Two new mosques at Kafuta Fula-kunda and Duwasu, respectively  in the Kombo East District, funded by Mosque Appeal and Charity Network (TCN), based in the United Kingdom through the Ann Asru Deen and Development, a registered charitable organisation in The Gambia were recently inaugurated, at a ceremony held at various villages in Kombo East District, Western Region.

Speaking to the Daily Observer, Hatab Hydara, Chairman of Ann Asru Deen and Development, said the construction of mosques is an important aspect in Islam, adding that it’s a move in the right direction.

According to him, apart from building mosques his association also provides Arabic teachers for Madarassa schools in the country. “We also sponsor orphans, give out Ramadan meals (Iftar) to the needy people, among other things. We intend to build a school of excellence for Arabic students in the near future,” he said.

For his part, Hamat Bah, Secretary General of the Association, said the two mosques were constructed at a tune of ten thousand pounds (10,000 pounds) and that work at the sites lasted for about six months. He described the two mosques as magnificent, noting that people in these areas should be commended for their hard work and dedication during the construction process. “Though there were some obstacles during construction periods, we were able to overcome them. We are working on plans to introduce a grand scholarship for students next year. I would like to commend the donors, Mosque Appeal and Charity Network (TCN) in the U.K for their support,” he added.

Delivering his Friday sermons at Kafuta inauguration ceremony, Alhagie Banding Drammeh, President, Supreme Islamic Council (SIC), said building mosques is another mark of obedience towards the religion of Allah (Islam).

“I wish to commend the sponsors for their sense of patriotism. Now that the mosques are ready, we should stop praying in our houses and pray in congregation, as it’s more rewarding than individual prayers,” he said.
The Supreme Islamic Council boss used the occasion to advise people to be good Muslims, adding that as Muslims our deeds and actions should be in accordance with the teachings of the Holy Book (Qur’an) and hadiths.

The inauguration ceremony at both locations was graced by hundreds of Muslim worshippers from The Gambia and beyond, including several religious leaders.