As we observe Black History Month and prepare for the blessed month of Ramadan, it is befitting that we reflect on the extraordinary legacy of African Muslims — a legacy of scholarship, sovereignty, courage and unwavering faith.

Islam’s history in Africa is not peripheral to the story of the Ummah; it is foundational. Across West, North and East Africa, Muslim empires flourished under the leadership of warrior kings, queens, princes and princesses who governed with strength and spiritual conviction.

These were not symbolic figures — they were strategists, reformers and guardians of both land and faith.

Among them stands Mansa Musa of Mali, often described as one of the wealthiest individuals in recorded history. His 14th-century pilgrimage to Mecca became legendary. Travelling with an immense caravan, he distributed so much gold along his journey, particularly in Cairo — that he temporarily affected local economies.

It is said that he left gold wherever he travelled, increasing the wealth and visibility of his empire and permanently placing Mali on the global map. Yet his riches were not merely for display; he invested in mosques, universities and libraries, strengthening Islamic scholarship for generations.

The Songhai Empire under Askia Muhammad expanded Islamic governance and learning. The Kanem-Bornu Empire and the Hausa city-states built courts rooted in Islamic principles. Royal women also held influence — advising rulers, overseeing trade networks and preserving scholarship. Their faith was not separate from their leadership; it shaped it.

Cities such as Timbuktu, Gao and Kano became intellectual capitals. The University of Sankoré in Timbuktu attracted scholars from across the Muslim world. Islam places great emphasis on acquiring beneficial knowledge as the Hadith advises, “Seeking knowledge is an obligation upon every Muslim” (Sunan Ibn Majah 224).

Manuscripts on astronomy, medicine, mathematics and theology still testify that Africa was not simply receiving knowledge — it was producing it.

Even during the Transatlantic Slave Trade, Islam endured. Many enslaved Africans were Muslim. Though stripped of freedom, they carried the Koran in their hearts, recited from memory and maintained prayer under brutal conditions. Their resilience stands as a profound chapter of both Black history and Islamic history.

In this Black History Month, acknowledging these contributions is not about nostalgia — it is about restoration. It is about remembering that African Muslims have always been builders of civilisation, protectors of faith and carriers of knowledge.

And as Ramadan approaches, this remembrance should stir something within us.

Ramadan is not merely abstention from food and drink. It is spiritual recalibration. It is dignity. It is returning to the Koran, to prayer, to discipline and to mercy. It is standing shoulder to shoulder — regardless of race or lineage — knowing that the most honoured in the sight of Allah are the most righteous.

In the lead-up to Ramadan which is expected to begin on the evening of Tuesday, February 17 or Wednesday, February 18 — depending on the sighting of the Moon, let us prepare intentionally for the blessed month of Ramadan.

It would behove us to increase our voluntary prayers and reconnect with the Koran, even if only a few verses daily. We should mend strained relationships. Give charity quietly. Reduce distractions. Make sincere intentions that this Ramadan will elevate us, not simply pass us by.

Ramadan is an honoured guest; and preparation reflects gratitude.

We pray: “O Allah, bless us in Sha’ban and allow us to reach Ramadan. O Allah, grant us life to witness Ramadan, health to fast it, strength to stand in prayer during it, and sincerity in all that we do. Make it a month of forgiveness, elevation and nearness to You. Ameen.”

In shaa Allah (God willing), next week I will highlight and expound on notable Black Bermudians who deserve recognition and remembrance.

May we honour Black History Month by remembering the legacy behind us — and honour Ramadan by strengthening the legacy ahead of us.

Bermuda, may we continue to pray for those at home and abroad who are less fortunate than us; those experiencing dire situations — pray their situations will improve and their burdens lifted immediately.

Today many are celebrating and expressing their love with fancy cards, flowers, chocolates, etc, because they are reminded by commercialism to do so; let us remember that love is an everyday, lifelong practice, not an outside show, with trinkets and rote words, but let us love one another with sincerity and kindness in a pure, simple but authentic way. Not a love only from the lips but a genuine, caring love from the heart.

The Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) taught us: “Verily, Allah does not look at your bodies or your faces, but He looks at your hearts.” (Sahih Muslim)

O Allah, purify our hearts, guide our intentions, and fill our homes with mercy and light. Make us people of compassion, gentleness, and unity. Ameen.

Bermuda, be blessed.

Ramadan Mubarak!

As salaam alaikum (peace be unto you).

• Linda Walia Ming is a member of the Bermuda Hijab Dawah Team, a group of Muslim women who reside in Bermuda and have a goal of educating the community about the religion of Islam