A Legacy of Faith: Islamic heritage museum reopens after refurbishment
ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia (MNTV)- Ethiopia has opened a museum, named Bilalul Habeshi Museum, unveiling a broader array of cultural and historical artifacts.
Named after Bilal ibn Rabah—the first African to embrace Islam and be one of the most prominent Companions of the Prophet Muhammad Peace Be Upon Him—the museum continues to highlight Ethiopia’s deep-rooted Islamic heritage.
“The refurbishment aimed to enhance the experience for visitors and enrich the museum’s collection,” said Adem Mohammed, the museum’s chief administrator, to The Reporter, Ethiopia. “We’ve also added new manuscripts and historical artifacts to provide a deeper insight into Ethiopia’s Islamic heritage.”
The renovation introduced additional displays, including a collection of handmade traditional clothing, showcasing garments worn by Ethiopian Muslims in both everyday life and festive ceremonies.
One of its most prized exhibits is a rare letter attributed to Prophet Muhammad PBUH, addressed to King Nejashi (Negus), the ruler of Abyssinia (ancient Ethiopia). The museum also boasts historical records documenting the spread of Islam in Ethiopia.
The museum’s four exhibition halls provide an immersive experience, with newly installed displays enriching its visual appeal. At the entrance, two mannequins dressed in garments worn by pilgrims on Hajj and Umrah stand as a tribute to the spiritual devotion of Ethiopian Muslims.
Inside, visitors encounter an array of Shemma garments, traditionally worn by Ethiopian Muslim men and women, displayed side by side. The collection also includes robes and gowns once worn by prominent Imams, including the distinguished scholar Hajji Omar Idris Mufti.
Alongside these, various artifacts illustrate the country’s rich Islamic traditions, offering a glimpse into a centuries-old heritage that remains woven into the nation’s fabric.
The Museum’s latest exhibit highlights the rich diversity of Islamic attire across Ethiopia. The display spans regions from Benishangul-Gumuz to northern Tigray, from Wollo’s signature Shemma garments to the distinct dress styles of the Harari people in the east.
It also includes the vibrant, woven Shemma worn by women in Gondar and the traditional attire of Somali men. The exhibit further illustrates the many ways Muslim men and women fold their garments into head coverings, a practice deeply embedded in regional customs.
Founded in 2018 by the Bilal Association, the Bilalul Habeshi Museum is named after Bilal ibn Rabah al-Habashi, an Ethiopian who became Islam’s first muezzin (caller to prayer). Beyond its role in preserving history, the museum actively engages in community initiatives that reflect the values of compassion and solidarity.
One of its most impactful programs supports orphaned and underprivileged children. As part of these efforts, the Association operates schools that provide education at minimal fees, offering scholarships to students in need. Today, more than 1,800 students receive support, with guidance extending from primary education to higher learning.
Over the years, the museum has evolved into a cultural and intellectual hub, attracting dignitaries, foreign diplomats, scholars, students, and researchers.
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