By Ibrahim Sesay
The Aberdeen Aku Ebileh Foundation (TAAEF) on Sunday, 30th November 2025, successfully hosted the annual ‘Omokay’ Sarah at the Kaabatullah Masjid in Aberdeen, Freetown; an event that drew over one hundred participants and reinforced the organization’s mission of strengthening Islamic education and preserving Aku cultural heritage.
The gathering, which was marked by reflections, prayers and cultural performances, served as an important platform to promote Islamic teachings while celebrating traditions that have long defined the Aku community.
Welcoming guests, the Chairman of TAAEF, Alhaji Mohamed Salieu Elias Thomas, expressed deep appreciation to members of the Foundation for their dedication in organizing such a spiritually enriching and culturally significant event. He underscored the importance of imparting Islamic knowledge to younger generations, stressing that the community’s progress depends on the moral and spiritual grounding of its children.
Representing the Chief Imam, Alhaji Alusine Williams delivered remarks on the relevance of the Omokay Sarah in Islamic learning. He encouraged children and families to embrace Islamic education wholeheartedly, reminding the audience that the youth are the custodians of the Jamaat’s future.
One of the key highlights of the ceremony was the cultural lecture delivered by guest speaker, Alhaji Mohamed Salaam Savage, who elaborated on the history and values of Aku heritage. He commended TAAEF for reviving cultural consciousness in Aberdeen, noting that the community had previously lagged behind in the preservation of Aku traditions. “Since TAAEF was formed, Aberdeen has witnessed a remarkable awakening in Aku culture,” he said, applauding the organization’s consistent efforts in restoring pride and cultural identity among residents.
Delivering the vote of thanks, Alpha Ibrahim Babatunde Sesay, Vice Chairman and Secretary General of the Kaabatullah Masjid Jamaat, expressed gratitude to attendees for their support. He explained that TAAEF remains committed to promoting Islamic learning and development within the community, describing the event as a milestone; especially as nine male candidates successfully completed their Qur’anic studies.
He further announced that six teachers had been recognized for their exceptional contributions to Islamic education in the community. Those honoured with certificates were:
- Alhaji Ahmad Tejan-Rahman
- Alhaji Muhaiminu Rashid Davies
- Sheikh Olinne Jalloh
- Alhaji Osman Fofanah
- Kalokoh
- Alhaji Abdulai Kamara
Addressing the graduates, Ya Imam Alhaji Ibrahim Sanuai Macaulay urged them to remain disciplined and committed to continuous learning. He advised them to read the Qur’an daily in order to strengthen their fluency and deepen their understanding of Islamic teachings.
The nine graduates who completed their Qur’anic learning are:
- Alpha Labuda Conteh Esq.
- Alpha Sahid Cole
- Alhaji Muminie Thomas
- Alpha Ibrahim Cole
- Alpha Ibrahim Dad Matami Cole
- Alpha Sheku Kamara
- Alpha Mohamed Tejan
- Alpha Zinu Rahim
- Alhaji Tunde Magid Tejan
The ceremony concluded on a celebratory note with vibrant Aku songs and cultural expressions. The event was co-chaired by Alhaji Oshoba Nurudeen Aberdeen and Ashiru Taju Deen, who guided the programme to its colourful end.
