Masjid Hayaat Recognizes FM Nyanti, Sherif for “Invaluable Service” to Islam, Education; Returning Pilgrims Pray for Liberia’s Progress
BY: Rufus Divine Brooks Jr.
WILSON CORNER, Brewerville, Montserrado County –Liberia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Sarah Beyslow Nyanti, and Alhaji Seko Ibrahim Sherif, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Sekou Ibrahim Sherif Islamic Institute, were honored Monday by Masjid Hayaat, also known as “Mosque of Life,” for their contributions to Islam and community development.
The recognition ceremony, coordinated by Mr. Varney Ali Sherif, celebrated the two for their long-standing support to worshipers, particularly in facilitating opportunities for Muslims to perform the Hajj in Mecca, Saudi Arabia.
Minister Nyanti was cited for her consistent backing of Islamic activities and her diplomatic achievements, including securing a US$124 million Memorandum of Understanding with the U.S. State Department, efforts to establish an ECOWAS Youth Center in Liberia, and Liberia’s recent election to a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council.
“This recognition is for your promotion of community development, empowerment of women and youth, academic and vocational support, and ensuring Liberia remains peaceful and well connected with all countries,” the citation read.
Sherif Recognized for Education, Mosque Building, and Transparency
Alhaji Sherif was honored for promoting Islam through education, mosque construction, social services, scholarships, and dawah, or Islamic outreach. Organizers praised his commitment to accountability and transparency.
As a token of appreciation, he was presented with a specially made traditional African attire.
The event also welcomed seven Liberian pilgrims returning from the 2024 Hajj, held June 16, 2024, in Mecca.
The pilgrims—Alhaji Abraham Momodu Kiadii, Haja Ma-Sangay G. Harris, Haja Ma-Matennneh Kabe, Haja Ma-Zinnah Gray, Haja Aisha Keita, Mamadee S. Kamara, and Imam Fuad Jaleiba—led intercessory prayers for the Government of Liberia, asking for national progress, peace, stability, and reconciliation.
The ceremony, organized by the United Women of Masjid Hayaat under Madam Mawata Dorley, drew high-profile Islamic leaders including Alhaji Sekou Fomba Sherif and Sheikh Hakebu Sherif.
It underscored the mosque’s tradition of honoring service and maintaining spiritual engagement with national affairs.