Milestone as Jamia TV is launched

After eight years of insightful broadcasting, a new era has begun as Horizon TV, a household name in the Islamic media scene in Kenya, has today rebranded to Jamia TV.

The name was unveiled during a colourful ceremony held at Jamia mosque, where hundreds turned up to witness the change of identity, which is expected to further reinforce Jamia’s position as a leading voice in faith-based media.

The rebranding came with a new logo, themed in green and gold, presenting a modern visual identity that reflects Jamia’s heritage as an Islamic and a community institution. The rebranding comes with a promise of presenting vibrant television programming that will further enhance the channel’s relevance in a fast-evolving digital landscape.

The relaunch of the station was made at the climax of the commemoration of a 100-year journey of Jamia mosque, which also featured the launch of a book documenting the historical journey from 1925 to the present time. The book, “Jamia Mosque Nairobi-a 100-Year Journey,” was authored by Ghalib Yusuf Tamimi.

From left, Ghalib Yusuf, the author, Abdullatif Essajee, Abdul Bary Hamid, Aden Duale and Muhammad Osman Warfa launching "The 100-year Journey of Jamia Mosque"

The book details the mosque’s history from its humble beginning as a corrugated iron sheet (mabati) structure in 1902 and the laying of its foundation in 1925 to its completion in 1933.

On hand to witness the momentous event was Health Cabinet Secretary Adan Duale, who was the chief guest at the event.

Speaking at the event, the Jamia Mosque chairman, Sheikh Muhammad Osman Warfa hailed the efforts of the Asian labourers who strove to construct the mosque through difficult times and immense sacrifices, saying that their determination has resulted in the mosque standing out a century later, as one of the most influential religious institutions in the country. “The stones that were used for construction came all the way from Bombay, India, and they were carried on shoulders from the railway way station to the site where Jamia stands,” he said.

With Jamia TV, he said, their legacy of da’wah will continue for generations, guiding more people to the noble values of Islam.

Explaining the reason for the branding, the Jamia TV chairman Abdullatif Essajee said it was important that name of the channel align with the identity of the mosque so as to better reflect the heritage of Jamia.

“We are branding to enhance our visibility engagement, and trust among our viewers, sponsors and partners. We believe that the name Jamia carries a lot of trust among people,” he said.

“The new name and brand identity — Jamia TV — reflect the station’s deep connection with Jamia Mosque’s legacy and mission. It symbolizes renewal, authenticity, and continuity. Jamia TV will continue to serve as a beacon of knowledge and faith, with programming guided by Islamic principles and modern production values,” he added.

New features of the channel will see the addition of the Somali language to serve Somali speakers both in the country and the diaspora. Abdullatif also spoke on future plans to start a radio station, turning the institution into a fully-fledged media house covering television, print and radio.

The mosque committee hailed Aden Duale for his efforts to support community projects, saying that he was instrumental in overcoming bottlenecks that were hindering the channel from making its maiden journey to the airwaves in 2017. “When we were having a challenge during the initial startup, it was through the intervention of Mheshimiwa Duale, then as the majority leader, that Horizon TV went on air,” he said.

In his remarks, the Cabinet secretary said the television station should be used to articulate the interests of Muslims and amplify their views and opinions on community and national matters. “Our Ulamas should use this platform to educate the community on important matters facing the community. Do not shy away from speaking for your religion,” he adviced.

More so, he said there is a need for Muslim media platforms to educate the younger generation on Islamic values, integrity, ethics, and parenting, “The biggest danger we are having as an ummah is our generation to come. We have an opportunity to use this media, Jamia TV to educate the people on Islamic values,” he said.

The CS commended the Jamia Mosque Committee for its important role in promoting Islam and advocating for the interests of the Muslim community in the country.

In his remarks, the station general manager, Ibrahim Mahmoud pledged that the channel will continue its mission of educating and informing with authentic content rooted in faith and values. “As we unveil our identity, we give our commitment to be the voice of truth, hope, and positivity, serving not just as a TV channel but as a bridge between communities and generations,” he said.

An initiative of the Jamia Mosque Committee, Horizon TV was launched in March 2017 and was envisioned as a Da‘wah tool to spread authentic Islamic knowledge, promote moral values, and provide educational and community-based programming.

Over the years, the channel has played a significant role in media-based Da‘wah for over eight years, broadcasting in Kiswahili, English, and Arabic, and serving audiences locally and regionally.

Apart from Kenya, where Jamia TV is accessed through the Free air platform and Pay TV providers-Startimes, Go TV, Zuku and Azam TV—viewers can also access the channel through the platforms in several countries, including Uganda, Tanzania, DR Congo, Rwanda, Burundi, Malawi, Zambia and the Comoros. Jamia TV programmings can also be accessed globally through the website and You Tube.