Liberia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sara Beysolow Nyanti, and prominent Islamic education advocate Alhaji Seko Ibrahim Sherif have been honored by the Masjid Hayaat (Mosque of Life) Islamic community for their outstanding contributions to Islam, education, community development, and national service.
The recognition ceremony, held on Monday in Brewerville, also marked a homecoming celebration for seven Liberian pilgrims who safely returned from the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. The event featured special prayers for peace, national unity, and continued progress in Liberia.
Organized by the United Women of Masjid Hayaat under the leadership of Madam Mawata Dorley and coordinated by Mr. Varney Ali Sherif, the ceremony brought together Islamic scholars, community leaders, government officials, and worshippers to recognize individuals whose work has significantly impacted both the Muslim community and national development.
Foreign Minister Nyanti was presented with a citation honoring her continued support to Liberia’s Muslim community, particularly her role in facilitating and strengthening arrangements that enabled worshippers from Masjid Hayaat to undertake the sacred Hajj pilgrimage.
The citation also highlighted her broader diplomatic achievements and contributions to Liberia’s international profile, including efforts that led to the signing of a US$124 million Memorandum of Understanding with the United States Department of State, initiatives toward establishing a regional ECOWAS Youth Center in Liberia, and her role in Liberia’s successful bid for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council.
Organizers praised her commitment to inclusive development, describing her as a strong advocate for women and youth empowerment, education, and global cooperation.
“For your promotion of community development, empowerment of women and youth through academic, vocational and technical assistance, and your efforts to ensure Liberia remains peaceful and well connected with the international community, we proudly honor you,” the citation stated.
The award to Alhaji Seko Ibrahim Sherif, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Seko Ibrahim Sherif Islamic Institute, recognized his longstanding dedication to Islamic education and community upliftment across Liberia.
He was commended for his contributions to mosque construction, scholarship provision, Islamic evangelism (Da’wah), and humanitarian services aimed at supporting vulnerable communities.
Organizers also praised his integrity, accountability, and transparency in both religious and professional service. As part of the honor, he was presented with a specially designed traditional African attire in appreciation of his years of service.
“Your commitment to promoting Islam, supporting education, expanding opportunities through scholarships, and strengthening communities has positively impacted countless lives,” the citation noted.
The ceremony further served as a celebration for seven Liberians who recently completed the Hajj pilgrimage, one of the five pillars of Islam. The returning pilgrims included 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.
During a special intercessory prayer session, the pilgrims offered prayers for President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s administration, national reconciliation, lasting peace, political stability, economic progress, and unity among Liberians.
Islamic leaders used the occasion to urge citizens to uphold peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, and collective responsibility in advancing national development.
They emphasized the continuing role of religious institutions in promoting moral values, social harmony, and national cohesion, while calling on Liberians of all faiths to work together in strengthening peacebuilding and community development efforts.
The program concluded with prayers, presentations, and renewed commitments from the Muslim community to support education, humanitarian service, religious tolerance, and national unity across Liberia.
