Ten-year-old Abdikhalid Gedi Sheikh of Markaz Al-Bayan Madrassa was the surprise overall winner of the 16th annual Garissa county Qur’an competition.
The soft-spoken pupil outshone hundreds of contestants from across the county to clinch the top prize — a brand-new Toyota Succeed — awarded by Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, who was the chief guest at the ceremony.
A jubilant crowd erupted in cheers as Abdikhalid stepped forward to receive the car keys, which were handed to his mother, Hawa Aden, on his behalf.
“I am grateful to everyone, but most importantly to Allah,” the shy and visibly overwhelmed winner said in a brief acceptance speech.
His mother described the victory as a proud moment for the family.
“It is a big day for us. My son has always been disciplined, hardworking and focused. Today we are seeing the results,” she said.
Mahir Mohamed Yussuf, the first runner-up, was awarded a fully sponsored Hajj pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia, while Rayan Ibrahim Yarow earned an Umrah pilgrimage.
Speaking during the colourful ceremony, Duale called on parents and guardians to play an active role in nurturing their children, stressing that faith-based teachings are critical in instilling strong moral values.
“Religious institutions have remained steadfast in shaping the moral fabric of our society. They are key partners in nurturing disciplined and responsible citizens,” he said.
He commended religious leaders for their dedication to mentoring the youth and pledged continued support for institutions offering spiritual guidance.
The ceremony drew religious and political leaders, parents and students from across Garissa county.
For 16 years, the annual initiative has promoted Islamic scholarship and spiritual growth among young people, providing a respected platform for excellence in Qur’an recitation. Judges included Sheikh Luqman Abdirahman Hussien (Kenya), Dr Ismail Abdirahman Mohamed (Sudan) and Dr Riyadh Abdullahi Al Absi (Yemen).
