23/05/2026
A MUST READ!!!
An unfortunate situation has occurred, and I believe our Zongo communities need to reflect seriously on how we handle opportunities meant for our collective growth.
About five years ago, I helped secure sponsorship for a masjid project for a certain community (name withheld). Initially, the sponsors intended to construct a structure similar to the National Mosque, with a budget of nearly $10 million. However, after assessing the needs of the community, they decided instead to establish a full Islamic Centre, one that would include a large masjid, madrasa, clinic, conference facilities, and other important community services.
I personally advised that the community should provide land for the project since it would benefit everyone. However, the sponsors insisted on purchasing the land themselves, with the intention that once the project was completed, ownership could later be transferred to the community and the centre named after the community. (They were doing this for the sake of Allah and securing their own Jannah)
Sadly, after the land was secured, paid for, and documented with an indenture, the very same people who requested this project through me began creating obstacles. Every day, a new issue arises, from landguard problems to individuals suddenly claiming ownership of the land. (I personally signed these documents and made payments of the purchase of this land).
To protect the project, the sponsors quickly fenced the land and built a small structure so someone could stay there while construction began. Unfortunately, another individual has now threatened court action and an injunction against the project.
The sponsors have informed me that if the matter eventually goes to court, they may withdraw entirely from the project. Their goal was simply to invest in something beneficial for the community, but it now appears the same community is resisting it.
Since these problems began, countless meetings have been held, and money has been spent on settling disputes and engaging chiefs, opinion leaders, and others, yet the challenges continue after all these years.
It is painful because this community initially requested only a masjid, but they were offered something far greater that could uplift generations. Yet instead of supporting the process, some people appear more interested in personal gains or simply indifferent to the progress of Islam.
What makes it even sadder is that these actions are coming from fellow Muslims.
As Muslims, we must learn to support development, unity, and sincere efforts made for the benefit of our communities.
It is truly heartbreaking.
Written by Ismail Musah
