Marhum Mohamed Bachoo Suleman
1940-2024
Inna Lillahi wa Inna Ilayhi Raji’un
“Surely we belong to Allah and to Him shall we return.”
Mohamed Bachoo Suleman, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on Thursday, January 18, 2024, in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. His journey, marked by kindness, wisdom, and devotion, left an indelible impact on his family and the wider community. His passing on the first Thursday of Rajab (Lailatul Raghaib) was a poignant moment, and his legacy continues to inspire those who knew him.
Born to Marhum Bachoo Suleman Shivji and Marhuma Sakina Bachoo Suleman, Mohamed was the husband of Mumtaz Suleman and a loving father to Annar Zahir Chatoo (Dar es Salaam), Hasina Khalil Champsi (Toronto), and Mohamedarif Mohamed Suleman (Dar es Salaam). He was a cherished father-in-law to Marhum Zahir Mohamedhassan Chatoo, Al-haj Khalil Mohammed Hassan Champsi and Gulbanu Barkatali Dinani, and a doting grandfather to many.
Mohamed’s story is deeply intertwined with the history of migration and resilience in East Africa. As featured in They Came to Africa by Lois Lobo, his family’s roots trace back to the 1880s, when his maternal great-grandfather, Ismail Bhalloo, journeyed from Jamnagar to Bagamoyo by dhow with his children. The family’s legacy of entrepreneurship, adaptation, and community service continued through generations, with members settling in Dar es Salaam, Burundi, Mombasa, and beyond.
His wife’s family also shares a remarkable history – her paternal great-grandfather, Nazarali Remtulla, made the arduous journey on foot from Bagamoyo to Tabora, eventually establishing a thriving business and contributing significantly to the region’s development. These stories of migration, perseverance, and service shaped Mohamed’s worldview and values, and he remained attached to his roots and kept records of his relatives, even to the extent of tracing blood relatives in Nagalpur, which is a small village in Kutch district in the state of Gujarat, India. He undertook a journey with his family in 1982 that took him to their native village, Bhuj, and Karachi, to name a few.
Marhum Mohamed was a self-made man whose journey began with a modest job at a bank in Tabora. His thirst for knowledge and determination led him to refine his sales prowess through his first role with Avon Rubber Company in Nairobi after relocating to Mwanza. A passionate sportsman, he excelled in tennis during his youth and later embraced volleyball and cricket, embodying a vibrant and active spirit. His philosophy of life centred on maintaining relationships, which he valued above all else. His eagerness to help others, even when resources were scarce, was a hallmark of his character, earning him admiration as a wise counsel for those in conflict and an advisor to those navigating life’s crossroads.
Mohamed was remembered as a pillar of the Dar es Salaam community, known for his fearless speech to those he felt were wavering in their commitments. His generosity touched several lives, as he lived by the belief that he was destined to give, even when he did not have. This indomitable spirit allowed him to create and recreate the map of his life in prosperity as well as adversity. He was a person who could not decline to assist.
Despite experiencing several ups and downs, Marhum’s resilience shone through as he mastered new trades to ensure his family’s well-being, always fueled by his relentless faith in Allah (SWT). As a leading businessman, he served as Secretary General of the Dar es Salaam Merchants’ Chamber, contributing significantly to the commercial landscape. His commitment to community service was profound; he was an ardent supporter of the late Sayyid Saeed Akhtar Rizvi and the Bilal Muslim Mission, offering his support in every possible way. Marhum was also among the founding members of the Golden Crescent Group (GCG), served as Honorary Secretary of the Mwanza Jamaat, and was a passionate participant in the Dar es Salaam Jamaat’s Annual General Meetings, leaving a lasting impact on the community.
From his days at Jaff´s Ltd on Morogoro Road, he touched countless lives with his generosity and wisdom. Friends recall his assistance in their personal and professional endeavours. He graciously set up a spot in his shop for elderly community members who would come and have the midday tea and Kebabs as they tried to kill time before Zohrain prayers, where he was a regular in those days. If you ever had a problem, and you spoke to him, he would solve it for you. Positioned as a leading wholesaler and industrialist in his trade, he was instrumental in setting up several community-owned businesses in the upcountry regions, where he would supply on credit and then extend generous terms of payment.
Despite health challenges in his final months, Mohamed faced adversity with patience and grace, supported by his devoted family. Their care and spiritual support reflected the love and respect he inspired. And his ability to remember his relatives was evident even when he awaited his final moments, calling every person he remembered and speaking to them on the phone.
As Imam Ja’far Sadiq (AS)´s teachings remind us, remembering death humbles us and strengthens our hearts. Marhum’s passing serves as a poignant reminder to live with compassion and faith, as he did. His legacy endures through the countless memories shared by family, friends, and community members. To this day, his family draws a lot of its energy from the lessons learnt from the life of Marhum.
Obituary by Mohamed Abdallah Khalfan (Dar es Salaam, Tanzania)
Marhum Mohamed Bachoo Suleman was a distinguished figure in the business community of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. His departure leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew him and in the institutions he tirelessly served.
He was a dedicated participant in the Africa Federation sessions held in Dar es Salaam, where his presence was always felt. His true impact shone brightly in the Committee Meetings of the Dar es Salaam Merchants Chamber (DMC), an institution vibrant with purpose during his tenure. He played a pivotal role in shaping its influential contributions to the Ministry of Trade, advocating for the private sector’s role in national decision-making.
Respected by his peers, Marhum was renowned for his insightful analyses of the business landscape in Dar es Salaam and Tanzania at large. His assessments of the challenges facing merchants were not only credible but also held in high esteem, guiding discussions with clarity and foresight. His self-confidence and candidness in addressing complex issues, particularly the burdensome annual renewal processes for business licenses, earned him admiration and trust.
Many believed that had he chosen to stand for the chairmanship of the DMC, the organisation might have been spared its untimely decline. His leadership, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to the betterment of the business community will forever remain a benchmark for others to aspire to.
Marhum Mohamed Bachoo Suleman leaves behind a legacy of integrity, dedication, and intellectual rigour. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, colleagues, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. May his soul rest in eternal peace, Aameen
Obituary by Raza Kara (Toronto, Canada)
We mourn the passing of Haji Mohammed bhai Suleman, a cherished soul whose life was a testament to compassion, generosity, and unwavering faith. Marhum was not only a respected figure in the community but also a beacon of kindness whose humanitarian efforts touched countless lives.
On a personal level, Marhum was my close confidante, and I do recall his many humanitarian activities he indulged in. He was always ready to lend a helping hand and offer support to those in need. His numerous charitable endeavours reflected his deep commitment to serving others, embodying the true spirit of selflessness. His presence brought warmth and comfort, leaving an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him.
We pray that Allah (SWT) grants Marhum Haji Mohammed bhai Suleman eternal peace and a place in Jannah-tul-Firdous. May Allah (SWT) also grant his family strength and patience during this time of grief. Al-Fatiha for Marhum and salaams to all his beloved family members.
May Allah SWT give his children the taufeeq and the hikma to carry on the noble journey to spread the word of Allah (SWT) and the Holy Prophet (SAW).
Obituary by Zia Chatoo-Parpia (Miami, USA)
In Loving Memory of Marhum Mohamed Bachoo Suleman
Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un
We deeply mourn the passing of Marhum Mohamed Bachoo Suleman, a true friend to our family whose kindness, loyalty, and gentle spirit touched our hearts in countless ways.
He stood by my father faithfully, in both joyful and difficult times, and offered unwavering support during a time of tragic accident and grief. His presence was a source of comfort and strength when we needed it most.
Beyond hardship, Marhum Mohamed brought warmth and joy to our lives, sharing in treasured family moments – from beach house retreats to Ramadhaan gatherings that will always be remembered with fondness.
We are forever grateful for his friendship, sincerity, and the love he extended to our family. May Allah (SWT) grant him the highest place in Jannah and give strength and peace to all who mourn his loss.
Obituary by Rasul Akberali Shamji (Dar es Salaam, Tanzania)
Salaamun Alykum Jameean,
I, humbly and respectfully echo the sentiments observed by my Respected Elders, Murabbi Mohammedbhai Khalfan and Murabbi Razabhai Kara. They have both aptly described the calibre of Marhum Alhaj Mohamedbhai Suleman.
Anything I write will be a little, too little to recognise the humble Soul’s profound contributions towards humanity in general and especially within our community.
His contributions extended in Mwanza Jamaat initially and then spread over to Dar es Salaam Jamaat and beyond. They were noticed by all those who knew Marhum and/or had interaction with him, be it within the business landscape or community Leadership.
He was an immaculate being with profound etiquette in all walks of life. His presence provided confidence to us youths who admired his stature and desired to be like him whenever we found our potential to be explored at that time.
I can never forget his support during my start-up of family life. In the mid-1970s, very few people had cars at their disposal. Since he was very easily approachable and never discriminated between rich and poor, I was very comfortable asking him to lend me his AUDI CAR to be used as my Wedding Car. Without hesitation or any conditions stipulated, he extended the Car keys into my hands to be used for as long as I needed to. He was the Man of the people.!!
May ALLAH SWT accept Marhum’s good deeds and reward his Soul in abundance in the hereafter with a lofty position under the shades of our Aimmas, at the same time forgive him for his shortcomings (if any). May the Entire family attain Sabr e Jameel.
Sura e Fateha is requested for all Marhumeens, including Marhum Mohamedbhai.
May Allah SWT repose the departed soul in the abundance of His mercy and rest him amongst the chosen ones – Aameen. We request our readers to remember marhum and all the Marhumeen with Sura-e-Fateha.
