Tag: Islam

  • My son now has a better mom because of Islam – Akuapem Poloo

    My son now has a better mom because of Islam – Akuapem Poloo

    Actress and social media influencer, formerly known as Akuapem Poloo but now embracing the name Haniya in Islam, has been profoundly touched by her recent pilgrimage to Mecca to perform Umrah, a sacred journey akin to the Hajj.

    In a candid conversation with Graphic Showbiz, Haniya shared the depth of her emotions and the immense gratitude she feels after her pilgrimage. She spoke of the overwhelming yet deeply fulfilling moments she experienced, like walking between the hills of Safah and Marwa and reaching out to touch the sacred Kaaba in Mecca.

    Looking back on her spiritual odyssey, Haniya emphasized the positive impact Islam has had on her life, expressing her gratitude for the newfound sense of purpose and peace it has brought her.

    “Islam has really changed my way of life. I don’t take in alcohol anymore and I have become a better woman and mother to my son. I don’t do stuff that will make him feel bad and I get much respect from my social media fans and I’m always at peace.”

    Describing her conversion as a transformative experience, she highlighted significant changes such as abstaining from alcohol, enhancing her parenting skills, and earning respect from her online followers as tangible results of her faith journey.

    Although she initially faced challenges adapting to Islamic practices, she now wholeheartedly embraces them. She attributes her successful transition to the guidance of Islamic leaders and the unwavering support of her Muslim community.

    “It was not easy from the onset with some of the Islamic teachings and practices,” she admitted. “However, with determination, perseverance and encouragement from Islamic leaders who helped me in converting and my Muslim friends, I am now enjoying the practices with ease despite my imperfections.”

    Akuapem Poloo underlined the splendor of Islam, underscoring the unity in worshipping one God and the profound tranquility she has discovered in her faith.

    Overflowing with gratitude for her spiritual path, she expressed heartfelt appreciation to Allah, Chief Imam Sheikh Usman Sharubutu for his guidance, and Alhaji Abdul Salam for facilitating her pilgrimage.

  • Mansa Musa I: Richest & most influential African King in History –

    Mansa Musa I: Richest & most influential African King in History –

    Mansa Musa I, also known as Musa Keita I, was the tenth emperor of the Mali Empire, which was among the most prominent empires in West Africa. He is widely regarded as the richest person in history, with an estimated wealth exceeding $400 billion. His reign spanned from 1312 to 1337, and his opulence has earned him a place among the wealthiest individuals in recorded history.

    Early Life and Rise to Power:

    Mansa Musa I, born in 1280 in the town of Niani (now in Guinea), had a notable lineage as the son of Faga Laye, a revered leader of the Mandinka people and the founder of the Mali Empire. Additionally, he was the brother of Sundiata Keita, the renowned founder of the Mali Empire.

    Mansa Musa I ascended to power following the expedition of Abu-Bakr II, who is said to have ventured across the Atlantic Ocean. Due to his immense wealth and military strength, Mansa Musa I was chosen as Abu-Bakr II’s successor.

    Wealth and Achievements:

    Mansa Musa I was known for his immense wealth and generosity. He was a devout Muslim who went on a pilgrimage to Mecca in 1324 accompanied by a caravan of thousands of people and carrying a vast amount of gold, which he distributed along the way. This pilgrimage made him famous throughout the Middle East and Europe, where his wealth and power were widely noted.

    During his reign, Mansa Musa I helped to expand the Mali Empire by annexing new territories and establishing diplomatic relations with neighboring states. He also encouraged the spread of Islam throughout the empire and built many mosques and Islamic schools.

    Mansa Musa I was also a patron of the arts and commissioned the construction of many impressive buildings, including the Djinguereber Mosque in Timbuktu, which is still standing today.

    Death and Legacy:

    Mansa Musa I died in 1337 and was succeeded by his son, Maghan I. He is remembered as one of the most influential and powerful African rulers in history and his legacy lives on today in many ways.

    His pilgrimage to Mecca and the immense wealth he displayed during his journey inspired many leaders and traders across the world, and his legacy helped to establish the Mali Empire as one of the most prosperous and influential in the region.

    His patronage of the arts and architecture also helped to establish a rich cultural heritage in West Africa that continues to flourish today.

  • 6,000 Ghanaians set to perform Hajj this year

    6,000 Ghanaians set to perform Hajj this year

    As part of the five pillars of Islam, an estimated 6,000 Ghanaians are anticipated to participate in this year’s Hajj pilgrimage.

    As such, a first set of over 400 Muslims have left Accra for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to perform the Hajj.

    This comes after the first flight for the pilgrimage was delayed due to technical challenges.

    Communications Director for the Hajj Board, Alhaji Rahman Gomda made this known in an interview in Accra on Monday.

    “The flight has taken off already. 437 [persons] have taken off to Saudi Arabia. The aircraft came yesterday to start the flight, the maiden flight from Accra. So the second one has taken off. We will have the third one tomorrow and another one on Thursday.”

    “This year we had a quota of 6000. Every year, the Saudi authorities give quota. Ghana’s quota this year is 6,000. Last year it was 3,069 as a result of COVID-19,” he stated.