The celebration, reflecting the universal importance, honour and admiration for Imam Ali (as), was blessed with the presence of Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to Zimbabwe, His Excellency Amir Hossein Hosseini, and distinguished diplomats and the Muslim community of Zimbabwe at large.  The event commenced with spiritual observances, including the prayer, beautiful Quran recitation, and the recitation of Dua Kumayl, a supplication traditionally associated with Imam Ali (as) setting a contemplative tone for the evening.

The Head of the Cultural Centre of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Zimbabwe, Mr Amini delivered an eye opening and inspiring speech remarking why Imam Ali has been admired and praised by the great poets in human history, especially grand personnel in the field of art and poems to mention Hafez, Sa’di and Molavi, non-Iranian thinkers such as Allama Muhammad Iqbal of Lahore  and George Jordac a Lebanese Christian writer who wrote a book entitled “Imam Ali: The Voice of Human Justice” while in their mastery they have helped humanity to better understand Imam Ali’s (as) character , life and teachings.

Mr Amini also noted that this Saturday (3 January, 2026), which coincides with the birth anniversary celebrations of Imam Ali (as), also marks the anniversary on the martyrdom of of the martyr General Qasem Soleimani, whose memory we honour. He was a devoted follower of the path of Imam Ali (as), one who did not struggle solely for the protection of Shia lives, but for all Muslims, for Christians, for Yazidis and ultimately for humanity as a whole. His efforts to confront and dismantle sedition were made possible through steadfast determination and faith in the truth of Imam Ali’s (as) path

Dr. Hamza Ali Tabar Azizi, visiting lecturer at the University of Zimbabwe profoundly, emphasized Imam Ali's legacy as a ruler who prioritized social equality and preserved his wisdom in works like Nahjul Balagha. The speaker eloquently underlined the necessity of instilling kindness in the family unit as the foundation of a moral society.

The discourse focused on an analysis of Letter 31 from Nahjul Balagha, sent by Imam Ali (as) to his son, Imam Hassan (as). The speaker explained how this document serves as a comprehensive guide to ethical living, addressing spiritual purity, societal duty, and personal discipline. The event finished with a commentary by Maulana Khalid Mwale, with guests acknowledging Imam Ali's teachings' ongoing importance in creating intercommunal harmony and directing personal conduct in the current world, as well as a closing supplication.