MWE Correspondent
Muslims across Tanzania gathered on Friday for Jumu’ah prayers, delivering a strong message of peace, unity, and national harmony amid calls for citizens to protect the country’s long-standing stability.
In Dar es Salaam, the Regional Sheikh, Walid Omar Al Hadi, led hundreds of faithful in prayer and reflection, reminding them of the painful lessons of past conflicts such as the Kagera War of 1978, which pitted Tanzania against the invading forces of former Ugandan dictator Idi Amin. He urged Tanzanians to learn from history and avoid divisions that could threaten the peace the nation now enjoys.
“Peace is the foundation of every nation. We must never take it for granted,” Sheikh Walid said in his sermon, which was delivered at the Dar es Salaam Regional Mosque. “The Kagera War taught us that once peace is lost, rebuilding it demands sacrifice, courage, and unity.”
Across the country—from Zanzibar to Mwanza—similar messages echoed in mosques as imams emphasized that Islam not only calls for worship but also for living harmoniously with others. Worshippers were reminded that acts of compassion, justice, and solidarity are among the greatest forms of devotion.
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The Friday sermons also highlighted the role of citizens in preserving national stability, particularly as the country moves through periods of political, social, and economic transition. Scholars noted that Tanzania’s legacy of coexistence among people of different faiths and ethnic backgrounds remains one of its greatest strengths.
Many believers expressed appreciation for the message, saying it served as a timely reminder that peace must be guarded by all. “When the Sheikh spoke about the Kagera War, it made me reflect on how far we have come as a nation,” said one worshipper outside the mosque. “We must never allow hatred or conflict to divide us again.”
Religious leaders across Tanzania have often played a pivotal role in promoting peace and guiding moral behaviour, especially during times of uncertainty. The continued emphasis on unity is seen as part of a broader effort to preserve the country’s social fabric and national identity.
The tone of the nationwide prayers reflected not just spiritual devotion, but also civic duty — a reminder that building and sustaining peace requires collective effort, patience, and goodwill among all citizens.
