From Spiritual Diplomacy to Sustainable Development: Awqaf Africa Facilitates Historic Ghanaian Tijaniyya Leadership Visit to Malaysia

5–11 October 2026 | Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya and Selangor, Malaysia

In close cooperation with the Malaysian high Commission in Ghana, the Ghana High Commission in Malaysia and Awqaf Africa facilitated a significant visit by Ghana’s Tijaniyya spiritual leadership, bringing together religious diplomacy, Qur’anic scholarship, institutional cooperation, scientific research, humanitarian development and opportunities for sustainable partnerships.

— Original photograph of Sheikh Khalifa in conversation with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim outside Masjid Putra, Putrajaya, on 9 October 2026.]

Caption: A moment of spiritual diplomacy: Malaysia’s Prime Minister, YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, in conversation with His Spiritual Eminence Sheikh Khalifa Ahmad Abdulfadi Maikano following Friday prayers at Masjid Putra, Putrajaya.

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA — A visit rooted in faith and Qur’anic fellowship became an important opportunity to strengthen Ghana–Malaysia relations when His Spiritual Eminence Sheikh Khalifa Ahmad Abdulfadi Maikano (R.T.A.), Supreme Leader of the Tijaniyya Musli

 

m Ummah of Ghana and President of the Tijaniyya Muslim Council of Ghana (TMCG), visited Malaysia in October 2026.

Facilitated by Awqaf Africa in close cooperation with the Ghana High Commission in Malaysia, the visit brought together spiritual leadership, diplomatic representation and Malaysian institutions working across Islamic administration, education, humanitarian development, scientific research and enterprise.

The programme included participation in Malaysia’s 66th International Qur’an Recitation and Memorisation Assembly, institutional engagements with MAIWP, Yayasan Amal Malaysia and UKM–INBIOSIS, contact with representatives of JAKIM, and discussions involving Malaysian business stakeholders.

Among its most memorable moments were Sheikh Khalifa’s encounter with Malaysia’s Prime Minister, YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, at Masjid Putra, and the ceremonial launch of the 64th Annual Recitation of the Holy Qur’an of the Tijaniyya Muslim Council of Ghana inside the same mosque.

The delegation also celebrated the achievement of Niger’s Chafaatou Issoufou, who emerged champion of the women’s Qur’an memorisation category at the international assembly.

For Awqaf Africa, these engagements demonstrated how religious diplomacy can open opportunities for institutional relationships and sustainable development cooperation.

The programme was undertaken within the framework of the Ghana–Malaysia Sustainable Development & Human Capital Mission (GM26), which forms part of the broader Africa–Malaysia Sustainable Development & Huma

 

n Capital Mission.

A Warm Welcome and a Shared Diplomatic Effort

The delegation arrived at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) on Monday, 5 October 2026, at approximately 5:00 p.m.

Awqaf Africa, under the leadership of its President, Ibrahim Abdul Mugis, supported the delegation’s reception and coordinated institutional engagements in cooperation with the Ghana High Commission.

The central figures throughout the programme was H.E. Engr. Prof. Dr. Naail Mohammed Kamil, Deputy High Commissioner of Ghana to Malaysia and the High Commissioner Of Malaysia to Ghana, Mr. Syed Nauzer Idid Bin Syed Yusoff Idid.

The Deputy High Commissioner, H.E. Engr. Prof. Dr.

 

 Naail Mohammed Kamil accompanied the delegation during its engagements, provided diplomatic support and helped facilitate contact with Malaysian institutions and stakeholders.

His participation strengthened the diplomatic standing of the programme and demonstrated the importance of cooperation between Ghana’s diplomatic representation and civil-society organisations.

In a further expression of hospitality and solidarity, the Deputy High Commissioner graciously hosted His Spiritual Eminence and members of the delegation at his residence.

The gathering provided an opportunity for fellowship, reflection and conversations about strengthening the relationship between Ghana and Malaysia.

For Awqaf Africa, the cooperation with the Ghana High Commission represented an important example of how diplomatic missions and development organisations can work together to advance shared nation

al and continental interests.

 

Participation in Malaysia’s 66th International Qur’an Recitation and Memorisation Assembly

One of the principal components of the visit was participation in the 66th International Qur’an Recitation and Memorisation Assembly (MTHQA) 2026, held from 6 to 10 October at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur.

The assembly was officially opened on 6 October by Malaysia’s Prime Minis

 

ter, YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

Bringing together 50 participants from 38 countries, the gathering celebrated Qur’anic recitation, memorisation, scholarship and the preservation of Islamic knowledge.

His Spiritual Eminence and members of the Ghanaian delegation attended the opening and closing programmes, joining representatives of the international Muslim community in recognising the achievements of Qur’anic scholars and students.

The assembly provided a valuable opportunity for cultural exchange, scholarly fellowship and international religious engagement.

It also highlighted Malaysia’s longstanding commitment to promoting Qur’anic excellence and strengthening relationships among Muslim communities across the world.

 

Celebrating African Excellence: Niger’s Chafaatou Issoufou Wins International Championship

The closing programme of the international assembly provided a particularly proud moment for Africa.

Chafaatou Issoufou of the Republic of Niger emerged champion of the women’s Qur’an memorisation (hafazan) category, securing first place with 96.17 points.

Her achievement brought international recognition to Niger and reflected the strength of Qur’anic education and scholarship across the African continent.

His Spiritual Eminence Sheikh Khalifa joined in celebrating the achievement.

 

A commemorative photograph captured the Nigerien champion alongside Sheikh Khalifa, Ghana’s Deputy High Commissioner to Malaysia, a Philippine diplomatic representative and members of the visiting entourage.

The occasion reflected a wider sense of African solidarity and shared appreciation for Qur’anic scholarship.

For Awqaf Africa, Chafaatou’s success also reinforced the importance of investing in education, supporting young scholars and strengthening institutions that nurture African talent.

Her achievement demonstrated how educational excellence can become a source of pride and inspiration beyond national borders.

 

Outside Dewan Tun Hussein Onn showing Sheikh Khalifa, Chafaatou Issoufou, Ghana’s Deputy High Commissioner, the Philippine diplomatic representative and members of the delegation.]

Caption: Celebrating African excellence: His Spiritual Eminence Sheikh Khalifa and members of the delegation with Niger’s Chafaatou Issoufou, champion of the women’s Qur’an memorisation category at the 66th MTHQA 2026.

7 October: Strengthening Islamic Institutional Relations with MAIWP

On Wednesday, 7 October 2026, His Spiritual Eminence and the delegation paid an official courtesy visit to Majlis Agama Islam Wilayah Persekutuan (MAIWP), the Federal Territories Islamic Religious Council, in Kuala Lumpur.

The engagement provided an opportunity for dialogue between Ghanaian Islamic leadership and one of Malaysia’s principal Islamic administrative institutions.

Areas of shared interest included Islamic education, religious governance, waqf, zakat, community welfare and institutional capacity-building.

The visit also complemented Awqaf Africa’s ongoing engagement with MAIWP and its associated institutions in exploring practical pathways for cooperation with African stakeholders.

The discussion highlighted the importance of connecting respected religious leadership with institutions responsible for translating Islamic principles into sustainable programmes and community services.

For Awqaf Africa, the engagement formed part of a wider effort to strengthen relationships that may support future knowledge exchange, professional development and Islamic social finance cooperation.

.

 Sheikh Khalifa and the Ghanaian delegation during an official courtesy engagement with MAIWP in Kuala Lumpur.

Engagement with JAKIM: Building Religious Institutional Connections

Another significant aspect of the visit was the introduction of His Spiritual Eminence and the delegation to representatives of the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM).

The introduction was facilitated by Ibrahim Abdul Mugis, President of Awqaf Africa, as part of the wider programme of strengthening relationships between Ghanaian Islamic leadership and Malaysian religious institutions.

The contact provided an opportunity for mutual introduction and encouraged continued dialogue on matters of shared religious and institutional interest.

JAKIM’s role in Malaysia’s Islamic institutional landscape makes such engagement relevant to future conversations concerning Islamic education, religious administration, scholarly exchange and professional development.

The introduction represented an additional step in building relationships between African religious institutions and Malaysian stakeholders.

Humanitarian and Community Development Engagement with Yayasan Amal Malaysia

Later on 7 October, the delegation’s programme continued with an institutional engagement involving Yayasan Amal Malaysia.

The meeting explored opportunities for humanitarian cooperation, community development and collaboration between Malaysian and African civil-society organisations.

Discussions considered areas such as education, community empowerment, humanitarian programmes and practical social-development initiatives.

The engagement reflected Awqaf Africa’s approach to humanitarian cooperation, which emphasises the importance of institutional partnerships, local capacity and sustainable implementation.

Rather than treating humanitarian assistance as an isolated activity, the discussions explored how relationships could support longer-term community development.

 

Scientific Cooperation and Professional Training at UKM–INBIOSIS

The delegation subsequently visited the Institut Biologi Sistem (INBIOSIS), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), in Bangi.

The engagement broadened the programme beyond traditional religious and humanitarian cooperation to include scientific research, applied biotechnology, professional training and technology transfer.

Discussions explored potential areas of Malaysia–Africa cooperation, including agricultural biotechnology, natural-products research, laboratory competencies, scientific training and applied research.

Particular attention was given to the possibility of developing structured professional training and workshop opportunities for participants from Ghana and other African countries.

Boardroom discussion during the UKM–INBIOSIS visit.

Such programmes could enable African professionals, researchers and institutional representatives to acquire practical skills at Malaysian institutions and subsequently apply them within their home countries.

The discussions also considered opportunities for research collaboration and institutional knowledge exchange.

These proposals remain subject to further technical discussions, programme design, financial assessment and institutional arrangements.

For Awqaf Africa, the engagement demonstrated an important principle of the Ghana–Malaysia Sustainable Development & Human Capital Mission: sustainable development requires the integration of education, research capabilities, ethical leadership and economic opportunity.

 

 

— Group photograph with UKM–INBIOSIS researchers and the Ghanaian delegation.

Caption: The Ghanaian delegation explores scientific research, professional training and Malaysia–Africa knowledge cooperation at UKM–INBIOSIS.

8 October: Connecting Religious Diplomacy with Business and Enterprise

On Thursday, 8 October, the delegation participated in a business engagement involving representatives of the Malaysian International Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MICCI) at Yahala Restaurant in Bukit Jelutong, Selangor.

The meeting provided an opportunity to introduce the wider Ghana–Malaysia development mission and explore potential connections with Malaysian business and enterprise networks.

Topics of interest included entrepreneurship, responsible investment, halal-related industries, business networking, productive waqf, skills development and sustainable livelihoods.

The engagement reflected the importance of connecting institutional and educational cooperation with economic opportunities.

Within the GM26 framework, enterprise development is regarded as an important complement to education, scientific cooperation and community empowerment.

 

9 October: A Memorable Encounter with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim at Masjid Putra

One of the defining moments of the visit occurred on Friday, 9 October 2026, when His Spiritual Eminence Sheikh Khalifa and members of the delegation attended Jumu’ah prayers at Masjid Putra, Putrajaya.

Malaysia’s Prime Minister, YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, was also present, joining approximately 4,000 worshippers for Friday prayers.

Following the prayers, Ibrahim Abdul Mugis, President of Awqaf Africa, personally introduced His Spiritual Eminence to the Prime Minister.

According to Ibrahim’s firsthand account, the Prime Minister exchanged greetings with Sheikh Khalifa and requested du’a for himself and the people of Malaysia.

His Spiritual Eminence responded with prayers for the Prime Minister’s good health and long life, as well as for peace, unity, tranquillity and prosperity throughout Malaysia.

The exchange was brief but deeply meaningful to the visiting delegation.

It represented a moment of spiritual goodwill and mutual respect between Ghanaian Islamic leadership and Malaysia’s national leadership.

For the delegation, the encounter was particularly memorable because it took place in the sacred atmosphere surrounding Friday congregational prayers.

The occasion illustrated how personal engagement and religious diplomacy can contribute to mutual understanding and friendship between nations.

Original photograph showing Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim speaking with Sheikh Khalifa outside Masjid Putra.

 

A Historic Qur’anic Milestone: Launch of the 64th Annual Recitation of the Holy Qur’an Inside Masjid Putra

Another important occasion during the delegation’s visit was the ceremonial launch of the 64th Annual Recitation of the Holy Qur’an of the Tijaniyya Muslim Council of Ghana (TMCG) inside Masjid Putra, Putrajaya, on Friday, 9 October 2026.

His Spiritual Eminence Sheikh Khalifa Ahmad Abdulfadi Maikano presided over the launch in the presence of members of the visiting delegation.

The annual programme is scheduled to take place in Ghana on 9 December 2026.

The occasion was documented in a photograph taken inside Masjid Putra, showing His Spiritual Eminence seated with members of the delegation behind a ceremonial desk displaying the launch announcement and the date of the forthcoming programme.

Holding the launch within one of Malaysia’s most prominent mosques gave the occasion particular significance.

It connected the Tijaniyya Muslim Council of Ghana’s longstanding Qur’anic tradition with the wider international Muslim community and complemented the delegation’s participation in Malaysia’s 66th International Qur’an Recitation and Memorisation Assembly.

The two programmes are distinct: Malaysia’s international assembly celebrated Qur’anic excellence among participants from different countries, while the Tijaniyya Muslim Council’s annual programme represents a continuing religious and educational tradition in Ghana.

For Awqaf Africa, the launch highlighted the importance of supporting Qur’anic education, preserving Islamic scholarly traditions and strengthening international relationships through religious and educational engagement.

Original photograph of Sheikh Khalifa and the delegation during the ceremonial launch inside Masjid Putra. Use the authentic photograph with the approved transparent Awqaf Africa signature; preserve all original faces and details.]

Caption: His Spiritual Eminence Sheikh Khalifa Ahmad Abdulfadi Maikano and members of the Ghanaian delegation during the ceremonial launch of the 64th Annual Recitation of the Holy Qur’an of the Tijaniyya Muslim Council of Ghana, held inside Masjid Putra, Putrajaya, on 9 October 2026. The annual programme is scheduled for 9 December 2026.

Cultural Exchange and People-to-People Friendship

Alongside the official programme, the delegation experienced Malaysian hospitality and visited places of interest, including Putrajaya and Genting Highlands.

These activities provided opportunities for fellowship, cultural exchange and personal interaction.

Such experiences contribute to international cooperation by strengthening mutual understanding and trust.

The hospitality extended by Malaysian hosts and the Ghanaian diplomatic community reflected the warmth of the relationship between the two countries.

Delegation’s cultural visit or group photograph in Putrajaya or Genting Highlands.

Conclusion of the Visit: Appreciation and Reflection

The principal institutional and religious programme concluded on Saturday, 10 October, within the wider visit period of 5–11 October 2026.

The engagements provided an opportunity to reflect on the visit’s religious, diplomatic and institutional significance.

Following the completion of the visit, His Spiritual Eminence and members of the delegation returned safely to Ghana.

Awqaf Africa expressed its appreciation to the Tijaniyya Muslim Council of Ghana for the confidence placed in the organisation to facilitate the programme.

Special appreciation was extended to the Ghana High Commission in Malaysia, particularly H.E. Engr. Prof. Dr. Naail Mohammed Kamil, for his diplomatic support, active participation and generous hospitality.

Beyond the Visit: Advancing the Ghana–Malaysia Sustainable Development & Human Capital Mission

While the visit was rooted in religious diplomacy and spiritual fellowship, its significance extends beyond the ceremonial engagements and institutional meetings.

For Awqaf Africa, the programme strengthened relationships that may support future cooperation across several interconnected development areas.

Education and Human-Capital Development

Strengthening Islamic education, scholarly exchange, professional training, scholarships, scientific learning and institutional capacity-building.

Waqf, Zakat and Islamic Social Finance

Exploring sustainable approaches to community financing, institutional governance, productive waqf and social-impact programmes.

Humanitarian and Community Empowerment

Connecting religious institutions, humanitarian organisations and community stakeholders through practical development initiatives.

Science, Research and Innovation

Expanding opportunities for applied research, professional training, laboratory capacity development, biotechnology and knowledge transfer.

Enterprise and Sustainable Livelihoods

Encouraging entrepreneurship, responsible investment, business partnerships and productive economic activities.

Environmental Sustainability

Integrating responsible resource management, sustainable agricultural practices and environmental considerations into development programmes.

These priorities align with the three strategic pillars of the Ghana–Malaysia Sustainable Development & Human Capital Mission:

1. Education & Human Capital
2. Economy & Enterprise
3. Environment & Sustainability

The mission also seeks to ground its programmes in the principles of Maqasid al-Shariah and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

The longer-term objective is to move beyond relationship-building towards practical institutional cooperation, clearly defined responsibilities and measurable community impact.

The visit itself did not constitute the signing of formal agreements with the institutions engaged. Rather, it provided opportunities for dialogue, partnership exploration and the identification of possible follow-up initiatives.

A Message from the President of Awqaf Africa

Reflecting on the visit, Ibrahim Abdul Mugis, President of Awqaf Africa, highlighted the importance of cooperation between religious leadership, diplomatic institutions and development organisations.

“We are deeply honoured by the trust placed in Awqaf Africa to facilitate this important visit in close cooperation with the Ghana High Commission in Malaysia and the Malaysian High Commission in Ghana.

The presence and active support of H.E. Engr. Prof. Dr. Naail Mohammed Kamil throughout the programme demonstrated the value of working together to strengthen Ghana–Malaysia relations.

From our engagements with MAIWP and JAKIM to discussions with Yayasan Amal Malaysia, UKM–INBIOSIS and business stakeholders, the visit has shown that spiritual leadership, diplomacy, education, research and sustainable development can reinforce one another.

The memorable encounter between His Spiritual Eminence and Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, the celebration of Niger’s Qur’anic champion, and the launch of the Tijaniyya Muslim Council’s annual Qur’an recitation programme reflected the richness of the visit’s spiritual and educational dimensions.

Our responsibility now is to build upon these relationships and explore practical initiatives that can create lasting benefits for Ghana, Malaysia and the wider African continent.”

— Ibrahim Abdul Mugis, President, Awqaf Africa

Appreciation and Looking Ahead

Awqaf Africa extends its sincere appreciation to His Spiritual Eminence Sheikh Khalifa Ahmad Abdulfadi Maikano (R.T.A.) and the Tijaniyya Muslim Council of Ghana for the confidence and cooperation extended throughout the visit.

The organisation expresses particular gratitude to the Ghana High Commission in Malaysia, especially H.E. Engr. Prof. Dr. Naail Mohammed Kamil, for his invaluable diplomatic support, active participation and generous hospitality, and the High Commissioner Of Malaysia to Ghana, Mr. Syed Nauzer Idid Bin Syed Yusoff Idid for a prior facilitation.

Awqaf Africa also acknowledges the goodwill and cooperation extended by MAIWP, JAKIM, Yayasan Amal Malaysia, UKM–INBIOSIS, representatives of MICCI, and the many individuals and institutions that contributed to the programme.

The organisation congratulates Chafaatou Issoufou of Niger on her outstanding achievement at the international Qur’an assembly and recognises the contribution of African scholars and educational institutions to the preservation and transmission of Qur’anic knowledge.

Awqaf Africa remains committed to maintaining dialogue with relevant stakeholders and exploring appropriate follow-up initiatives under the Ghana–Malaysia Sustainable Development & Human Capital Mission.

As the delegation returns to Ghana, the visit leaves behind more than photographs, meetings and memories.

It offers a foundation for deeper relationships, sustained institutional dialogue and future cooperation connecting spiritual leadership with practical development.

From spiritual diplomacy to sustainable development, Awqaf Africa remains committed to transforming relationships into lasting impact.

Awqaf Africa — The Hope For Africa

Mission Framework: Ghana–Malaysia Sustainable Development & Human Capital Mission (GM26)

Continental Umbrella: Africa–Malaysia Sustainable Development & Human Capital Mission

Coordinating Organisation: Awqaf Africa

In Diplomatic Cooperation With: Ghana High Commission in Malaysia and the Malaysia High Comission in Ghana.