By SHABAN MAKOKHA
March 17, 2026| In an age where digital connections often feel superficial, a simple WhatsApp message has proven that technology can still unite hearts across vast distances—bringing warmth, dignity, and hope to a community that had long prayed on cold floors.
The powerful act of digital charity saw well-wishers mobilise through a WhatsApp group to donate prayer carpets to worshippers at Mwikunda Mosque in Mumias, transforming a place of worship and restoring the dignity of dozens of faithful who had quietly struggled with limited resources.
What began as a modest online appeal on the Swadaqatul Jaariya WhatsApp Group has now blossomed into a heartfelt community movement, touching the lives of Muslims in this quiet corner of Kakamega County. According to the organisers, the appeal was first shared in a small chat group of fewer than ten members. Within just 72 hours, the message had reached multiple members, attracting contributors not only from within Mwikunda village but also from Mjini and Lumino estates, and as far as Nairobi, Mombasa, and the diaspora.
The drive raised enough funds to purchase three rolls of new prayer carpets—a significant boost for a mosque where many congregants, especially elderly men and young madrasa learners, often prayed on thin, worn-out mats or bare cement floors.
“We were shocked by the response,” said Hadija Were, one of the coordinators of the initiative. “People sent whatever they could—Sh20, Sh100, Sh1,000. What mattered most was the heart behind it.”
Leaders at the mosque expressed deep gratitude, noting that the donation comes at a time when the community faces economic hardship. Many families in Mwikunda survive on irregular income from small-scale farming and casual labour, making even basic religious items difficult to afford.
“Some of our elderly worshippers have knee and back problems, yet they knelt on cold floors or pinching worn-out mats,” explained Abduswamad Manda, the mosque committee chairman. “These carpets will not only enhance worship but also protect their health. We are truly grateful to God and those who came up with this noble initiative.”
Mr Manda revealed that the mosque is now grappling with an urgent challenge: transitioning from the aging, crowded madrasa structure to a modern facility that meets the needs of the growing number of children attending religious lessons.
“For years, our children have squeezed into the mud-walled structure, many forced to skip lessons when weather conditions turn harsh. We are grateful that the number of children keeps growing, but it has overwhelmed the existing structure,” he said.
He explained that for years, the mosque has served as both a spiritual home and a madrasa, nurturing young learners in Qur’an recitation, Arabic literacy, Islamic morals, and community values. “We feel that both the shanty madrasa structure and the mosque are getting overwhelmed by the growing number of children. They are no longer adequate for their safety and growth,” he added.
Photo: Shaban Makokha
During the handover ceremony on Monday, emotions ran high as residents expressed their appreciation. Ramadhan Tunguta, the Imam of the mosque, said his followers had prayed on worn-out mats for far too long.
“Today we feel valued. They may feel that this is something small, but it carries a deep meaning. It restores dignity,” he said. “May God bless everyone who remembered us.”
Beyond meeting a religious need, the carpets also offer practical comfort—especially for older residents suffering from joint pain and the cold floors during early morning prayers.
The organisers say the success of the initiative demonstrates the power of digital unity and community compassion. They plan to use the same WhatsApp platform to mobilise future support for Qur’ans, madrasa supplies, and assistance for needy families.
“This donation shows that technology can unite hearts,” said Fauzia Atira. “What started as a simple message has transformed the lives of Muslims in Mwikunda. People donated saying they wanted to be part of something good. It reminded us that generosity is still alive.”
Encouraged by the overwhelming support, the group plans to launch similar drives to provide Qur’ans, warm clothing, and food packages.
“This was not just a donation,” reflected Mwanaisha Masanga. “It was a reminder that even small acts of kindness can change lives. We are building a community of care—one prayer carpet at a time.”
Ms Mwanaisha noted that despite the mosque acquiring the new carpets, at the heart of the struggle remain the children—hundreds of them—who seek Islamic education. She highlighted the importance of education, especially Islamic religious education that teaches children about their faith, ethics, and the principles of culture.
“Our children are the future guardians of our faith. It is crucial that we provide them with the knowledge and moral foundation they need to navigate in their lives,” she said.
She shared stories of children who attended madrasa and had transformed into remarkable individuals, instilling pride in their families and the community—proof that when a community comes together, even the smallest gesture can plant seeds of lasting change.