Hudha Foundation Distributes Iftar Packages in Eldoret Amid Calls to Keep Politics Out of Religion
Faraj praised the charitable activities, but he expressed concerns about increasing political pressure which he called political interference in religious spaces.
Chairperson of Imams North rift region Sheik Abubakar Bini. Photo by Achieng Kemuma.
By Achieng Kemuma
470 Vulnerable Mothers Benefit from Ramadan Charity
The Hudha Foundation sustained its 24-year practice by delivering support to vulnerable families through its Ramadan activities which began on the first ten days of the holy month.
The foundation distributed iftar packages to 470 needy mothers during the charity event which contained food bags1000 KSh 1200 value each. The first ten days of Ramadan are regarded in Islamic teachings as days of mercy, and the atmosphere reflected compassion and unity as volunteers handed out the supplies.
“Alhamdulillah,” members of the community said in gratitude as the beneficiaries received essential food items meant to sustain them during the holy month.
Mahboub Faraj, a local resident who addressed the gathering, said the foundation carries out similar initiatives throughout Ramadan.
Faraj said “We do this in the first, second and last ten days of Ramadan. Today, we’ve been blessed to help 470 mothers.”
He explained that the charity work is supported through zakat contributions from Muslims, describing it as a self-sustaining system rooted in Islamic principles of helping the needy.
Leaders Warn Against Mixing Religion and Politics
Faraj praised the charitable activities but he expressed concerns about increasing political pressure which he called political interference in religious spaces.
“Politicians fill stadiums for campaigns while ignoring citizens’ needs,” he said. “The Constitution prohibits government workers from leaving their offices to attend rallies. The current situation calls for service to the public instead of political activities.”
Religious leaders including imams and sheikhs should avoid political affiliations which could bring them personal benefits because this conduct leads to church divisions according to his warning.
“We have seen churches teargassed during protests. We don’t want that in mosques,” he said. “Innalillahi wa inna ilaihi rajiun. Politicians should handle their political business without our involvement.”
Faraj emphasized the need to separate religion from political campaigns, especially with elections slightly over a year away.
The long lines that people have to wait in for food exist because of poor governance according to him while he described various socio-economic difficulties that citizens face.
The event highlighted the urgent needs of North Eastern Kenya community members who suffer from drought conditions while donors were requested to provide assistance to those affected.
Quoting a hadith, Faraj reminded the faithful of the reward of generosity: “Whoever breaks the fast of a fasting person earns equal reward.”
This year Ramadhan overlaps with the Christian Lent period which he believes will promote interfaith understanding.
“Fasting is prescribed in the Quran as it was for those before us. Muslims and Christians fasting together — though pastors might not fast!” he said lightly, drawing laughter from the crowd.
Widow Fatma Njeri expressed her gratitude to the donors who helped her become one of the beneficiaries.
“She dedicated her gratitude to all people who help others by supporting orphans and widows and disabled people and needy individuals in Eldoret for two decades. “Today, over 500 people have received aid. May Allah bless the donors in their work, marriages and partnerships.”
She said that the support helped families who struggled to buy basic necessities like milk and rice while she asked Muslims and Christians to keep working together.
The event speakers denounced the growing political violence which uses young people to create disturbances during holy months that should focus on spiritual introspection.
“Fasting requires people to stop eating food while they must also give up all their curses” according to Faraj who quoted the Prophet.
The initiative concluded with prayers for peace unity and continued generosity as leaders urged Kenyans to embrace mercy and service to humanity over division and political conflict.
About Author
