Quran recital competition showcases Tanzania’s stability, says President Mwinyi

Dar es Salaam. Zanzibar president Hussein Ali Mwinyi has described Tanzania’s hosting of the international Quran recital competition as a testament to the country’s ability to organise major global events.

Speaking during the event hosted by charity organisation, Al-Hikma Foundation, on Sunday March 16, President Mwinyi emphasised that the competition also underscores Tanzania’s reputation as a peaceful nation capable of hosting international gatherings, including conferences and summits.

“This competition is a reflection of the freedom of worship that exists in our country. It demonstrates that Tanzania provides ample support for religious activities, regardless of differences in faith or sect,” he noted.

He further added that the initiative, established by our nation’s founders, plays a crucial role in fostering unity, solidarity, and preserving the peace and stability we enjoy.

Greatest inter-continental Quran competition

Dubbed the Greatest Inter-Continental Holly Quran Competition, the contest now in its 25th year, attracted participants who travelled from various nations including Uganda, Kenya, Ivory Coast, Nigeria, Burundi, Rwanda, Namibia, Morocco, Egypt, Australia, the United Kingdom, Guyana, the United States, and Russia.

Dr Mwinyi also commended the Al-Hikma Foundation for organising the competition and thanked sponsors for their contributions to the event.

He noted that the event coincided with the holy month of Ramadhan, during which the Quran was revealed.

“As we observe this sacred period, we should continue seeking Allah’s forgiveness while also maintaining our tradition of supporting one another,” he added.

Tanzania’s Chief Sheikh and Mufti, Zuberi Ali Mbwana, highlighted the significance of the competition in strengthening Islamic unity and reinforcing peace and harmony in the country.

“We Tanzanians are privileged to have dedicated overseers of Quranic affairs, which contribute significantly to national stability, love and global Islamic brotherhood,” said Sheikh Mbwana.

He urged Tanzanians to take the opportunity to advance forward, noting that the Quran serves as a guide and a source of enlightenment.

“We must use this blessing to progress; we should not move backwards,” he said.

The International Quran Recitation Competition brought together participants from different parts of the world, fostering cultural exchange and religious dialogue.

Contestants from across the world showcased their exceptional Quran recitation skills in the competition where the ultimate winner walked away with a grand prize of Sh30 million.

The first winner emerged from Russia

Tanzania was represented by three participants—one from Mainland Tanzania, another from Zanzibar, and a third representing the Al-Hikma Foundation, the organisers of the competition.

The championship, regarded as one of the most significant in the world, began as a regional contest in Dar es Salaam.

It later expanded to a national level, then to the African continent, and has now grown to include participants from across the globe.