VP Jalloh Launches Al-Ridwan Complex and Masjid Development Project.

The Hon. Vice President of Sierra Leone, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, on Saturday, 20th September 2025, joined the Muslim Jamaat of Al-Ridwan Masjid, Lumley, for the official launch of the Al-Ridwan Complex and the groundbreaking ceremony for the newly constructed Al-Ridwan Masjid.

In his address, the Hon. Vice President commended the resilience of the community, noting that their sacrifices and collective effort had finally created space for both spiritual growth and social development.

He described the project as a turning point that would bring dignity and pride to the people of Lumley, who had long yearned for such an opportunity.

Speaking to the congregation, Dr. Jalloh emphasized that leadership and faith must go hand in hand, urging citizens to view the new mosque as more than just a physical structure.

 He called it a center for unity, moral guidance, and shared responsibility, where respect and integrity should be practiced daily.

The Vice President reminded the audience that every contribution no matter how small it is, counts toward building lasting legacies, just as every brick contributes to the future of the Al-Ridwan Masjid.

Dr. Jalloh also expressed gratitude to international partners, including the Egyptian Embassy and other diplomats present, for their solidarity with Sierra Leone’s Muslim community.

He concluded with prayers for peace, long life, and blessings for all contributors, affirming that the Al-Ridwan Complex and Masjid would stand as a symbol of faith, unity, and shared responsibility for generations to come.

Deputy Minister of Social Welfare, Alhaji Mohamed Haji Kella, described the launch as a historic moment for Lumley, noting the community’s long struggle to secure the land.

He highlighted that the project, made possible through government support and partnerships, reflects the resilience and determination of the people.

The Deputy Minister praised the Vice President’s role and acknowledged the commitment of all stakeholders, stressing that the mosque would serve not only as a place of worship but also as a legacy of unity and faith for future generations.

Project Manager, Ing. Abdul-Alim Isreal Allen, outlined the scope of the ambitious development, describing it as a landmark initiative designed to serve both spiritual and social needs.

He explained that the complex wouldl include five key components: a grand mosque with a dome capable of accommodating about 7,000 worshippers; 29 standard classrooms; a modern clinic with offices; a library; and a secure perimeter wall with proper drainage facilities. Each floor of the mosque he said, would cover approximately 1,400 square meters, standing 12 feet high, and is designed to become one of the most remarkable Islamic structures in Sierra Leone.

Ing. Allen further revealed that architectural and structural designs have been completed, with soil investigations determining the required foundation.

 He however cautioned that, funding remains a major challenge, as only about 500 million Leones have been raised to date.

He appealed to partners, philanthropists, and the wider Muslim community to support the project, stressing that every contribution would help bring the vision to life.

“This is the house of Allah,” he said, calling for collective commitment to ensure timely delivery of the project for the benefit of future generations.

Sheik Alusine Tejan Kamara, speaking on the importance of both spiritual and physical upkeep, reminded the community that maintaining a mosque is a shared responsibility.

Tracing Lumley’s long history of Islamic growth since the 1970s, he urged community members to contribute collectively to the project’s success. Using the metaphor, “little drops of water make a mighty ocean.”

He encouraged every believer to support not only with financial contributions but also with prayers and dedication, so the mosque would stand as a lasting legacy.

The launch concluded with prayers and generous donations from various Muslim Jamaats, business leaders, government officials, and other stakeholders.

These contributions boosted the community’s confidence and strengthened hopes that the project would be successfully completed.