A 198-Year-Old Mosque Set To Be Demolished In Mbalizi

The historic mosque that has stood for 198 years in the small town of Mbalizi, in the Mbeya region, is expected to be demolished to make way for the construction of the Mbalizi-Makongolosi Road.

This statement was made by the Chunya District Commissioner, Mbaraka Batenga, who was speaking on behalf of the Mbeya Regional Commissioner, Juma Homera, during the Maulid celebration held in Mbalizi on the night of Monday, September 30, 2024. The announcement comes as part of the region’s infrastructure development efforts, which include the construction of this major road that will cut across several areas, thus necessitating the removal of the mosque, despite its long history and significance to the local community.

Sheikh Mtawa Kapalata, the Secretary of the Tanzania Muslim Council (Bakwata) for the Mbeya Region, expressed that they had long requested the mosque not be demolished, but their plea was unsuccessful. He mentioned that they ultimately had to accept the inevitable, as they could not stand in the way of progress and development that would benefit the larger community.

“We have already started building another mosque, ensuring that it is outside the area affected by the road construction. The history of this mosque will remain on paper as a testimony of its existence as an old and revered place of worship,” said Sheikh Kapalata.

The mosque in Mbalizi is not just a building but a significant part of the Islamic heritage and history in the region, having served generations of worshippers over nearly two centuries. It has been a symbol of faith, community, and resilience. Its upcoming demolition highlights the often challenging balance between preserving history and embracing modernization. This development has stirred emotions among local residents, as it marks the end of an era, but many agree that infrastructure growth is essential for regional connectivity and economic development.

Local leaders and the Muslim community have vowed to preserve the memories and stories of the historic mosque. Plans are being made to document its history thoroughly, ensuring that future generations will know about the mosque’s existence and significance in Mbalizi.

This demolition highlights a common theme in rapidly developing regions, where historical landmarks face challenges as they make way for new infrastructure projects. However, the Muslim community in Mbalizi has demonstrated a sense of acceptance and willingness to adapt, even as they let go of a cherished symbol of their faith and heritage. The new mosque that they are constructing symbolizes continuity, showing that, while physical structures may change, the spirit of worship and unity remains strong within the community.

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