Jamia Mosque, Nairobi

Jamia Mosque is a significant Islamic center in the East and Central African region. It stands as an iconic landmark and architectural masterpiece in the heart of Nairobi's CBD. Founded by Syed Maulana Abdullah Shah in 1902 and constructed between 1925 and 1933, Jamia Mosque has been a focal point for Muslim religious activities and organization during both the pre-independence and independent eras.

The mosque holds great importance to Nairobi's sizable Muslim population, serving as the preferred location for Friday prayers. Over the years, Jamia Mosque has become a gathering place for Muslim religious, political, and intellectual leaders, who convene to discuss matters concerning the ummah (the Muslim community). In many ways, Jamia Mosque's history reflects the broader story of Islam in Kenya—a tale of seeking identity within a diverse mosaic of cultures and traditions.

Jamia Mosque underwent an extension in 1998, resulting in the addition of a modern wing. The mosque now houses a spacious library, a multi-purpose hall, a weekly newsletter called The Friday Bulletin, and even its own television station—Horizon TV. The Jamia Training Institute (JTI), previously situated within the mosque complex, was relocated to Jamia Towers to create additional office space for the mosque and Horizon TV marketing.

Architecturally, Jamia Mosque retains a classic Arabic Islamic style, characterized by the abundant use of marble and Quranic inscriptions. The mosque's design features three striking silver domes and twin minarets, which contribute to its distinctive appearance. Adjacent to the mosque, a row of shops, including a clinic and pharmacy, generates rental income to support the maintenance and upkeep of the mosque.