural Support programmes as one of the many projects under the AKDN that has transformed thousands of acres of initially unproductive land into agriculturally productive areas.
Speaking at State House Nairobi when he held talks with the Aga Khan - the spiritual leader of the Ismaili Muslims - President Kibaki said the project had benefited thousands of farmers in several districts with harsh climate at the Coast.
The President told farmers to process their produce and add value so as to reap maximum benefits.
He lauded the AKDN for its role in provision of education and health services.
The Aga Khan said Kenya had achieved tremendous development strides due to an enabling environment.
And Kenya will soon transform into a world-class centre to treat cancer and heart diseases. This follows the inauguration of the Faculty of Health Sciences at the Aga Khan University Hospital in Nairobi at an estimated cost of $250 million to stretch over the next 15 years.
Aga Khan becomes the first private university in Eastern Africa to create a fully-fledged faculty of Health Sciences offering undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in medicine, nursing and allied health sciences.
Inaugurating the facility in Nairobi, the Aga Khan said the faculty would educate future generations of professional leaders in the practice of medicine.
"Emphasising both teaching and research, it will be accompanied by a major expansion of the Aga Khan University Hospital here, including a new heart and cancer centre scheduled to begin construction this year," said Aga Khan.
Aga Khan, who is in the country to inaugurate projects coordinated by the Aga Khan Development Network, said the institution would admit 1,000 students and 175 faculty members.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Copyright © 2007 East African Standard. All rights reserved. Distributed by AllAfrica Global Media (allAfrica.com).
*****
Aga Khan arrives in Kenya for 12-day east African trip Sun Aug 12, 3:46 PM ET
The Aga Khan, the spiritual leader of Ismaili Muslims, arrived in Kenya Sunday on the first leg of a 12-day tour across east Africa to assess development projects.
"He is coming to the region to assess development projects. It a development-oriented trip," Ruhanga told AFP. He will meet Kenyan President Mwai Kibaki on Monday.
While in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, he will lay the foundation for development projects under the AKDV.
The AKDV is a network of agencies working with communities mainly in sub-Saharan Africa, Central and South Asia and the Middle East.
The Aga Khan will be in Tanzania between August 16-20 and in Uganda between August 21-22.
The east Africa tour will be the first undertaken by the leader of the 15 million-strong Ismaili community since he completed his 50 years as the Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims last month. He is the 49th hereditary Imam of the Ismaili Muslims.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/afp/20070812/wl ... mQFr6ZsdEF
SPEECH BY HIS EXCELLENCY HON. MWAI KIBAKI, C.G.H., M.P., PRESIDENT AND COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF OF THE ARMED FORCES OF THE REPUBLIC OF KENYA DURING THE STATE BANQUET IN HONOUR OF HIS HIGHNESS THE AGA KHAN, STATE HOUSE, NAIROBI, 13TH AUGUST, 2007
Your Highness, the Aga Khan,
Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,
On behalf of the Government and the people of Kenya, I warmly welcome Your Highness, the Aga Khan, to Kenya as you celebrate your Golden Jubilee. Allow me to take this opportunity, Your Highness, to acknowledge your exemplary spiritual leadership and to wish you continued success in your divine calling.
Fifty years ago, this month, you acceded to the spiritual leadership of the Ismaili community. Over this period, you have recorded an impressive and enduring legacy of service to the Ismaili community, our country Kenya and the world at large. The achievements you have accomplished are an eloquent testimony of your dedication to your spiritual calling as well as selfless commitment to the well-being of mankind, irrespective of race or religion.
Your Highness,
The Ismaili community has been an important partner in our quest for social and economic development in Kenya. The energy and resources that the community has continued to deploy in various fields of development, including health, education, business and investments have immensely benefited our people and country. I want to commend and thank the Ismaili community for their continued commitment to the social and economic development of our country. We value your contribution and look forward to even stronger bonds in the years ahead.
In particular, I applaud the good work of the Aga Khan Development Network in the health sector. Through the Aga Khan Health Services, the institution is playing an important role in the provision of quality healthcare services to our people. Indeed, Kenyans have benefited enormously from the three Aga Khan hospitals in the country, where over half a million patients are treated annually. Moreover, the hospitals also provide employment to over 1,800 people. In addition, the Aga Khan University hospital is the first University hospital in our region. The Aga Khan University hospital offers high quality medical training to the students. I am glad to note that the hospital has trained over 4,500 community health workers.
On the education front, we salute the immense contribution of the Aga Khan Education Services in the education sector. With thirteen schools and over six thousand students, the excellence of the Aga Khan Education Services continues to impact positively on the lives of many Kenyans. I hope that the Aga Khan Education Services can consider the possibility of extending their services to the less affluent areas of the country, for instance, the arid and semi arid areas as well as the poorer urban settings.
Your Highness,
Let me assure you that as you continue to advance the vision and objectives of your operations in Kenya, you can count on my Government's unwavering support. Indeed, and as you may be aware, my Government has over the last four and half years implemented a wide range of policy, legal and institutional reforms aimed at facilitating both business and charitable organizations to carry out their work efficiently and without hindrance throughout the country. The reforms have produced remarkable results, including sustained improvement of the performance of our economy over the last four years. For instance, the real G.D.P. growth rate has increased steadily from 0.4 percent in 2002 to 6.1 percent last year. We are looking forward to even better performance this year.
With respect to the investment climate, Kenya is today one of the easiest and best countries in which to do business. Indeed, as a result of the reforms we have implemented, our country was given an impressive rating of B+ by Standard and Poors, which is one of the most reputable rating agencies in the world. I can, therefore, confidently assure Your Highness, and the entire Ismaili community, that Kenya is now an even better investment destination. In view of the improvements we have made, I would like to urge members of the Ismaili community to increase their investments in our country.
Your Highness,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
The spirit of inclusiveness is one of the cornerstones of our social and economic philosophy. In this regard, my Government is committed to ensuring that all our people enjoy the benefits of the improved economic performance. Accordingly, we have implemented the programme of Free Primary Education. This programme has given hope to millions of children from poor families who are now assured of accessing basic education. Next year, we are taking another bold step by waiving tuition fees in all public secondary schools. This measure, together with the existing bursary scheme in support of children from poor families, will ensure that all children have access to secondary education.
Furthermore, we have introduced several devolved funds, which are being channelled directly to the communities in all parts of the country. Personally, I am encouraged by the enormous positive impact we have made in the lives of our people over the last four and a half years. I do recognize however, that there are both short-term and long-term challenges that we will continue to face.
In order to address these challenges, my Government is formulating a new economic blueprint, the VISION TWENTY THIRTY. This economic blueprint spells out the strategies that we will be deploying over the next five years and beyond, to enable us achieve even higher levels of social and economic development. We envisage the Kenya VISION TWENTY THIRTY to be an all-inclusive strategic plan that will transform our country into a middle-income economy. My appeal to Kenyans is that we should all remain focussed on consolidating the gains we have made. This will enable us to succeed in achieving the goals we have set for ourselves under the Kenya VISION TWENTY THIRTY.
Your Highness,
The Aga Khan Development Network has over the years remained a true partner in Kenya's economic development. This is largely because of your commitment to the improvement of the well-being of our people. In recognition of your dedicated service to the people of Kenya through the various organisations which you lead, I am gratified that I have today bestowed upon Your Highness, Kenya's highest medal of honour, - the Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart of Kenya, (C.G.H.). I encourage you to continue your excellent work of advancing social and economic progress in our country.
With these remarks, distinguished ladies and gentlemen, may I now request you all to join me in a toast to His Highness the Aga Khan on his Golden Jubilee, and to wish him good health, and a long and prosperous life.
Thank you and God bless you all.
courtesy: GOVERNMENT OF KENYA
Your Highness, the Aga Khan,
Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,
On behalf of the Government and the people of Kenya, I warmly welcome Your Highness, the Aga Khan, to Kenya as you celebrate your Golden Jubilee. Allow me to take this opportunity, Your Highness, to acknowledge your exemplary spiritual leadership and to wish you continued success in your divine calling.
Fifty years ago, this month, you acceded to the spiritual leadership of the Ismaili community. Over this period, you have recorded an impressive and enduring legacy of service to the Ismaili community, our country Kenya and the world at large. The achievements you have accomplished are an eloquent testimony of your dedication to your spiritual calling as well as selfless commitment to the well-being of mankind, irrespective of race or religion.
Your Highness,
The Ismaili community has been an important partner in our quest for social and economic development in Kenya. The energy and resources that the community has continued to deploy in various fields of development, including health, education, business and investments have immensely benefited our people and country. I want to commend and thank the Ismaili community for their continued commitment to the social and economic development of our country. We value your contribution and look forward to even stronger bonds in the years ahead.
In particular, I applaud the good work of the Aga Khan Development Network in the health sector. Through the Aga Khan Health Services, the institution is playing an important role in the provision of quality healthcare services to our people. Indeed, Kenyans have benefited enormously from the three Aga Khan hospitals in the country, where over half a million patients are treated annually. Moreover, the hospitals also provide employment to over 1,800 people. In addition, the Aga Khan University hospital is the first University hospital in our region. The Aga Khan University hospital offers high quality medical training to the students. I am glad to note that the hospital has trained over 4,500 community health workers.
On the education front, we salute the immense contribution of the Aga Khan Education Services in the education sector. With thirteen schools and over six thousand students, the excellence of the Aga Khan Education Services continues to impact positively on the lives of many Kenyans. I hope that the Aga Khan Education Services can consider the possibility of extending their services to the less affluent areas of the country, for instance, the arid and semi arid areas as well as the poorer urban settings.
Your Highness,
Let me assure you that as you continue to advance the vision and objectives of your operations in Kenya, you can count on my Government's unwavering support. Indeed, and as you may be aware, my Government has over the last four and half years implemented a wide range of policy, legal and institutional reforms aimed at facilitating both business and charitable organizations to carry out their work efficiently and without hindrance throughout the country. The reforms have produced remarkable results, including sustained improvement of the performance of our economy over the last four years. For instance, the real G.D.P. growth rate has increased steadily from 0.4 percent in 2002 to 6.1 percent last year. We are looking forward to even better performance this year.
With respect to the investment climate, Kenya is today one of the easiest and best countries in which to do business. Indeed, as a result of the reforms we have implemented, our country was given an impressive rating of B+ by Standard and Poors, which is one of the most reputable rating agencies in the world. I can, therefore, confidently assure Your Highness, and the entire Ismaili community, that Kenya is now an even better investment destination. In view of the improvements we have made, I would like to urge members of the Ismaili community to increase their investments in our country.
Your Highness,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
The spirit of inclusiveness is one of the cornerstones of our social and economic philosophy. In this regard, my Government is committed to ensuring that all our people enjoy the benefits of the improved economic performance. Accordingly, we have implemented the programme of Free Primary Education. This programme has given hope to millions of children from poor families who are now assured of accessing basic education. Next year, we are taking another bold step by waiving tuition fees in all public secondary schools. This measure, together with the existing bursary scheme in support of children from poor families, will ensure that all children have access to secondary education.
Furthermore, we have introduced several devolved funds, which are being channelled directly to the communities in all parts of the country. Personally, I am encouraged by the enormous positive impact we have made in the lives of our people over the last four and a half years. I do recognize however, that there are both short-term and long-term challenges that we will continue to face.
In order to address these challenges, my Government is formulating a new economic blueprint, the VISION TWENTY THIRTY. This economic blueprint spells out the strategies that we will be deploying over the next five years and beyond, to enable us achieve even higher levels of social and economic development. We envisage the Kenya VISION TWENTY THIRTY to be an all-inclusive strategic plan that will transform our country into a middle-income economy. My appeal to Kenyans is that we should all remain focussed on consolidating the gains we have made. This will enable us to succeed in achieving the goals we have set for ourselves under the Kenya VISION TWENTY THIRTY.
Your Highness,
The Aga Khan Development Network has over the years remained a true partner in Kenya's economic development. This is largely because of your commitment to the improvement of the well-being of our people. In recognition of your dedicated service to the people of Kenya through the various organisations which you lead, I am gratified that I have today bestowed upon Your Highness, Kenya's highest medal of honour, - the Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart of Kenya, (C.G.H.). I encourage you to continue your excellent work of advancing social and economic progress in our country.
With these remarks, distinguished ladies and gentlemen, may I now request you all to join me in a toast to His Highness the Aga Khan on his Golden Jubilee, and to wish him good health, and a long and prosperous life.
Thank you and God bless you all.
courtesy: GOVERNMENT OF KENYA
KENYA HIGHEST AWARD TO HIS HIGHNESS THE AGA KHAN
Nairobi, August 13, 2007
President Mwai Kibaki congratulates His Highness the Aga Khan after bestowing him with Chief of the Golden Heart, the highest Kenyan award during a state banquet in his honour at State House, Nairobi. (photo)
His Highness the Aga Khan commends Kenya’s economic growth
His Highness the Aga Khan has commended Kenya for achieving an impressive economic growth in the last three years, with the GDP expected to reach 6.9 % this year.
The Aga Khan noted that during same period, there has been a significant inflow of foreign investment and a massive investment in education, health care and infrastructure.
Referring to a new global opinion survey published by the Pew Institute and the New York Times three weeks ago, His Highness the Aga Khan said Kenyans had a reason to be optimistic about their future and that of their children as President Kibaki had transformed the country for the better.
“Those who know Kenya know that there are good reasons for this hopeful spirit,” His Highness the Aga Khan said.
His Highness the Aga Khan was speaking this evening during a state banquet hosted in his honour by President Kibaki and First Lady Mrs. Lucy Kibaki at State House Nairobi.
He noted that Kenya has one of the highest per capita literacy rates in Africa and is determined to make democracy work.
“Kenya has one of the highest per capita literacy rates in Africa and is determined to make democracy work,” said His Highness the Aga Khan.
His Highness the Aga Khan added that the Kenya Government has created an enabling environment for vibrant enterprise in fields such as agriculture and horticulture, tourism and finance.
“In fact, at a recent World Economic Forum, Kenya was ranked among the top three countries in Africa in welcoming investment and innovation,” the Aga Khan said.
In this regard, His Highness the Aga Khan, who is celebrating his Golden Jubilee, said he would be announcing this week a number of new Golden Jubilee projects that will build on past Aga Khan Development Network’s activities in Kenya to reflect the respect and affection he has for the Kenyan people.
Said His Highness the Aga Khan: “These investments will build on past AKDN activities here – in the fields of business and finance, the media, health care, education, transport, infrastructure investment - and others.”
Speaking during the state banquet, President Kibaki noted that the Ismaili community has been an important partner in the Government’s quest for social and economic development in Kenya.
The President said the energy and resources that the community has continued to deploy in various fields of development, including health, education, business and investments have immensely benefited wananchi and the country.
In this connection, the President commended and thanked the Ismaili community for their continued commitment to the social and economic development of the country.
“We value your contribution and look forward to even stronger bonds in the years ahead,” the Head of State said.
He, particularly, applauded the good work of the Aga Khan Development Network in the health sector, saying through the Aga Khan Health Services, the institution is playing an important role in the provision of quality healthcare services to Kenyans.
President Kibaki pointed out that the hospitals also provide employment to over 1,800 people, adding that the Aga Khan University hospital is the first University hospital in the region.
Said President Kibaki: “The Aga Khan University hospital offers high quality medical training to the students. I am glad to note that the hospital has trained over 4,500 community health workers.”
On the education front, President Kibaki saluted the immense contribution of the Aga Khan Education Services in the education sector, saying with thirteen schools and over six thousand students, the Aga Khan education services have continued to impact positively on the lives of many Kenyans.
He expressed optimism that the Aga Khan Education Services will consider the possibility of extending their services to the less affluent areas of the country, including the arid and semi arid areas as well as the poorer urban settings.
In this connection, President Kibaki assured His Highness the Aga Khan of the Kenya Government’s unwavering support as he continues to advance the vision and objectives of his operations in Kenya.
The President said that his Government has over the last four and half years implemented a wide range of policy, legal and institutional reforms aimed at facilitating both business and charitable organizations to carry out their work efficiently and without hindrance throughout the country.
With respect to the investment climate, President Kibaki observed that Kenya is today one of the easiest and best countries in which to do business.
“Indeed, as a result of the reforms we have implemented, our country was given an impressive rating of B+ by Standard and Poors, which is one of the most reputable rating agencies in the world,” the President noted.
Saying the spirit of inclusiveness is one of the cornerstones of his social and economic philosophy, President Kibaki said his Government is committed to ensuring that all Kenyans enjoy the benefits of the improved economic performance.
Accordingly, the President said the Government has implemented the programme of Free Primary Education that has given hope to millions of children from poor families who are now assured of accessing basic education.
He added that starting next year, the Government is taking another bold step by waiving tuition fees in all public secondary schools.
“This measure, together with the existing bursary scheme in support of children from poor families, will ensure that all children have access to secondary education,” President Kibaki said.
Furthermore, President Kibaki said the Government has introduced several devolved funds, which are being channelled directly to the communities in all parts of the country.
He said he was personally encouraged by the enormous positive impact the Government has made in the lives of the Kenyan people over the last four and a half years.
In order to address emerging challenges, President Kibaki said his Government is formulating a new economic blueprint, the VISION TWENTY THIRTY, that spells out the strategies it will be deploying over the next five years and beyond to achieve even higher levels of social and economic development.
“We envisage the Kenya VISION TWENTY THIRTY to be an all-inclusive strategic plan that will transform our country into a middle-income economy,” the Head of State said.
He appealed to Kenyans to remain focussed on consolidating the gains the country has made in order to succeed in achieving the goals set under the Kenya VISION TWENTY THIRTY.
In recognition of His Highness the Aga Khan’s dedicated service to the people of Kenya through the various organisations which he leads, President Kibaki bestowed upon him Kenya’s highest medal of honour, the Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart of Kenya (C.G.H.), and encouraged him to continue with his excellent work of advancing social and economic progress in Kenya.
The President wished His Highness the Aga Khan good health, and a long and prosperous life as he celebrates his Golden Jubilee.
courtesy:
©2006 State House, Nairobi Kenya
Nairobi, August 13, 2007
President Mwai Kibaki congratulates His Highness the Aga Khan after bestowing him with Chief of the Golden Heart, the highest Kenyan award during a state banquet in his honour at State House, Nairobi. (photo)
His Highness the Aga Khan commends Kenya’s economic growth
His Highness the Aga Khan has commended Kenya for achieving an impressive economic growth in the last three years, with the GDP expected to reach 6.9 % this year.
The Aga Khan noted that during same period, there has been a significant inflow of foreign investment and a massive investment in education, health care and infrastructure.
Referring to a new global opinion survey published by the Pew Institute and the New York Times three weeks ago, His Highness the Aga Khan said Kenyans had a reason to be optimistic about their future and that of their children as President Kibaki had transformed the country for the better.
“Those who know Kenya know that there are good reasons for this hopeful spirit,” His Highness the Aga Khan said.
His Highness the Aga Khan was speaking this evening during a state banquet hosted in his honour by President Kibaki and First Lady Mrs. Lucy Kibaki at State House Nairobi.
He noted that Kenya has one of the highest per capita literacy rates in Africa and is determined to make democracy work.
“Kenya has one of the highest per capita literacy rates in Africa and is determined to make democracy work,” said His Highness the Aga Khan.
His Highness the Aga Khan added that the Kenya Government has created an enabling environment for vibrant enterprise in fields such as agriculture and horticulture, tourism and finance.
“In fact, at a recent World Economic Forum, Kenya was ranked among the top three countries in Africa in welcoming investment and innovation,” the Aga Khan said.
In this regard, His Highness the Aga Khan, who is celebrating his Golden Jubilee, said he would be announcing this week a number of new Golden Jubilee projects that will build on past Aga Khan Development Network’s activities in Kenya to reflect the respect and affection he has for the Kenyan people.
Said His Highness the Aga Khan: “These investments will build on past AKDN activities here – in the fields of business and finance, the media, health care, education, transport, infrastructure investment - and others.”
Speaking during the state banquet, President Kibaki noted that the Ismaili community has been an important partner in the Government’s quest for social and economic development in Kenya.
The President said the energy and resources that the community has continued to deploy in various fields of development, including health, education, business and investments have immensely benefited wananchi and the country.
In this connection, the President commended and thanked the Ismaili community for their continued commitment to the social and economic development of the country.
“We value your contribution and look forward to even stronger bonds in the years ahead,” the Head of State said.
He, particularly, applauded the good work of the Aga Khan Development Network in the health sector, saying through the Aga Khan Health Services, the institution is playing an important role in the provision of quality healthcare services to Kenyans.
President Kibaki pointed out that the hospitals also provide employment to over 1,800 people, adding that the Aga Khan University hospital is the first University hospital in the region.
Said President Kibaki: “The Aga Khan University hospital offers high quality medical training to the students. I am glad to note that the hospital has trained over 4,500 community health workers.”
On the education front, President Kibaki saluted the immense contribution of the Aga Khan Education Services in the education sector, saying with thirteen schools and over six thousand students, the Aga Khan education services have continued to impact positively on the lives of many Kenyans.
He expressed optimism that the Aga Khan Education Services will consider the possibility of extending their services to the less affluent areas of the country, including the arid and semi arid areas as well as the poorer urban settings.
In this connection, President Kibaki assured His Highness the Aga Khan of the Kenya Government’s unwavering support as he continues to advance the vision and objectives of his operations in Kenya.
The President said that his Government has over the last four and half years implemented a wide range of policy, legal and institutional reforms aimed at facilitating both business and charitable organizations to carry out their work efficiently and without hindrance throughout the country.
With respect to the investment climate, President Kibaki observed that Kenya is today one of the easiest and best countries in which to do business.
“Indeed, as a result of the reforms we have implemented, our country was given an impressive rating of B+ by Standard and Poors, which is one of the most reputable rating agencies in the world,” the President noted.
Saying the spirit of inclusiveness is one of the cornerstones of his social and economic philosophy, President Kibaki said his Government is committed to ensuring that all Kenyans enjoy the benefits of the improved economic performance.
Accordingly, the President said the Government has implemented the programme of Free Primary Education that has given hope to millions of children from poor families who are now assured of accessing basic education.
He added that starting next year, the Government is taking another bold step by waiving tuition fees in all public secondary schools.
“This measure, together with the existing bursary scheme in support of children from poor families, will ensure that all children have access to secondary education,” President Kibaki said.
Furthermore, President Kibaki said the Government has introduced several devolved funds, which are being channelled directly to the communities in all parts of the country.
He said he was personally encouraged by the enormous positive impact the Government has made in the lives of the Kenyan people over the last four and a half years.
In order to address emerging challenges, President Kibaki said his Government is formulating a new economic blueprint, the VISION TWENTY THIRTY, that spells out the strategies it will be deploying over the next five years and beyond to achieve even higher levels of social and economic development.
“We envisage the Kenya VISION TWENTY THIRTY to be an all-inclusive strategic plan that will transform our country into a middle-income economy,” the Head of State said.
He appealed to Kenyans to remain focussed on consolidating the gains the country has made in order to succeed in achieving the goals set under the Kenya VISION TWENTY THIRTY.
In recognition of His Highness the Aga Khan’s dedicated service to the people of Kenya through the various organisations which he leads, President Kibaki bestowed upon him Kenya’s highest medal of honour, the Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart of Kenya (C.G.H.), and encouraged him to continue with his excellent work of advancing social and economic progress in Kenya.
The President wished His Highness the Aga Khan good health, and a long and prosperous life as he celebrates his Golden Jubilee.
courtesy:
©2006 State House, Nairobi Kenya
Karim,
Thanks for posting selected but important news on the Jubilee tour on this Forum while our team is busy traveling and covering the East Africa trip to bring more exclusive content. As you know we do not have paid full time employees and when our volunteers travel to better serve the Heritage community we always appreciate people posting info. Once we are fully functional in our new web site you will be able to directly post recent articles on the main page.
I am sure some people are not happy to see the heavy traffic on this web site and would be delighted to redirect it elsewhere but please keep contributing and do not be discourage by people saying others are a better source of info..
Admin
Thanks for posting selected but important news on the Jubilee tour on this Forum while our team is busy traveling and covering the East Africa trip to bring more exclusive content. As you know we do not have paid full time employees and when our volunteers travel to better serve the Heritage community we always appreciate people posting info. Once we are fully functional in our new web site you will be able to directly post recent articles on the main page.
I am sure some people are not happy to see the heavy traffic on this web site and would be delighted to redirect it elsewhere but please keep contributing and do not be discourage by people saying others are a better source of info..
Admin
Admin,
Based on what has happened so far, the Darbar should be an event to witness! I look forward to hearing about it, the context and the farmans.
If the news about MHI going to address the EAC summit in Arusha is true, then it will something very interesting and I hope we are able to get maximum coverage on that.
Karim
Based on what has happened so far, the Darbar should be an event to witness! I look forward to hearing about it, the context and the farmans.
If the news about MHI going to address the EAC summit in Arusha is true, then it will something very interesting and I hope we are able to get maximum coverage on that.
Karim
Aga Khan launches campus for model school at Coast
Story by JEFF OTIENO
Publication Date: 8/15/2007
A multi-million shilling residential campus was inaugurated at the Aga Khan Academy in Mombasa yesterday.
The Aga Khan is greeted by pupils from the Aga Khan Foundation’s madrassa programme at a function in Mombasa yesterday to celebrate 25 years since the inception of the programme. Photo/WILLIAM OERI
Construction of the campus launched by the Aga Khan, makes the academy the model of a series of top-level institutions to be built in more than 14 countries in Africa and Asia.
The spiritual leader of the Shia Ismaili Muslims said the academies programme will be rolled out in other countries to create a network of institutions offering high quality education.
The Aga Khan said students will enter the academies programme solely on merit irrespective of their financial resources or family background.
Unlock potential
“Our central hope for the programme is that when students leave the academies, they will move to high quality universities and then to positions of social leadership,” said the Aga Khan.
Earlier, the spiritual leader attended Silver Jubilee celebrations of the Madrasa Pre-School Programme which has helped transform education in Coast Province, at the Aga Khan Diamond Jubilee Hall.
The Aga Khan said early childhood education was important in unlocking the potential of pupils at an early age.
He noted the sharing of knowledge can be traced to roots of Islam. The spiritual leader urged the public to give more attention to schools which prepared young children for future life.
“Evidence accumulates steadily showing that an investment made in the earliest, pre-school years can bring enormous dividends as a child proceeds from one level of education to another,” he added.
Speaking at the Academy grounds, Education minister George Saitoti commended the Aga Khan for his efforts to boost provision of quality education.
Prof Saitoti said the school will be a valuable institution not only for Kenya, but also the East Africa region.
“There is credible evidence that educational quality has a strong causal impact on individual earnings and economic growth. Teacher quality strongly influences student outcomes,” the minister added.
He also noted that the Government will support the Aga Khan in his education investments saying a sessional paper on supporting private educational institutions had already been passed by Parliament. The Aga Khan said private and public educational institutions should not be seen as rivals in building a better society but as important collaborators.
He said the interest of society will be best served if its outstanding youth were given quality education adding that it was a specialised private school which was best positioned to fulfil the goal.
Quality education
“Social progress can be greatest when aristocracies of class give way to aristocracies of talent or meritocracies,” the Aga Khan noted.
He said the goal of the academies, will be to provide quality education to exceptional students irrespective of colour, ethnic background or religion. The ceremonies are part of golden jubilee celebrations for the Aga Khan as Imam of Shia Ismaili Muslims.
http://www.nationmedia.com/dailynation/ ... sid=104480
Story by JEFF OTIENO
Publication Date: 8/15/2007
A multi-million shilling residential campus was inaugurated at the Aga Khan Academy in Mombasa yesterday.
The Aga Khan is greeted by pupils from the Aga Khan Foundation’s madrassa programme at a function in Mombasa yesterday to celebrate 25 years since the inception of the programme. Photo/WILLIAM OERI
Construction of the campus launched by the Aga Khan, makes the academy the model of a series of top-level institutions to be built in more than 14 countries in Africa and Asia.
The spiritual leader of the Shia Ismaili Muslims said the academies programme will be rolled out in other countries to create a network of institutions offering high quality education.
The Aga Khan said students will enter the academies programme solely on merit irrespective of their financial resources or family background.
Unlock potential
“Our central hope for the programme is that when students leave the academies, they will move to high quality universities and then to positions of social leadership,” said the Aga Khan.
Earlier, the spiritual leader attended Silver Jubilee celebrations of the Madrasa Pre-School Programme which has helped transform education in Coast Province, at the Aga Khan Diamond Jubilee Hall.
The Aga Khan said early childhood education was important in unlocking the potential of pupils at an early age.
He noted the sharing of knowledge can be traced to roots of Islam. The spiritual leader urged the public to give more attention to schools which prepared young children for future life.
“Evidence accumulates steadily showing that an investment made in the earliest, pre-school years can bring enormous dividends as a child proceeds from one level of education to another,” he added.
Speaking at the Academy grounds, Education minister George Saitoti commended the Aga Khan for his efforts to boost provision of quality education.
Prof Saitoti said the school will be a valuable institution not only for Kenya, but also the East Africa region.
“There is credible evidence that educational quality has a strong causal impact on individual earnings and economic growth. Teacher quality strongly influences student outcomes,” the minister added.
He also noted that the Government will support the Aga Khan in his education investments saying a sessional paper on supporting private educational institutions had already been passed by Parliament. The Aga Khan said private and public educational institutions should not be seen as rivals in building a better society but as important collaborators.
He said the interest of society will be best served if its outstanding youth were given quality education adding that it was a specialised private school which was best positioned to fulfil the goal.
Quality education
“Social progress can be greatest when aristocracies of class give way to aristocracies of talent or meritocracies,” the Aga Khan noted.
He said the goal of the academies, will be to provide quality education to exceptional students irrespective of colour, ethnic background or religion. The ceremonies are part of golden jubilee celebrations for the Aga Khan as Imam of Shia Ismaili Muslims.
http://www.nationmedia.com/dailynation/ ... sid=104480
GJ Darbar Mubarak to all of us.
GJ Darbar Mubarak to all of us.
Last edited by A,Aamin on Fri Aug 17, 2007 2:23 am, edited 2 times in total.
A,Aamin,
GJ and Deedar Mubarak to you.
The news items that I have posted are related to and happened during the Mulaqats and Padhramnis. They are aspects of the GJ celebrations just as the Deedar. They highlight the importance of GJ Mulaqats in the lives of other people outside the Jamat and of course are more comprehensive than 'Didar was excellent' indicated by you! As it was communicated to us, one aspect of the Mulaqats was to make the wider public aware of the institution of Imamat and his role in the Jamats and the Muslim Umma. The news events related to the Mulaqat that I have posted serve that purpose.
They also provide the background information to whatever the Imam might have said in his Farmans.
GJ and Deedar Mubarak to you.
The news items that I have posted are related to and happened during the Mulaqats and Padhramnis. They are aspects of the GJ celebrations just as the Deedar. They highlight the importance of GJ Mulaqats in the lives of other people outside the Jamat and of course are more comprehensive than 'Didar was excellent' indicated by you! As it was communicated to us, one aspect of the Mulaqats was to make the wider public aware of the institution of Imamat and his role in the Jamats and the Muslim Umma. The news events related to the Mulaqat that I have posted serve that purpose.
They also provide the background information to whatever the Imam might have said in his Farmans.
NAIROBI DEEDAR
> >>>Sent: Wednesday, August 15, 2007 1:27 PM
> >>>Subject: FW: Deedar!
> >>>
> >>>>>FORWARDING AS IS FROM SOMEONE WHO JUST HAD DEEDAR IN NAIROBI,
>MUBARAKI,
> >>>>>
> >>>>>
> >>>>>
> >>>>> > "Had very good deedar here in Nbi...it was well
> >>>>> > organized...deedar was at 10am they opened the hall at
> >>>>> > 4am, all volunteers had to report at 2am to setup and
> >>>>> > also to go through security scanning (which is where I
> >>>>> > had a duty from 2am to 10am)....
> >>>>> >
> >>>>> > HI arrived a few mins before 10am, the hall was setup
> >>>>> > very well, the stage was viewable nicely from all
> >>>>> > angles....volunteers such as myself who had duty until
> >>>>> > the last minute actually were allocated space right
> >>>>> > beside the stage (on the side of the stage, so we got
> >>>>> > the side view but we were very close)
> >>>>> >
> >>>>> > H.I farman was very powerful, although seemed short
> >>>>> > (or maybe just time was flying !)....main points were
> >>>>> > :
> >>>>>
> >>>>> >
> >>>>> > - Must build greater institutional capacity
> >>>>> > - Institutions must think more globally, not just
> >>>>> > country specific but must forge objectives/activities
> >>>>> > that are inter-state, e.g. He said Kenya, Tanzania,
> >>>>> > Uganda and other African jamati institutions should
> >>>>> > work together and create programs that are global
> >>>>> > - Jamati institutions NEED "good minds"....he then
> >>>>> > referred to is special request for golden jubilee that
> >>>>> > he wants TIME and KNOWLEDGE seva
> >>>>> > - Again emphasized that "good minds" should consider
> >>>>> > joining institutions and work for it
> >>>>> > - There were 44 countries represented at the deedar !
> >>>>> > Although interestingly he referred to that as a
> >>>>> > potential concern since he said the jamat has spread
> >>>>> > out so much around the world that he is concerned if
> >>>>> > the jamat will
> >>>>>remain united and if the jamat will be
> >>>>> > able to work together on programs, etc as one jamat
> >>>>> > due to the extreme spread out !
> >>>>> > - His main emphasis for Africa will remain Education
> >>>>> > and Healthcare....his vision is that decades down the
> >>>>> > road both Education and healthcare would be world
> >>>>> > class in Africa
> >>>>> > - Outside of the vision of improving quality of life,
> >>>>> > his two main concerns remain....jamati members who are
> >>>>> > extremely poor and jamati members who are old age...He
> >>>>> > is very concerned and said that he will spend much of
> >>>>> > His time for the next 1 year during golden jubilee
> >>>>> > seeking solutions in multiple countries for these 2
> >>>>> > areas
> >>>>> > - He once again emphasized that we must work united
> >>>>> > - Emphasized on regular practice of faith...He said
> >>>>> > that you could take your tasbihs and
> >>>>>no-one around you
> >>>>> > would even know that you took tasbih....this was in
> >>>>> > the context of the modern life where everyone is busy
> >>>>> > and has no time.....His point was there is many ways
> >>>>> > of remembering faith....even small few remembrances
> >>>>> > during the day
> >>>>> > - He said that He was very happy....He began the
> >>>>> > farman saying He wanted his jamat at the deedar to be
> >>>>> > happy and have your hearts dance in joy
> >>>>> > - After being presented with Nazrana, He then came up
> >>>>> > again and said now "My heart is dancing with joy" due
> >>>>> > to the beautiful nazrana and gift....part of the
> >>>>> > nazrana was going to be time and knowledge !
> >>>>> >
> >>>>> > I am sure I missed a few points....but this covers
> >>>>> > broadly....hope the farmans are available soon in the
> >>>>> > JKs....
> >>>Subject: FW: Deedar!
> >>>
> >>>>>FORWARDING AS IS FROM SOMEONE WHO JUST HAD DEEDAR IN NAIROBI,
>MUBARAKI,
> >>>>>
> >>>>>
> >>>>>
> >>>>> > "Had very good deedar here in Nbi...it was well
> >>>>> > organized...deedar was at 10am they opened the hall at
> >>>>> > 4am, all volunteers had to report at 2am to setup and
> >>>>> > also to go through security scanning (which is where I
> >>>>> > had a duty from 2am to 10am)....
> >>>>> >
> >>>>> > HI arrived a few mins before 10am, the hall was setup
> >>>>> > very well, the stage was viewable nicely from all
> >>>>> > angles....volunteers such as myself who had duty until
> >>>>> > the last minute actually were allocated space right
> >>>>> > beside the stage (on the side of the stage, so we got
> >>>>> > the side view but we were very close)
> >>>>> >
> >>>>> > H.I farman was very powerful, although seemed short
> >>>>> > (or maybe just time was flying !)....main points were
> >>>>> > :
> >>>>>
> >>>>> >
> >>>>> > - Must build greater institutional capacity
> >>>>> > - Institutions must think more globally, not just
> >>>>> > country specific but must forge objectives/activities
> >>>>> > that are inter-state, e.g. He said Kenya, Tanzania,
> >>>>> > Uganda and other African jamati institutions should
> >>>>> > work together and create programs that are global
> >>>>> > - Jamati institutions NEED "good minds"....he then
> >>>>> > referred to is special request for golden jubilee that
> >>>>> > he wants TIME and KNOWLEDGE seva
> >>>>> > - Again emphasized that "good minds" should consider
> >>>>> > joining institutions and work for it
> >>>>> > - There were 44 countries represented at the deedar !
> >>>>> > Although interestingly he referred to that as a
> >>>>> > potential concern since he said the jamat has spread
> >>>>> > out so much around the world that he is concerned if
> >>>>> > the jamat will
> >>>>>remain united and if the jamat will be
> >>>>> > able to work together on programs, etc as one jamat
> >>>>> > due to the extreme spread out !
> >>>>> > - His main emphasis for Africa will remain Education
> >>>>> > and Healthcare....his vision is that decades down the
> >>>>> > road both Education and healthcare would be world
> >>>>> > class in Africa
> >>>>> > - Outside of the vision of improving quality of life,
> >>>>> > his two main concerns remain....jamati members who are
> >>>>> > extremely poor and jamati members who are old age...He
> >>>>> > is very concerned and said that he will spend much of
> >>>>> > His time for the next 1 year during golden jubilee
> >>>>> > seeking solutions in multiple countries for these 2
> >>>>> > areas
> >>>>> > - He once again emphasized that we must work united
> >>>>> > - Emphasized on regular practice of faith...He said
> >>>>> > that you could take your tasbihs and
> >>>>>no-one around you
> >>>>> > would even know that you took tasbih....this was in
> >>>>> > the context of the modern life where everyone is busy
> >>>>> > and has no time.....His point was there is many ways
> >>>>> > of remembering faith....even small few remembrances
> >>>>> > during the day
> >>>>> > - He said that He was very happy....He began the
> >>>>> > farman saying He wanted his jamat at the deedar to be
> >>>>> > happy and have your hearts dance in joy
> >>>>> > - After being presented with Nazrana, He then came up
> >>>>> > again and said now "My heart is dancing with joy" due
> >>>>> > to the beautiful nazrana and gift....part of the
> >>>>> > nazrana was going to be time and knowledge !
> >>>>> >
> >>>>> > I am sure I missed a few points....but this covers
> >>>>> > broadly....hope the farmans are available soon in the
> >>>>> > JKs....
Hey and YAM family & Friends
We had the most wonderful deedar and we were thinking of you guys and prayed for all!
The arrangements here were so amazing, the day we arrive, there was a volunteer just outside the gate with huge board with GOLDEN JUBILLE and welcoming every person of the plane, btw it was half full of ismailis! Once we come down to the imigration, we were again greated with another voluteers giving a snack pack, blankets, as its pretty cold here (well it ' s like 13C lol like that's cold for us canuks eh?) and the girls got roses with their snack pack. They also assisted us with the forms and imigrations. Once down stairs, again there were more volunteers assinsting with baggage collections, and advice us not go out without them to avoid customs. Once outside there was another desk were we registered and they asked if we needed ride to town and/or hotel accomodation, as they have rooms reseved if needed.
WOW I was so impressed and almosted chocked up � yup I did ; believe it or not I really felt weak in my knees. Once we got to the parking lot, there was huge tent and shuttles ready to transport people . It was amazing, as all these desk and tables had huge Golden Jubilee colours and emblems
The day of deedar, we had duty (yeah! I signed up for duty) so we had to report for 2:30 AM, we tried sleeping early but were too excited so barely slept! We were at JK grounds around 2:45 am, got assigned our duties and started scanning (AKA security checks). It' s amazing how many people still brought cameras, cellphones, sharp objects (yeah, like swiss army knifes etc) so all these things were confiscated and bagged and tagged . Our duty finished at 9:50 am and deedar were starting at 10:00 am so we were rushed in the hall and pushed all the way up in the front were they had kept space for all the savadaries� wow we were place about 30 feet from the stage and had side profile of Hazar Imam!
Mawla Bapa, started his farmans on his opening statement, please note I am paraphrasing ; first he thanked and gave blessing to all the volunteers and sevadaries about the all the arrangement made to receive all the jamats from outside and he said there were 44 different country jamats present here today! I really thought of you during these times , he continued stating he wanted all his jamats here and their Jamats/family for their hearts to dance with Joy! Wow I have never heard those words used before by him! He again repeated these words after when he was was presented with Nazrana, and he said, again I paraphrase, just like your hearts will dance with Joy, my heart is jumping with Joy from Nazrana and gifts, he looked like little boy so happy! During his irshadmubarak, he also mention for all his jamat to ensure we look after the old and less fortunate .
Hazar Imam also stated that the Jamats like in central Asia have to be help and their quality of life has to be improved. He said stated already a century and half has been pladged and he's very happy. He also said that he had agreed to ha ve TIME AND KNOWLEDGE compared to traditional material nazrana. Please note I am paraphrasing and we were really tired and may have missed things or may have not understood , so please wait till the official firmans come out to listed to them.
Everyday, they have lunches and dinners served in the grounds , I think I have gained weight like it 's gonna show lol. Tomorrow there is deedar in Dar and there are lots of people going from here. Deedar in Kampala I believe it' s set for Aug 23. I heard from the gravevines, there were 19,000 people in this darbaar , jamat here is about 5,000. It was amazing to see all the visitors also participating in all the duties. I tried to sign up with transportation team, but since I don't have a kenyan license and don't know the roads, and besides I think they had enough people there, the shortage was in scanning and wheelchair pushing, to which most of us were placed.
Lastly, I would like to wish you all mubaraki and I prayed for all, mawla iman-ji-salamati, kul mushkil asaane kare, grant you barakat , happyness, and give you opportunity to do more seva! Ameen!
Thanks and YAM!
PS, AJ: I seen what you were talking about! He actually blew three times when he was blessing the niyaz! Wow you were right!!
----------------
Dear all,
YAM and Mubaraki
Golden Jubilee Darbar
It all started from 13th when MHI laid the foundation of Faculty of Health Sciences at AKU, Nairobi . He was happy and eager to express the extension of AKU in East Africa over the next 15 years with more faculties of investment about 250 million dollars. Next day, he was in Mombasa .
Morning, he attended a ceremony to mark the 25th year of famous Madrasa programs. He looked tired but made sure to spend time with leaders of other Muslim sect to discuss.
Later, that evening, he laid the foundation of residential facility for Aga Khan Academy . MHI was excited and happy. AK Academy in Mombasa is very close and dear to him.
Next day was the big day of Darbar. We all left Mombasa in Ismaili chartered plane a night before and reached Darbar Hall at about 4 in the morning. MHI arrived at 10:05 am. The ginan "saheba jee too more man bhaave" was very touching. In his farman, in the beginning he said it's
a day of "joy and celebration for all jamat" and blessed that "our hearts dance in joy and happiness". He mentioned about rapidly changing world and how to keep up, by balancing worldly and material with spiritual duties". He stressed to be "regular in prayers, go to JK, and
say tasbih whenever you have time and wherever you are." This time there was an additional sentence, he mentioned "say your tasbih, and nobody knows that you are saying tasbih".
Later, when he came again to thank for Nazrana, he said "now my heart is dancing in joy and celebration, after knowing the pledge of Time and Knowledge Nazrana" Then he got very happy and excited and said, that Council has not informed me about your plans later in the day, but I know you will all celebrate with dandiaraas. He wished that when we play, he will be with us playing raas in "heart and spirit" He was waving his hands in such excitement that at one point he waited for jamat to clap. Since, the jamat was trained not to clap before deedar thru waez, but still it such a joy that the hall clapped and clapped and MHI was delighted. Finally, he said, he is so
happy that he wishes to "dance and jump in joy"
Just before the arrival of MHI in hall, there was this flickering sunlight appearing right on his chair where his head would be. The hall was covered but there were "cool vents" rotating on the roof for proper ventilation. And sunlight found its way to MHI chair. A volunteer rushed up the stage to pull the chair forward to avoid it. As MHI was walking thru the hall, the sunlight moved forward back to same position on his chair. Again, the same volunteer rushed up the stage to pull the chair more forward (while MHI was in the hall). When MHI reached the stage, the flickering light appeared again towards his shoulder and later disappeared soon without bothering the Imam.
The Nairobi arrangement was brilliant, despite international jamat's huge participation, mostly Canadians and Pakistan . There were jamat from 44 countries. It was such a delight for all of us. We did remember all of you while in deedar. We reached back to Mombasa at 1:00 am last night.
Now, MHI is off to Dar and tomorrow is darbar in Dar.
Best Regards
We had the most wonderful deedar and we were thinking of you guys and prayed for all!
The arrangements here were so amazing, the day we arrive, there was a volunteer just outside the gate with huge board with GOLDEN JUBILLE and welcoming every person of the plane, btw it was half full of ismailis! Once we come down to the imigration, we were again greated with another voluteers giving a snack pack, blankets, as its pretty cold here (well it ' s like 13C lol like that's cold for us canuks eh?) and the girls got roses with their snack pack. They also assisted us with the forms and imigrations. Once down stairs, again there were more volunteers assinsting with baggage collections, and advice us not go out without them to avoid customs. Once outside there was another desk were we registered and they asked if we needed ride to town and/or hotel accomodation, as they have rooms reseved if needed.
WOW I was so impressed and almosted chocked up � yup I did ; believe it or not I really felt weak in my knees. Once we got to the parking lot, there was huge tent and shuttles ready to transport people . It was amazing, as all these desk and tables had huge Golden Jubilee colours and emblems
The day of deedar, we had duty (yeah! I signed up for duty) so we had to report for 2:30 AM, we tried sleeping early but were too excited so barely slept! We were at JK grounds around 2:45 am, got assigned our duties and started scanning (AKA security checks). It' s amazing how many people still brought cameras, cellphones, sharp objects (yeah, like swiss army knifes etc) so all these things were confiscated and bagged and tagged . Our duty finished at 9:50 am and deedar were starting at 10:00 am so we were rushed in the hall and pushed all the way up in the front were they had kept space for all the savadaries� wow we were place about 30 feet from the stage and had side profile of Hazar Imam!
Mawla Bapa, started his farmans on his opening statement, please note I am paraphrasing ; first he thanked and gave blessing to all the volunteers and sevadaries about the all the arrangement made to receive all the jamats from outside and he said there were 44 different country jamats present here today! I really thought of you during these times , he continued stating he wanted all his jamats here and their Jamats/family for their hearts to dance with Joy! Wow I have never heard those words used before by him! He again repeated these words after when he was was presented with Nazrana, and he said, again I paraphrase, just like your hearts will dance with Joy, my heart is jumping with Joy from Nazrana and gifts, he looked like little boy so happy! During his irshadmubarak, he also mention for all his jamat to ensure we look after the old and less fortunate .
Hazar Imam also stated that the Jamats like in central Asia have to be help and their quality of life has to be improved. He said stated already a century and half has been pladged and he's very happy. He also said that he had agreed to ha ve TIME AND KNOWLEDGE compared to traditional material nazrana. Please note I am paraphrasing and we were really tired and may have missed things or may have not understood , so please wait till the official firmans come out to listed to them.
Everyday, they have lunches and dinners served in the grounds , I think I have gained weight like it 's gonna show lol. Tomorrow there is deedar in Dar and there are lots of people going from here. Deedar in Kampala I believe it' s set for Aug 23. I heard from the gravevines, there were 19,000 people in this darbaar , jamat here is about 5,000. It was amazing to see all the visitors also participating in all the duties. I tried to sign up with transportation team, but since I don't have a kenyan license and don't know the roads, and besides I think they had enough people there, the shortage was in scanning and wheelchair pushing, to which most of us were placed.
Lastly, I would like to wish you all mubaraki and I prayed for all, mawla iman-ji-salamati, kul mushkil asaane kare, grant you barakat , happyness, and give you opportunity to do more seva! Ameen!
Thanks and YAM!
PS, AJ: I seen what you were talking about! He actually blew three times when he was blessing the niyaz! Wow you were right!!
----------------
Dear all,
YAM and Mubaraki
Golden Jubilee Darbar
It all started from 13th when MHI laid the foundation of Faculty of Health Sciences at AKU, Nairobi . He was happy and eager to express the extension of AKU in East Africa over the next 15 years with more faculties of investment about 250 million dollars. Next day, he was in Mombasa .
Morning, he attended a ceremony to mark the 25th year of famous Madrasa programs. He looked tired but made sure to spend time with leaders of other Muslim sect to discuss.
Later, that evening, he laid the foundation of residential facility for Aga Khan Academy . MHI was excited and happy. AK Academy in Mombasa is very close and dear to him.
Next day was the big day of Darbar. We all left Mombasa in Ismaili chartered plane a night before and reached Darbar Hall at about 4 in the morning. MHI arrived at 10:05 am. The ginan "saheba jee too more man bhaave" was very touching. In his farman, in the beginning he said it's
a day of "joy and celebration for all jamat" and blessed that "our hearts dance in joy and happiness". He mentioned about rapidly changing world and how to keep up, by balancing worldly and material with spiritual duties". He stressed to be "regular in prayers, go to JK, and
say tasbih whenever you have time and wherever you are." This time there was an additional sentence, he mentioned "say your tasbih, and nobody knows that you are saying tasbih".
Later, when he came again to thank for Nazrana, he said "now my heart is dancing in joy and celebration, after knowing the pledge of Time and Knowledge Nazrana" Then he got very happy and excited and said, that Council has not informed me about your plans later in the day, but I know you will all celebrate with dandiaraas. He wished that when we play, he will be with us playing raas in "heart and spirit" He was waving his hands in such excitement that at one point he waited for jamat to clap. Since, the jamat was trained not to clap before deedar thru waez, but still it such a joy that the hall clapped and clapped and MHI was delighted. Finally, he said, he is so
happy that he wishes to "dance and jump in joy"
Just before the arrival of MHI in hall, there was this flickering sunlight appearing right on his chair where his head would be. The hall was covered but there were "cool vents" rotating on the roof for proper ventilation. And sunlight found its way to MHI chair. A volunteer rushed up the stage to pull the chair forward to avoid it. As MHI was walking thru the hall, the sunlight moved forward back to same position on his chair. Again, the same volunteer rushed up the stage to pull the chair more forward (while MHI was in the hall). When MHI reached the stage, the flickering light appeared again towards his shoulder and later disappeared soon without bothering the Imam.
The Nairobi arrangement was brilliant, despite international jamat's huge participation, mostly Canadians and Pakistan . There were jamat from 44 countries. It was such a delight for all of us. We did remember all of you while in deedar. We reached back to Mombasa at 1:00 am last night.
Now, MHI is off to Dar and tomorrow is darbar in Dar.
Best Regards
Video of MHI's arrival in Kenya:
See the webpage at the following address
http://www.theismaili.org/ea_arrival_video.htm
TheIsmaili.org
See the webpage at the following address
http://www.theismaili.org/ea_arrival_video.htm
TheIsmaili.org
Nairobi deedar -- forwarded as received
---------- Forwarded message ----------
Date: 20-Aug-2007 10:39
Subject: Fw: May your Hearts Dance in Joy - Nairobi Didar
Mubaraki! After a 12 hour long bus ride, filled with unscheduled stops and
being stuck in the jungle for hours, I'm finally back in Mombasa. As
promised I would like to share my darbar experience with you.
Wednesday August 15th, 2007:
I flew out of MSA at 1:30am on the morning of didar and arrived shortly
after two. The chartered flight was filled with a palpable sense of
excitement and celebration. We were met at Kenyatta International by
volunteers who quickly shuttled us to Aga Khan Primary School, where we
arrived at around 3:15. The doors to the hall were to open up at 4, but the
lineup to get in stretched from the main gate of the Primary school, around
the school and through the soccer pitch. The lineups were 8 lines deep, and
were partitioned according to the Kenyan and International Jamat. From these
lines we had to enter screening areas, where security scrutinized everything
we had with a fine tooth comb. Going through these two areas took more than
2.5 hours, and in all honesty the process was very poorly organized. I got
into the hall at around 6:15 and waited for Nasreen, Salim, and Anis, who
arrived shortly before 7am. It was very good to see them, in particular
Nasreen, who gave me a hug that would rival mom's on Mother's Day.
I had registered as a Kenyan, since the Kenyan Jamat was given priority
seating at the front of the stage. Seated behind the Kenyan Jamat, were
Jamats from Tanzania, DRC, Congo, SA, Mozambique, and Uganda. Behind this
cohort sat the international Jamats. In total more than 44 countries were
represented at the darbar. I chose to sit with Nasreen's family rather than
with the Kenyan Jamat, because I really wanted to share the experience with
family, and I'm certainly glad I made that decision otherwise it would have
been an extremely lonely experience. Anis, because of problems with here
knees sat on a chair in the back of the hall, while Nasreen, Salim Uncle and
myself managed to find a spot two-thirds of the way from the front of the
stage where we managed a decent vantage point. There were, however, a myriad
of television screens both big and small assembled throughout the hall to
accommodate everyone regardless of the vantage point. There didn't appear to
be a bad seat in the house, and the smiles on everyone's faces confirmed that.
By 8:15am the entire hall - which had been expanded from the front of
Parklands JK through to the middle of the running track - was filled without
a bare spot in sight. At 9:00 the doors closed, and the missionaries began
to prepare the Jamat for the impending Irshad with little success. As
salwats, ginans and waizes were being delivered the palpable atmosphere that
was nascent on the plane, began to ripple throughout the entire
congregation. It took a significant amount of coaxing from the missionaries
to quiet the Jamat, and this was only achieved after it was announced that
Hazar Imam had left his residence and was on His way to the hall.
Hazar Imam arrived at the didar hall at 9:45, dressed in a dark suit, a
light shirt, and a simple patterned tie. The Jamat was able to view His
arrival to the hall by a live television feed from outside Parklands JK.
Hazar Imam was received by the MKs of Parklands JK and was escorted to a
private lounge custom built for Him where He was given time to change into
the ceremonial attire. During this time the Jamat began to recite salwat and
readied themselves for the upcoming Irshad.
At three minutes to 10 MHI walked into the hall. He was dressed in pearl
white, with the new Golden Jubilee robe adorning his frame. He was glowing.
His presence began a deluge of emotion, and has he walked along the red
carpet, this emotion began to ripple throughout the hall. There was seldom a
dry eye to be seen in the hall. Hazar Imam walked the entire length of the
hall, reciting "Khanavadan, Khanavadan" as he walked by, stopping briefly in
front of a special area for those with palliative physical conditions, and
in front of the seniors. He had a smile that lit up the room, and he seemed
very, very happy to be there. It took Hazar Imam about 10 - 12 minutes to
walk around the hall, at which point he ascended up the stage trailed
closely by the MK's.
The stage had been covered with plush white carpeting, with a simple white
chair placed in the middle. Behind the chair were three panels, the centre
one being the largest with the Golden Jubilee emblem emblazoned in the
middle. On the sides of the stage were olive branches, and an assortment of
flowers in red and white and laced with green foliage. Despite its
simplicity the stage was beautifully decorated, befitting a King who had
come to preside over his court.
The darbar began with presentations of Nazrana to Hazar Imam, followed by
recitation of ginans, a qasidah and Surah An-Noor, 24:35:
"Allah is the Light of the heavens and the earth.
The Parable of His Light is as if there were a Niche
and within it a Lamp: the Lamp enclosed in Glass:
the glass as it were a brilliant star:
Lit from a blessed Tree, an Olive,
neither of the east nor of the west,
whose oil is well-nigh luminous,
though fire scarce touched it:
Light upon Light!
God does guide whom He will to His Light:
God does set forth Parables for men: and God does know all things."
Following these token gestures, the President of the National Council for
Kenya formally welcomed Mowlana Hazar Imam to Kenya, and thanked him for his
spiritual leadership, and his benevolent guidance over the last fifty years.
The speech was simple, quaint, yet powerful, and encapsulated the sentiments
of the entire Jamat. During the President's speech which was to the right of
Hazar Imam, and stage left, he pointed to a silver microphone adjacent to
the lectern where Hazar Imam was to speak. The microphone he said, was the
same microphone that Hazar Imam had used when He addressed the Kenyan Jamat
as He ascended to the throne of Imamat in 1957.
At this point the camera turned from the President to Hazar Imam
who had closed his eyes, and was deep in thought. I can only wonder what He
must have been thinking, or feeling at that particular moment. Hazar Imam
then opened his eyes, smiled at the President, nodded his head in approval,
but continued to look at the microphone deep in thought. He did this for a
little while longer as the President delivered his speech, and appeared
removed from what was being said.
Preceding the President's speech, Hazar Imam stood up and slowly walked to
the lectern. He looked at the microphone He had been presented with, placed
his hand on the top of it, caressed the mic, smiled and then began to speak
from an adjacent mic.
Mowlana Hazar Imam began by thanking the Kenyan government for their
kindness and hospitality during his visit, followed by thanking the
volunteers, both badged and non-badged who had worked so diligently to
ensure a successful darbar and a productive visit.
"May your hearts dance in joy at today's celebrations" is how He began His
Irshad. It was a line he repeated four times during the Irshad. "Being
here, my heart is dancing in joy" He went on to add.
While I won't quote what was said in the Irshad, Hazar Imam did touch upon
several themes. He began by talking about how the forces of globalization
had put unprecedented demands on the individual, and shifted the paradigm
from the religious to the secular, resulting in a vacuum increasingly being
filled with excess materialism. The ideals of our faith, He proferred,
should not be compromised in this process, and He urged us to dutifully
attend Jamat Khane regularly, to keep the tasbih at hand, and to recite
Salwat whenever possible.
Hazar Imam then went on to talk about our material progress, saying that he
was immensely, immensely proud of our development over the last fifty years,
and our ability to assist His institutions achieve their mandates. He went
on to talk about how the notion of "Time and Knowledge" has been the bedrock
of our development, from the time of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and Hazrat Ali,
and was happy to have received the Time and Knowledge Nazrana from the
Kenyan Jamat which totaled more than a century and a half of man hours.
"Your contributions", He said,"have made my heart jump in joy..."
He went on to add that while we should be proud of our progress and
contributions in Kenya, and in the developing world in general, we should
not become complacent as there is still much, much more work to be done. He
said that He was concerned primarily about access to universal education and
health care in marginalized areas of the world where the Jamat is residing
particularly Afghanistan and Tajikistan.
He posited that He will be focusing His energies in two primary areas over
the next few years: Firstly, access to universal education and access to
quality health care for the "ultra poor" (at which point Nasreen and I
looked at each other and smiled, and she squeezed my hand), and secondly, in
working to provide a better quality of life for the aged within our Jamat.
As our longevity increases, He said, the quality our health towards the end
of life should increase proportionally, so that individuals can enjoy the
last years of life with relative physical comfort, and minimal suffering (
mothajee, as Mom likes to say). You will recall these are two of the three
themes He mentioned in His live speech to the Global Jamat on Imamat Day.
As an aside, it was this part of this irshad that particularly got to me, as
I have mentioned to you in previous e-mails, I have been working on the
first draft of a survey that will look at the health and well-being of the
EA Jamat. So to hear Him say that this was one of his priorities seemed to
validate the work I've been doing here at CHD over the last month, and
seemed to reaffirm my commitment to this field.
Hazar Imam spoke for about 15 - 20 minutes, and at which point He went on to
conclude with special blessings for the Ruhani members of our families, the
souls of the departed, and for our Mushkil Asaan. He added that He hoped
that Jamat would celebrate by playing dandia raas, and while He wished He
could join us He was unable to, but was with us in spirit. "May your hearts
dance in joy," He added.
He got up once again to thank the Jamat for its Nazrana contributions and
offered more blessings for our spiritual upliftment, and that our Barakat be
returned to us many, many over.
At this point, He got up and walked around the darbar hall once again, at a
slower pace than with which He had entered, but with the same smile adoring
His face, showering the Jamat with his blessings.
Hazar Imam then returned to His personal lounge were He changed into his
suit, thanked the MKs for their service, and then departed the Hall as the
band played. It was very difficult to see Him leave.
While all this was going on, the missionaries pleaded with the Jamat to
remain seated as Hazar Imam was still in the hall, and encouraged them to
recite Salwat. Despite this pleading the Jamat stood up, and began to share
their feelings on what had just transpired. Tears began to flow like rivers
down the cheeks of those young and old; those who had seen the Imam for the
first time in their life, and those who realized that this would be their
last to see Him in the temporal.
This was my darbar experience. While this letter barely touches what was
said, or what transpired, I hope it gives you a gist of what I was thinking
and feeling.
I want you to know that I missed you both very, very much. While it was in
some ways an elative, euphoric experience to be in the presence of the Imam,
it was also a very sad time for me given your absence. I was fortunate
enough to have had Nasreen there who held my hand at many points during the
Irshad, and gave me comforting smiles all throughout. She knew what it was
like for me, having been through it herself before, and did her best to help
me through the process.
Inshallah, the next time I have didar we will all be together, and may your
hearts always dance in joy...
With all my love,
--
lilly
Date: 20-Aug-2007 10:39
Subject: Fw: May your Hearts Dance in Joy - Nairobi Didar
Mubaraki! After a 12 hour long bus ride, filled with unscheduled stops and
being stuck in the jungle for hours, I'm finally back in Mombasa. As
promised I would like to share my darbar experience with you.
Wednesday August 15th, 2007:
I flew out of MSA at 1:30am on the morning of didar and arrived shortly
after two. The chartered flight was filled with a palpable sense of
excitement and celebration. We were met at Kenyatta International by
volunteers who quickly shuttled us to Aga Khan Primary School, where we
arrived at around 3:15. The doors to the hall were to open up at 4, but the
lineup to get in stretched from the main gate of the Primary school, around
the school and through the soccer pitch. The lineups were 8 lines deep, and
were partitioned according to the Kenyan and International Jamat. From these
lines we had to enter screening areas, where security scrutinized everything
we had with a fine tooth comb. Going through these two areas took more than
2.5 hours, and in all honesty the process was very poorly organized. I got
into the hall at around 6:15 and waited for Nasreen, Salim, and Anis, who
arrived shortly before 7am. It was very good to see them, in particular
Nasreen, who gave me a hug that would rival mom's on Mother's Day.
I had registered as a Kenyan, since the Kenyan Jamat was given priority
seating at the front of the stage. Seated behind the Kenyan Jamat, were
Jamats from Tanzania, DRC, Congo, SA, Mozambique, and Uganda. Behind this
cohort sat the international Jamats. In total more than 44 countries were
represented at the darbar. I chose to sit with Nasreen's family rather than
with the Kenyan Jamat, because I really wanted to share the experience with
family, and I'm certainly glad I made that decision otherwise it would have
been an extremely lonely experience. Anis, because of problems with here
knees sat on a chair in the back of the hall, while Nasreen, Salim Uncle and
myself managed to find a spot two-thirds of the way from the front of the
stage where we managed a decent vantage point. There were, however, a myriad
of television screens both big and small assembled throughout the hall to
accommodate everyone regardless of the vantage point. There didn't appear to
be a bad seat in the house, and the smiles on everyone's faces confirmed that.
By 8:15am the entire hall - which had been expanded from the front of
Parklands JK through to the middle of the running track - was filled without
a bare spot in sight. At 9:00 the doors closed, and the missionaries began
to prepare the Jamat for the impending Irshad with little success. As
salwats, ginans and waizes were being delivered the palpable atmosphere that
was nascent on the plane, began to ripple throughout the entire
congregation. It took a significant amount of coaxing from the missionaries
to quiet the Jamat, and this was only achieved after it was announced that
Hazar Imam had left his residence and was on His way to the hall.
Hazar Imam arrived at the didar hall at 9:45, dressed in a dark suit, a
light shirt, and a simple patterned tie. The Jamat was able to view His
arrival to the hall by a live television feed from outside Parklands JK.
Hazar Imam was received by the MKs of Parklands JK and was escorted to a
private lounge custom built for Him where He was given time to change into
the ceremonial attire. During this time the Jamat began to recite salwat and
readied themselves for the upcoming Irshad.
At three minutes to 10 MHI walked into the hall. He was dressed in pearl
white, with the new Golden Jubilee robe adorning his frame. He was glowing.
His presence began a deluge of emotion, and has he walked along the red
carpet, this emotion began to ripple throughout the hall. There was seldom a
dry eye to be seen in the hall. Hazar Imam walked the entire length of the
hall, reciting "Khanavadan, Khanavadan" as he walked by, stopping briefly in
front of a special area for those with palliative physical conditions, and
in front of the seniors. He had a smile that lit up the room, and he seemed
very, very happy to be there. It took Hazar Imam about 10 - 12 minutes to
walk around the hall, at which point he ascended up the stage trailed
closely by the MK's.
The stage had been covered with plush white carpeting, with a simple white
chair placed in the middle. Behind the chair were three panels, the centre
one being the largest with the Golden Jubilee emblem emblazoned in the
middle. On the sides of the stage were olive branches, and an assortment of
flowers in red and white and laced with green foliage. Despite its
simplicity the stage was beautifully decorated, befitting a King who had
come to preside over his court.
The darbar began with presentations of Nazrana to Hazar Imam, followed by
recitation of ginans, a qasidah and Surah An-Noor, 24:35:
"Allah is the Light of the heavens and the earth.
The Parable of His Light is as if there were a Niche
and within it a Lamp: the Lamp enclosed in Glass:
the glass as it were a brilliant star:
Lit from a blessed Tree, an Olive,
neither of the east nor of the west,
whose oil is well-nigh luminous,
though fire scarce touched it:
Light upon Light!
God does guide whom He will to His Light:
God does set forth Parables for men: and God does know all things."
Following these token gestures, the President of the National Council for
Kenya formally welcomed Mowlana Hazar Imam to Kenya, and thanked him for his
spiritual leadership, and his benevolent guidance over the last fifty years.
The speech was simple, quaint, yet powerful, and encapsulated the sentiments
of the entire Jamat. During the President's speech which was to the right of
Hazar Imam, and stage left, he pointed to a silver microphone adjacent to
the lectern where Hazar Imam was to speak. The microphone he said, was the
same microphone that Hazar Imam had used when He addressed the Kenyan Jamat
as He ascended to the throne of Imamat in 1957.
At this point the camera turned from the President to Hazar Imam
who had closed his eyes, and was deep in thought. I can only wonder what He
must have been thinking, or feeling at that particular moment. Hazar Imam
then opened his eyes, smiled at the President, nodded his head in approval,
but continued to look at the microphone deep in thought. He did this for a
little while longer as the President delivered his speech, and appeared
removed from what was being said.
Preceding the President's speech, Hazar Imam stood up and slowly walked to
the lectern. He looked at the microphone He had been presented with, placed
his hand on the top of it, caressed the mic, smiled and then began to speak
from an adjacent mic.
Mowlana Hazar Imam began by thanking the Kenyan government for their
kindness and hospitality during his visit, followed by thanking the
volunteers, both badged and non-badged who had worked so diligently to
ensure a successful darbar and a productive visit.
"May your hearts dance in joy at today's celebrations" is how He began His
Irshad. It was a line he repeated four times during the Irshad. "Being
here, my heart is dancing in joy" He went on to add.
While I won't quote what was said in the Irshad, Hazar Imam did touch upon
several themes. He began by talking about how the forces of globalization
had put unprecedented demands on the individual, and shifted the paradigm
from the religious to the secular, resulting in a vacuum increasingly being
filled with excess materialism. The ideals of our faith, He proferred,
should not be compromised in this process, and He urged us to dutifully
attend Jamat Khane regularly, to keep the tasbih at hand, and to recite
Salwat whenever possible.
Hazar Imam then went on to talk about our material progress, saying that he
was immensely, immensely proud of our development over the last fifty years,
and our ability to assist His institutions achieve their mandates. He went
on to talk about how the notion of "Time and Knowledge" has been the bedrock
of our development, from the time of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and Hazrat Ali,
and was happy to have received the Time and Knowledge Nazrana from the
Kenyan Jamat which totaled more than a century and a half of man hours.
"Your contributions", He said,"have made my heart jump in joy..."
He went on to add that while we should be proud of our progress and
contributions in Kenya, and in the developing world in general, we should
not become complacent as there is still much, much more work to be done. He
said that He was concerned primarily about access to universal education and
health care in marginalized areas of the world where the Jamat is residing
particularly Afghanistan and Tajikistan.
He posited that He will be focusing His energies in two primary areas over
the next few years: Firstly, access to universal education and access to
quality health care for the "ultra poor" (at which point Nasreen and I
looked at each other and smiled, and she squeezed my hand), and secondly, in
working to provide a better quality of life for the aged within our Jamat.
As our longevity increases, He said, the quality our health towards the end
of life should increase proportionally, so that individuals can enjoy the
last years of life with relative physical comfort, and minimal suffering (
mothajee, as Mom likes to say). You will recall these are two of the three
themes He mentioned in His live speech to the Global Jamat on Imamat Day.
As an aside, it was this part of this irshad that particularly got to me, as
I have mentioned to you in previous e-mails, I have been working on the
first draft of a survey that will look at the health and well-being of the
EA Jamat. So to hear Him say that this was one of his priorities seemed to
validate the work I've been doing here at CHD over the last month, and
seemed to reaffirm my commitment to this field.
Hazar Imam spoke for about 15 - 20 minutes, and at which point He went on to
conclude with special blessings for the Ruhani members of our families, the
souls of the departed, and for our Mushkil Asaan. He added that He hoped
that Jamat would celebrate by playing dandia raas, and while He wished He
could join us He was unable to, but was with us in spirit. "May your hearts
dance in joy," He added.
He got up once again to thank the Jamat for its Nazrana contributions and
offered more blessings for our spiritual upliftment, and that our Barakat be
returned to us many, many over.
At this point, He got up and walked around the darbar hall once again, at a
slower pace than with which He had entered, but with the same smile adoring
His face, showering the Jamat with his blessings.
Hazar Imam then returned to His personal lounge were He changed into his
suit, thanked the MKs for their service, and then departed the Hall as the
band played. It was very difficult to see Him leave.
While all this was going on, the missionaries pleaded with the Jamat to
remain seated as Hazar Imam was still in the hall, and encouraged them to
recite Salwat. Despite this pleading the Jamat stood up, and began to share
their feelings on what had just transpired. Tears began to flow like rivers
down the cheeks of those young and old; those who had seen the Imam for the
first time in their life, and those who realized that this would be their
last to see Him in the temporal.
This was my darbar experience. While this letter barely touches what was
said, or what transpired, I hope it gives you a gist of what I was thinking
and feeling.
I want you to know that I missed you both very, very much. While it was in
some ways an elative, euphoric experience to be in the presence of the Imam,
it was also a very sad time for me given your absence. I was fortunate
enough to have had Nasreen there who held my hand at many points during the
Irshad, and gave me comforting smiles all throughout. She knew what it was
like for me, having been through it herself before, and did her best to help
me through the process.
Inshallah, the next time I have didar we will all be together, and may your
hearts always dance in joy...
With all my love,
--
lilly
Nairobi didaar - forwarded as received
Pleased to foward this running commentary of our Imam's
deedar in Nairobi by Rishu..............
Had very good deedar here in Nbi...it was well organized...deedar was at
10am they opened the hall at 4am, all volunteers had to report at 2am to
setup and also to go through security scanning (which is where I had a
duty from 2am to 10am)....
HI arrived a few mins before 10am, the hall was setup very well, the
stage was viewable nicely from all angles....volunteers such as myself
who had duty until the last minute actually were allocated space right
beside the stage (on the side of the stage, so we got the side view but
we were very close)
H.I farman was very powerful, although seemed short (or maybe just time
was flying !)....main points were
:
- Must build greater institutional capacity
- Institutions must think more globally, not just country specific but
must forge objectives/activities that are inter-state, e.g. He said
Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and other African jamati institutions should
work together and create programs that are global
- Jamati institutions NEED "good minds"....he then referred to is
special request for golden jubilee that he wants TIME and KNOWLEDGE seva
- Again emphasized that "good minds" should consider joining
institutions and work for it
- There were 44 countries represented at the deedar !
Although interestingly he referred to that as a potential concern since
he said the jamat has spread out so much around the world that he is
concerned if the jamat will remain united and if the jamat will be able
to work together on programs, etc as one jamat due to the extreme spread
out !
- His main emphasis for Africa will remain Education and
Healthcare....his vision is that decades down the road both Education
and healthcare would be world class in Africa
- Outside of the vision of improving quality of life, his two main
concerns remain....jamati members who are extremely poor and jamati
members who are old age...He is very concerned and said that he will
spend much of His time for the next 1 year during golden jubilee seeking
solutions in multiple countries for these 2 areas
- He once again emphasized that we must work united
- Emphasized on regular practice of faith...He said that you could take
your tasbihs and no-one around you would even know that you took
tasbih....this was in the context of the modern life where everyone is
busy and has no time.....His point was there is many ways of remembering
faith....even small few remembrances during the day
- He said that He was very happy....He began the farman saying He wanted
his jamat at the deedar to be happy and have your hearts dance in joy
- After being presented with Nazrana, He then came up again and said now
"My heart is dancing with joy" due to the beautiful nazrana and
gift....part of the nazrana was going to be time and knowledge !
I am sure I missed a few points....but this covers broadly....hope the
farmans are available soon in the JKs....
deedar in Nairobi by Rishu..............
Had very good deedar here in Nbi...it was well organized...deedar was at
10am they opened the hall at 4am, all volunteers had to report at 2am to
setup and also to go through security scanning (which is where I had a
duty from 2am to 10am)....
HI arrived a few mins before 10am, the hall was setup very well, the
stage was viewable nicely from all angles....volunteers such as myself
who had duty until the last minute actually were allocated space right
beside the stage (on the side of the stage, so we got the side view but
we were very close)
H.I farman was very powerful, although seemed short (or maybe just time
was flying !)....main points were
:
- Must build greater institutional capacity
- Institutions must think more globally, not just country specific but
must forge objectives/activities that are inter-state, e.g. He said
Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and other African jamati institutions should
work together and create programs that are global
- Jamati institutions NEED "good minds"....he then referred to is
special request for golden jubilee that he wants TIME and KNOWLEDGE seva
- Again emphasized that "good minds" should consider joining
institutions and work for it
- There were 44 countries represented at the deedar !
Although interestingly he referred to that as a potential concern since
he said the jamat has spread out so much around the world that he is
concerned if the jamat will remain united and if the jamat will be able
to work together on programs, etc as one jamat due to the extreme spread
out !
- His main emphasis for Africa will remain Education and
Healthcare....his vision is that decades down the road both Education
and healthcare would be world class in Africa
- Outside of the vision of improving quality of life, his two main
concerns remain....jamati members who are extremely poor and jamati
members who are old age...He is very concerned and said that he will
spend much of His time for the next 1 year during golden jubilee seeking
solutions in multiple countries for these 2 areas
- He once again emphasized that we must work united
- Emphasized on regular practice of faith...He said that you could take
your tasbihs and no-one around you would even know that you took
tasbih....this was in the context of the modern life where everyone is
busy and has no time.....His point was there is many ways of remembering
faith....even small few remembrances during the day
- He said that He was very happy....He began the farman saying He wanted
his jamat at the deedar to be happy and have your hearts dance in joy
- After being presented with Nazrana, He then came up again and said now
"My heart is dancing with joy" due to the beautiful nazrana and
gift....part of the nazrana was going to be time and knowledge !
I am sure I missed a few points....but this covers broadly....hope the
farmans are available soon in the JKs....
Nairobi+Dar es salaam + Kampala didaar testimony: Forwarded
YAM Family,
Each Didar was indeed unique. In fact, in all didars I have attended in my life,
never have I seen the Imam so happy! It was really noorani!
Enjoy the reading,
Ps: whatever is in brackets is a paraphrase and tkn=time and knowledge nazrana .
- "Today as we beggin the GJ didars, I wish that your hearts dance in
happiness!"+ hand movements!
- tkn a central theme. He wants the jamat everywhere to be the world
leaders in their own professional endeavor. "But you know this imam of
yours is very ambissious, you just have to accept it". But to prosper,
we have to give and for the 1st time every single murid has a way to
offer nazrana: tkn.
- "You have offered me a very generous time and knowledge nazrana and
now my heart is jumping in joy!"
- Seniors and ultra poor: there will be a soln by the end of GJ year
- "Quran has 1000's of interpretations and we need to identify the
correct ismaili interpretation."
- "Do not get hypnotised by the physical life, do not get hypnotised
bc if you do, it will be very damaging to your lives in the
hereafter."
- Practice of our faith and regular attendance: "I am aware of how
busy your material lives are but you must be regular in the practice
of our faith. This requires commitment from all of you to attend jk
regularly"
- "I have not asked your leaders, but I suspect you will be indulging
in dandia raas, and while you do so, I want you to know I will be
playing dandia raas with you with my heart and soul."
- "Let the warmth of outside be the warmth in your hearts in this day
of gj darbar!" "put all your worries aside and simply rejoice"
- "May this year of the GJ be a year of happiness! "
- "In the past, the Imamat has done whatever was reasonable to do
towards eliminating poverty and increasing the quality of life of the
areas where the jamat resides. Inshallah in the next few yrs, much
more will happen" and this is where a link was made to the tkn
nazrana.
Each Didar was indeed unique. In fact, in all didars I have attended in my life,
never have I seen the Imam so happy! It was really noorani!
Enjoy the reading,
Ps: whatever is in brackets is a paraphrase and tkn=time and knowledge nazrana .
- "Today as we beggin the GJ didars, I wish that your hearts dance in
happiness!"+ hand movements!
- tkn a central theme. He wants the jamat everywhere to be the world
leaders in their own professional endeavor. "But you know this imam of
yours is very ambissious, you just have to accept it". But to prosper,
we have to give and for the 1st time every single murid has a way to
offer nazrana: tkn.
- "You have offered me a very generous time and knowledge nazrana and
now my heart is jumping in joy!"
- Seniors and ultra poor: there will be a soln by the end of GJ year
- "Quran has 1000's of interpretations and we need to identify the
correct ismaili interpretation."
- "Do not get hypnotised by the physical life, do not get hypnotised
bc if you do, it will be very damaging to your lives in the
hereafter."
- Practice of our faith and regular attendance: "I am aware of how
busy your material lives are but you must be regular in the practice
of our faith. This requires commitment from all of you to attend jk
regularly"
- "I have not asked your leaders, but I suspect you will be indulging
in dandia raas, and while you do so, I want you to know I will be
playing dandia raas with you with my heart and soul."
- "Let the warmth of outside be the warmth in your hearts in this day
of gj darbar!" "put all your worries aside and simply rejoice"
- "May this year of the GJ be a year of happiness! "
- "In the past, the Imamat has done whatever was reasonable to do
towards eliminating poverty and increasing the quality of life of the
areas where the jamat resides. Inshallah in the next few yrs, much
more will happen" and this is where a link was made to the tkn
nazrana.
There are many many photographs of MHI's visit at:
http://picasaweb.google.com/ismailisoul ... 1319689858
http://picasaweb.google.com/ismailisoul ... 1319689858
Re:
Mwai Kibaki, Kenya’s Third President, Dies at 90kmaherali wrote: ↑Tue Aug 14, 2007 11:20 am KENYA HIGHEST AWARD TO HIS HIGHNESS THE AGA KHAN
Nairobi, August 13, 2007
President Mwai Kibaki congratulates His Highness the Aga Khan after bestowing him with Chief of the Golden Heart, the highest Kenyan award during a state banquet in his honour at State House, Nairobi. (photo)
He came to power promising to root out corruption and improve government transparency. But his tenure was blighted by widespread graft and a violent upheaval.
https://www.nytimes.com/2022/04/22/worl ... 778d3e6de3