Excitement, joy and the sounds of flutes and drums of the Aga Khan Scouts Marching Band filled the early morning air at Upanga Jamatkhana in Dar es Salaam for the flag hoisting ceremony. This event marked the conclusion of Mawlana Hazar Imam’s Diamond Jubilee year.

The commemoration began with an official march by the Aga Khan Scouts and Girl Guides, followed by a procession, which included leaders of all Dar es Salaam Jamatkhanas, institutional members, and various Jamati committee members and volunteers.

The Vice President of the National Council for Tanzania and Zambia, Kamal Khimji, addressed the Jamat and said, “Today’s Khushiali is a historic one for all Ismailis around the world. Today we are blessed with the unique opportunity to make the conclusion of Mawlana Hazar Imam’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations.”

He recapped the programs that were organized for the Jamat by various National Task Force teams. He noted, “There were six themes that were presented by the national task force for the jubilee programs and activities, which helped us gain firsthand knowledge and understanding of various aspects of the diamond jubilee goals set by Mawlana Hazar Imam. It is now our duty to support in the achievement of these goals through the contribution of our time, knowledge and other resources. The council is working on various strategies and programs towards achieving these goals.”

Following this speech, there was a vocal performance by Jamati members who sang a rendition of Salim Suleiman’s “Jubilee Mubarak” and a grand finale of a dance performance by youth members.

Similar flag hoisting ceremonies were also held in Jamatkhanas around country.