abubakar bin zubeir

Abubakar bin Zubeir (full name commonly Sheikh Dr. Abubakar Zubeir bin Ally or variations like Abubakar Zubeir bin Ali, Abubakar Zuberi bin Ally, or Abubakr Zubeir Mbwana) is the current Grand Mufti (Mufti Mkuu) of Tanzania and the head of the National Muslim Council of Tanzania (BAKWATA), the official body representing and regulating Muslim affairs in the country.

Born in 1953 in the Tanga Region, he has a long background in Islamic scholarship, leadership within BAKWATA (including roles on the Ulamaa Council for over two decades), and religious administration.

He was elected unopposed as Mufti in around 2015 (succeeding Sheikh Simba Shaaban Simba after his death), initially serving in an acting capacity before formal confirmation.

He holds a doctoral-level qualification (often addressed as "Dr." or "Dkt.") in Islamic studies or related fields.Key Role and ActivitiesAs Grand Mufti, he leads BAKWATA, issues fatwas (religious rulings), guides imams and sheikhs, and promotes unity, peace, and education among Tanzania's Muslim community (which makes up about 35–40% of the population, concentrated in coastal, Zanzibar, and some mainland areas).

He frequently addresses national issues through statements, Eid messages, and media appearances:Urging Muslims and Tanzanians to foster unity, reject hate speech/chuki, and pray for national peace (e.g., ahead of the 2025 general elections, emphasizing calm conduct and solidarity)

Calling for dialogue via interfaith platforms like the Tanzania Interfaith Partnership (TIP) to restore the nation's image, preserve harmony, and protect lives/property.

Praising international efforts to serve Islam (e.g., commending Saudi Arabia's contributions in 2025).

Promoting education's importance in Islam and advising on religious matters like zakat, moon sighting (e.g., coordinating with Zanzibar and Kenya Muftis), and community guidance.

He officiates or participates in state functions, interfaith events, and international engagements (e.g., as a speaker at Global Peace Foundation events, guest at Iftar dinners in Kenya, or collaborations with institutions like the International Open University, where he has been appointed to head programs in Tanzania).