In a heartwarming development for Islamic heritage preservation, a historic mosque in the village of Negash, Ethiopia — widely believed to be the site of Africa’s first Muslim settlement — has recently undergone renovation and restoration.
A Sacred Legacy
Negash holds a special place in Islamic history. It’s the land where the first group of Muslims, fleeing persecution in Makkah, found safe refuge under the protection of the Christian King of Abyssinia. This event, known as the First Hijrah, marked the beginning of Islam’s peaceful presence on the African continent.
The mosque in Negash is said to be among the oldest in Africa, symbolizing a long tradition of interfaith tolerance and Islamic roots in Ethiopia.
Renovation Efforts
The recent restoration was undertaken through a joint effort between local Ethiopian officials and international collaborators, with the goal of safeguarding this important Islamic heritage site. The work involved repairing the structure, conserving historical artifacts, and enhancing facilities to better accommodate both worshippers and visitors.
The project is not just about bricks and mortar — it’s about reviving a forgotten chapter of Islamic history that connects Africa, Islam, and the values of sanctuary, hospitality, and faith.
Why This Matters
In today’s rapidly modernizing world, numerous Islamic heritage sites face the danger of being overlooked or lost. The restoration of the Negash mosque serves as a powerful reminder of Islam’s deep-rooted history in Africa — dating back to well before the faith expanded to other regions of the world.
It also stands as a powerful symbol of peaceful coexistence — a time when Muslims and Christians lived with mutual respect and safeguarded one another. In our increasingly polarized world, this message holds greater significance than ever before.
A Call for Preservation
This moment invites us to reflect on the importance of protecting Islamic history beyond the Arab world — from Ethiopia to China to Spain. These sacred sites are not just landmarks — they are living stories that belong to all of us.
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