By Lincoln G. Peters
Wilson Corner, Brewerville, Montserrado County – Liberia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Madam Sara Beyslow Nyanti, and Alhaji Seko Ibrahim Sherif, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Sekou Ibrahim Sherif Islamic Institute, have received prestigious Islamic honors in recognition of their long-standing contributions to the Islamic faith and their commitment to community development.
The recognition ceremony, held on Monday, June 28, 2026, was coordinated by Mr. Varney Ali Sherif at the Masjid Hayaat (Mosque of Life) in Wilson Corner. Both honorees were cited for their exceptional dedication to Islam, education, and national development.
Nyanti Cited for Support to Pilgrims, Diplomatic Achievements
Presenting the citation, organizers praised Minister Nyanti for her unwavering support of Islamic activities, particularly her role in affording worshipers of the mosque the opportunity to travel to the Holy Land of Mecca for the Hajj — a gesture described as central to her recognition.
The citation also highlighted the Minister’s active diplomatic engagements, including a US$124 million Memorandum of Understanding with the U.S. State Department aimed at strengthening global partnerships, as well as her efforts to establish the regional ECOWAS Youth Center in Liberia.
“Your promotion of community development, empowerment of women and youth, and provision of academic, vocational, and technical assistance have earned you this recognition,” the citation read. “We also honor your diplomatic efforts that secured Liberia’s non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council and your initiatives for community development.”
The organizers noted that Minister Nyanti has been instrumental in ensuring Liberia remains peaceful and well-connected with nations worldwide.
Sherif Honored for Promoting Islam, Education
Alhaji Seko Ibrahim Sherif was recognized for his outstanding contributions to the expansion of Islam and education across Liberia. The citation praised his transparency and accountability in all endeavors, as well as his role in constructing mosques, providing social services, and advancing Islamic knowledge through scholarships and dawah (evangelism).
As a token of appreciation, Mr. Sherif received a specially made traditional African attire, symbolizing the organizers’ profound gratitude for his service to the faith and community.
Pilgrims Offer Intercessory Prayers for National Stability
In a solemn highlight of the ceremony, seven Hajj returnees — who performed the pilgrimage in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, on Sunday, June 16, 2024 — offered intercessory prayers for the Government of Liberia, focusing on national progress, peace, stability, and reconciliation.
The honored 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.
The event, organized by the United Women of Masjid Hayaat under the leadership of Madam Mawata Dorley, featured a celebration service that combined spiritual devotion with community engagement. High-profile Islamic leaders, including Alhaji Sekou Fomba Sherif and Sheikh Hakebu Sherif, were also in attendance.
Tradition of Recognition Continues
This is not the first such event organized by the mosque. Last year, a similar ceremony was held following the return of several pilgrims, underscoring the mosque’s continued commitment to honoring those who serve both the Islamic community and the broader Liberian society.
Monday’s event highlighted the profound connection between faith, community service, and respect for political leadership — a testament to the enduring values of unity and spiritual devotion that continue to strengthen Liberia’s social fabric.
