Mangochi, Malawi — Tens of thousands of Muslims began streaming to the Old Airport in Mangochi Friday for the start of a three-day Islamic gathering that will likely attract over 10,000 Muslims to discuss the Quran and listen to sermons by Islamic scholars from Malawi, Zambia and Tanzania.
The three-day long National Islamic Ijtmah begins Friday and ends on Sunday.
According to the organizing chairperson, Sheikh Muhammad Idrissa, academics and professionals are expected to join millions of Muslim devotees from Malawi. All types of preparations including making different infrastructures and stage have been going forward with the participation of National Islamic Ijtma crew as well as volunteers.
To ensure water supply in the Ijtema several water tanks are being set up in the area including sufficient facilities of ablution places and over 45 toilets have constructed.
The gathering, held annually since 42 years ago, is one of the largest Muslim gatherings in Malawi and the world. It aims to revive the code of belief of Islam and promote peace through prayer. It has been organized by Muslim Association of Malawi before National Islamic Ijtmah organization took it in 2007.
However, Malawian Muslims have asked the organizers and guest of owners to tackle issues of HIV/AIDS, introduction of new Islamic university and many other challenges which affect Muslim community in the Country.