Yesterday morning’s Darbar brought together Jamats from the jurisdictions of Kenya, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the Republic of Malagasy who had travelled to see their Imam.
Delivering his address on behalf of all the Jamats present, Ismaili Council for Kenya President Nawaaz Gulam expressed gratitude to Mawlana Hazar Imam for his leadership, vision and untiring commitment to improving the lives of the Jamat not only in the jurisdiction but throughout the world. President Gulam reflected upon the 60 years of Mawlana Hazar Imam’s period of Imamat with prayers that this may continue forever more.
During the Darbar, senior Jamati leaders of all countries present offered gifts to Mawlana Hazar Imam, each carefully selected to represent their country's cultural identity and it's resonance with the Jamat. These included a beautifully hand carved wooden chair “Kiti cha Enzi”; an antique French silver ewer and dish; and a 16th - 17th century Chinese blue and white porcelain water sprinkler, illustrating an Islamic influence, whose six spouts may be interpreted as each representing 10 years of the Imamat.
Mawlana Hazar Imam acknowledged the courtesies extended to him by the Government of Kenya. He also recognised the contribution of all volunteers, thanking them for making the Darbar such an immensely happy occasion for him.
Following the Darbar, Mawlana Hazar Imam was given a warm send off by young volunteers as well as Ismaili Band Troupes of Nairobi and Mombasa who had come together to perform for the Imam.
Mawlana Hazar Imam then travelled to the airport where Ambassador Monica Juma, Cabinet Secretary for Foreign Affairs and International Trade bid him farewell on behalf of the government. Jamati leadership were also present at the airport to wish their Imam farewell.