In Mmala Village, under GVH Njovu, Traditional Authority Jenala in Phalombe District, lives a man whose life story powerfully demonstrates that true guidance is not dependent on physical ability, social acceptance, or comfort—but comes solely from Allah. His journey is one of patience, courage, and unbreakable faith.
Mr. Edwin Nambaiko is both blind and deaf, yet his heart sees clearly and hears the truth. For more than twelve years, Edwin served as a preacher in the Tree of Life Church. Despite his disabilities, he was known as a committed and disciplined individual who valued religious knowledge deeply. Through Braille, he learned how to read and study religious texts, allowing him to continue teaching and preaching even when many believed his limitations would hold him back.
About four months ago, during a da‘wah mission in Mmala Village, Allah opened a new door for Edwin—one that would change the course of his life. As the Outreach team conducted da‘wah sessions openly on the ground, Edwin happened to be passing nearby. Observing him, one of the outreach members felt a strong urge to approach him and gently asked whether he could manage to attend the class.
Alhamdulillah, Edwin accepted the invitation without hesitation.
From the very first day, it was clear that his attendance would require extra effort. Because Edwin is deaf, following spoken lessons was extremely challenging. The outreach team showed patience and compassion, taking time to explain each topic to him separately, repeating lessons with loud and clear voices, and ensuring he understood each concept. Despite the difficulty, Edwin remained attentive, focused, and deeply interested. His eagerness to learn was evident in the way he attended consistently and asked thoughtful questions.
After attending the sessions for about a week, the topic of Zakaat was introduced. It was explained that Zakaat is an obligatory charity upon those who have reached a certain level of wealth, and that it is given annually to purify wealth and support the needy.
At that point, Edwin asked a question that revealed both humility and sincerity:
“What about Sadaqah?”
The team explained that Sadaqah differs from Zakaat in that it is voluntary. It includes any act of charity done sincerely for the sake of Allah, regardless of size or value—whether material, physical, or even a kind word.
Then Edwin asked a question that moved everyone present:
“Even me—a blind man—can I give Sadaqah?”
He was reassured with kindness and certainty that yes, he could. He was told that even a small amount, such as K100, if given sincerely, holds great reward with Allah and may outweigh much more in the Hereafter. This moment deeply touched Edwin, as it showed him that Islam values intention and sincerity, not wealth or physical strength.
The very next day, after reflecting deeply on what he had learned, Edwin made a life-changing decision. With full conviction, he publicly announced his intention to embrace Islam. He then took the Shahadah, officially entering Islam and beginning a new chapter filled with purpose, clarity, and peace.
From that day until now, Edwin has remained firm, committed, and proud of his faith. His disabilities did not weaken his iman; instead, his faith grew stronger with every challenge he faced.
Trials After Accepting Islam
Edwin’s acceptance of Islam was not welcomed by everyone. Many members of his family and his former church community reacted harshly. He was humiliated, isolated, and pressured to abandon Islam and return to the Tree of Life Church. Insults were directed at him, and he was sidelined socially and emotionally.
Despite these painful experiences, Edwin stood firm. He refused to turn back and repeatedly declared that he would rather die than leave Islam. His words were not spoken out of anger, but out of deep conviction and certainty in the truth he had embraced.
Today, Edwin continues to face daily challenges—social, emotional, and financial. Yet through it all, his patience (sabr) and trust in Allah remain unshaken. His journey has become a source of inspiration not only to new Muslims but to anyone who learns about his unwavering faith.
We humbly encourage kind-hearted people and well-wishers to visit and support Brother Edwin Nambaiko at Maliro Trading Centre, Mmala Village, as he continues his life with limited resources but immense faith.
We pray that Allah grants him strong iman, abundant sabr, protection from hardship, and steadfastness upon Islam until his final breath. May Allah raise his rank, reward him for every struggle he endures, and make his story a means of guidance for others.
