By: Abdul Razack Gbla
The prestigious National Female Qur’an Recitation Competition, organized by the Ibn Alie Network, is set to return for its fifth edition on Sunday, 7th September 2025, at the Bintumani Conference Hall. With preparations already in full swing, anticipation is mounting for what has become one of Sierra Leone’s most celebrated religious and educational events dedicated exclusively to female Qur’an reciters.
Widely regarded as a symbol of female excellence in Islamic scholarship, the competition draws participants from across the country’s provinces. Following a series of rigorous auditions, only five outstanding young women have earned their place in the grand finale, where they will demonstrate their mastery of Qur’anic memorisation and recitation before a distinguished audience.
The event is scheduled to begin at 8:00 a.m. and is expected to draw high-profile attendees, including Her Excellency First Lady Fatima Bio, Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, Freetown Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr, cabinet ministers, esteemed Islamic scholars, and members of the public. Dignitaries from across the sub-region and beyond have also expressed interest in attending, reflecting the event’s growing international recognition.
The Ibn Alie Network, renowned for its dedication to Islamic education and youth empowerment, describes the competition as more than a display of talent it is a spiritual journey that underscores the devotion, discipline, and intellectual strength of Muslim women in Sierra Leone.
As the competition date approaches, organizers are calling on the public to support the event and keep the finalists in their prayers. “We ask Allah to grant all our daughters success, confidence, and barakah,” said a spokesperson for the network. “May their efforts be accepted as sincere acts of worship.”
The National Female Qur’an Competition continues to serve as a pillar of inspiration, uplifting the next generation of Muslim women and reaffirming the essential role of Sierra Leonean girls in preserving and transmitting the Holy Qur’an.