Thousands of Ismailis across Tanzania celebrated in the streets of Dar es Salaam, Mwanza, Dodoma, Morogoro, Mbeya, and Iringa through parade processions, which included colorful floats, Scouts Marching Bands, cultural music, and costumes. Each respective jamat walked alongside other Tanzanians as one large Tanzanian family and celebrated together alongside these floats, each float representing and showcasing a distinct theme and message related to Ismailis, the AKDN Institutions, culture and the Ismaili’s interconnectedness with their homeland, Tanzania.
At the Diamond Jubilee grounds in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa officially commemorated the Diamond Jubilee for the Tanzanian Jamat by unveiling the motif to the Tanzanian public.
Prior to the unveiling, the Prime Minister commended the work of Mowlana Hazar Imam via the AKDN Institution activities in the country.
“To him [the Aga Khan], overcoming poverty is not a gesture of charity but a moral obligation. His Highness as a spiritual leader demonstrates leadership and vision, which focuses on bringing hope and change to the community.”
The Prime Minister noted that the relation between the Government of Tanzania and the Ismaili Community has a historic bedrock of companionship dating back to the 19th century. He further went on to say that the Ismaili community’s historic roots in the country’s economy, specifically in banking, insurance, health, cultural preservation and social development, is evidence of The Aga Khan’s long-term vision for the betterment of Tanzania.
“I must confess my admiration for the way the Ismaili Community in Tanzania is coordinated and organized... a reflection of your leader His Highness... continue to demonstrate that spirit [of hard work, discipline, and patriotism] so that other communities in Tanzania could borrow a leaf from your good practices.”
Amin Lakhani, President of the National Council for Tanzania, emphatically stressed the importance of working with the Government of Tanzania and renewed the commitment of the Ismaili community toward the betterment of Tanzania.
“The bridge of understanding and respect the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania has accorded to His Highness and his institutions and to the Ismaili community over the last six decades, are indeed indelible touchstones in our belief in the nobility of partnership and pluralism toward a shared aspiration for a better quality of life for all.”
He also stated that the jubilee will be an opportunity to further progress the relationship with the Government of Tanzania with “significant goals and initiatives” to improve the quality of life for the people of Tanzania.
The Prime Minister was also presented with gift from the Ismaili Community – a Zanzibari chest - signifying the Island of Zanzibar, as the first entry point for Ismailis into Tanzania.
After the unveiling ceremony, Jamat enjoyed a day of festivities, including live music, dancing, and a carnival. Members of all ages celebrated in style, hosting six floats, led by the Police band and the Ismaili Scouts. The parade stemmed from Dar Khanna JK to Upanga JK and to Diamond Jubilee Hall, approximately 3.5 Km, stopping traffic in the city.
