An Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) politician in Mombasa County, Said Abdalla, popularly known as Saido, has called on political leaders to work closely with religious institutions to guide young people towards moral and responsible living.
Speaking during an annual Qur’an recitation competition organised by the Said Foundation in Nyali Constituency, Saido emphasised the need for a coordinated approach between leaders and clergy to counter what he described as growing anti-religious influences among the youth.
He said the challenges currently facing young people require urgent intervention, noting that their present choices will have a lasting impact on their future.
“At the moment, youths are faced with numerous challenges,”
he said, adding that leaders must “roll up their sleeves” to ensure young people embrace religious teachings that can shape their character and leadership potential.
The event, held at Sheikh Zayed Hall in Nyali, brought together participants from across the county in a two-day competition marking the holy month of Ramadan. Saido said the initiative was part of efforts to reinforce religious values among the youth during the sacred period.
He argued that religious teachings remain a critical tool in nurturing disciplined and visionary leaders, urging stakeholders to invest more in faith-based programmes targeting young people.
“Whatever the youth are doing now will determine their future,”
he noted.
The competition’s chairman, who also serves as an imam, underscored the significance of the Qur’an during Ramadan, describing it as the most revered text in the Islamic faith during the holy month.
He revealed that more than 30 madrassas participated in the competition, with over 50 students taking part in the recitation contest.
The event highlighted the growing role of community and religious initiatives in shaping youth development, even as political leaders increasingly seek partnerships with faith-based institutions to address social challenges.
