60th Ahmadiyya Muslim Convention: Over 40,000 Gather in UK
More than 40,000 participants from over 90 countries converged in the United Kingdom for the 60th edition of the Jalsa Salana, the annual convention of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in Alton, Hampshire, United Kingdom. Held from July 24 to 26, the three-day gathering served as a platform to deepen religious knowledge while promoting peace, unity, […]
Held from July 24 to 26, the three-day gathering served as a platform to deepen religious knowledge while promoting peace, unity, and mutual understanding among people of diverse national and cultural backgrounds. Attendees engaged in religious teachings and discussions on pressing contemporary issues, with addresses from religious scholars, parliamentarians, diplomats, and civic leaders underscoring the value of dialogue, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence.
Cameroon’s Participation and Humanitarian Efforts
Speaking at the event, the National President of the Ahmadiyya Community in Cameroon, Alhadji Balla Ibrahim Baba, noted that the world is navigating a difficult period, making it essential for humanity to find pathways to peaceful living, regardless of religious differences.
He highlighted the Community’s humanitarian projects in Cameroon, including the construction of a school in Fulap, Noun Division, West Region, and the drilling of 156 boreholes across nine regions. « We are not all equal, and if people are in difficulties, it is our responsibility, if we have the means, to assist them if we are to live in peace, » Alhadji Balla stated.
Voices from the Continent
For Gabourey Souleyman, a participant from Burkina Faso, the convention is a vital avenue for sensitising the world to the urgent need for peace.
Abdelazeez Duro, from Nigeria, who attended with his nephews, said the values that unite the Community are holding firmly to the « rope » of Allah and seeking the guidance of its spiritual leader. « If humanity as a whole hearkens to the motto of Ahmadiyya ‘Love for All, Hatred for None’ I believe we all can live in harmony, » he said.
Keynote Addresses by Global Head
A central feature of the convention was the participation of His Holiness Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, the Worldwide Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, who delivered keynote addresses on each of the three days. His speeches focused on Islamic teachings and their relevance to addressing modern global challenges.
About the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community
Founded in 1889 by Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad in Qadian, India, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community emphasises the peaceful teachings of Islam, devotion to God, and selfless service to humanity. Today, the Community is established in more than 210 countries and territories, leading initiatives in peacebuilding, human rights, interfaith dialogue, and humanitarian service.
The United Kingdom chapter, established in 1913, now comprises over 130 branches and continues to uphold the Community’s enduring motto: « Love for All, Hatred for None. »
Moity Uwaifo Akonjang