Over a century ago, a group of young men embarked on a remarkable journey to reignite the faith of their people. This noble quest was inspired by the vision of Yusuf Nyarko, who dreamt of his community praying behind white Muslims. Driven by this prophetic vision, the leadership sought out these white Muslims, ultimately locating the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at in Qadian. Without knowing much about their identity or doctrines, they took a leap of faith, selling properties to fund the mission and arrange for a missionary.

Led by Chief Mahdi Appah and his courageous daughter, Adwoa Nyansewa, who carried the funds, these pioneers journeyed on foot from Ekumfi Ekrawfo to Saltpond, a daunting 20-mile trek under the sweltering Ghanaian sun. They travelled not just with hope but with an unshakable conviction that they were fulfilling a divine purpose. Days later, with a palanquin borne on their shoulders, they brought this missionary to their small village, where a crowd eagerly awaited the man who would usher in a new dawn of faith. At his hands, they took bai’at, marking the beginning of a profound transformation in their spiritual lives.

As we enter the second century of the Jama’at, it is essential to honour the sacrifices of these trailblazers—Kwesi Bukar I, Kwesi Bukar II, Kow Sam, Kofi Saa, Kwame Yedu, and Bukar Adoba. May Allah be pleased with their souls. These young men heeded the call of their leaders, offering their lives, time, and energy to ensure the safe arrival of the new Imam to Ekrawfo. Their obedience and selflessness were critical in safeguarding the progress of Khilafat, standing as a testament to the power of faith-driven commitment.

A Legacy of Sacrifice

Although these young men lived in a time before the formal establishment of the Majlis, they embodied the spirit of the Khuddam pledge. Their unwavering commitment to bringing the missionary safely to their village demonstrated a profound dedication to their faith. Their sacrifices were not mere acts of duty but profound displays of devotion that resonated deeply within the fabric of the Jama’at.

Generations since have carried forward this torch of sacrifice, dedicating their lives, time, and honour to the Jama’at. Today, the baton rests in our hands, and we must ensure this legacy of service continues. The example set by these early pioneers is a clarion call for every generation to rise to the challenge of serving their faith with unwavering devotion.

Hazrat Musleh Maud (ra) profoundly reminded us in his poem, To the Nation’s Youth:

"We are continuing our work,
Somehow or other,
Be careful lest the Movement.
In your time may suffer."

This poignant caution serves as a call to action. If we falter in our responsibilities during our youth, we risk undermining the future of the Movement. We must act with purpose, ensuring that the spirit of devotion exemplified by those pioneers is passed to future generations. Their journey, culminating in the safe arrival of Maulvi Nayyar from Saltpond to Ekrawfo, stands as a timeless example of obedience and sacrifice.

Embracing Modern Responsibilities

Today, we are more educated and resourceful than our predecessors. The diversity of professionals within the Jama’at reflects this progress. Yet, Hazrat Musleh Maud (ra) reminds us:

"Should you become a statesman,
A general or a physician;
If your heart in Islam is not steeped,
You will not please us with your position."

Our achievements and expertise must align with the ethos of Islam, serving the Jama’at and humanity. Our professional successes gain true significance when they are channelled into sincere service, bringing pride and fulfilment. It is not enough to excel individually; our collective efforts must uplift and strengthen the Jama’at’s mission.

Building on the Foundation

While we may never match the monumental sacrifices of our forefathers, we can build upon their legacy. By placing bricks of sacrifice on the foundation of obedience they established, we honour their memory and strengthen the Jama’at. Every act of service, no matter how small, is a step toward preserving and advancing the mission they began. Guided by Allah, who has brought us this far, we can trust that He will continue to lead us forward.

In their time, these pioneers braved uncharted paths with little more than faith and determination. Today, we are equipped with knowledge, resources, and networks. Yet, the essence of our mission remains the same: to serve with humility, faith, and unwavering dedication.

May Allah enable us to serve the Jama’at with faithfulness and wholehearted devotion. Aameen.

By: Abdul-Hadi A. Keelson © 2025