Visit to the Jamia mosque in Nairobi

Kenya's history with Islam goes back a long way. Islam has been present in Kenya for centuries, flourishing especially off the country's paradisiacal coasts. Indeed, towns such as Mombasa proudly display their archaeological remains and contemporary architecture, bearing witness to the strong Muslim presence in this part of Kenya for over a thousand years.

The religion arrived on Kenya's doorstep in the 8th century with Arab traders. Having had time to flourish for several centuries, the arrival of the British colonists in 1895 put an end to the Omani dynasty present in the country. The colonists also used various ruses to get rid of the Arabic language and impose the Latin script. The aim? To keep the Muslims away. The British also banned the teaching of Islam in schools.

In 1963, Kenya freed itself from British rule after several decades under their yoke, and independence was finally declared. Today, around 10% of the Kenyan population is Muslim. Although few in number, they nevertheless have major associations and are very active throughout the country. It should also be noted that Nairobi, the capital, has almost half a million Muslim s (for a population estimated at nearly 4.5 million). There are no fewer than 30 mosques in the city. Although not the dominant religion, Islam nonetheless occupies an important place in this multicultural country. In addition, one religious building stands out in the city, and that's a mosque: the Jamia mosque, one of the most visited places in the capital.

The mosque has played a central role in the lives of the capital's Muslims since it was built in 1933. It became the centre of the country's religious organisation in the years leading up to its independence. From this point of view, it can be said that the mosque echoes the history of Kenyan Islam. Determined within a mosaic of multiplicity. In 1998, the mosque was enlarged and now houses a large modern library, as well as a television studio.

Shining silver domes and geometric minarets reaching for the sky - that's how you see the Jamia Mosque in bustling Nairobi. Here stands one of Kenya's most important buildings. It's a classical Islamic architectural style, to say the least, and it's used intensively. Note that the mosque is rarely accessible to non-Muslims, so you can still admire this beautiful architectural composition.

Take the time to stroll around the mosque, admiring the city centre. It's interesting to combine the mosque with a visit to the various points of interest in the city nearby. Masai Market, the 7 August Memorial Park, the Kenya National Archives and Documentation Service, the Kenyatta International Convention Centre and the Kenya Railway Museum are all in the vicinity of the Jamia Mosque. And if you're a keen shopper, the city market is right next door.

Founded with the support of Nairobi's African, Asian and Arab communities, the Jamia Mosque is a landmark of Islam in Nairobi and for the country's Muslim population. Many of the city's tour guides walk past the mosque with tourists. If you decide to visit Nairobi on your own, it would be a mistake not to pass in front of the mosque.

Located in Nairobi's business district, the mosque enjoys a prime location within the city. Between rue Banda and rue Kigali, taking a taxi to get there is the most practical solution. However, if you want to try out local public transport, there is a group of bus stops on Avenue Kenyatta in the immediate vicinity of the building. You'll need to take lines 24C, 46K or 46y, which stop a stone's throw from the main entrance. However, as the mosque is located in a very interesting part of the city with many points of interest nearby, why not stay directly in the business district?