September 24, 2026
Two years after his passing, the global pulse community reflects on his integrity, humility, professionalism and lasting bonds. Memories of a respected businessman, mentor and friend whose presence was felt at GPC forums and far beyond.
“My father, the late Mr. Saifuddin Abidali, (1959-2024) dedicated his life to the global pulse industry with honesty, perseverance, humility, and vision. He believed that business was never simply about buying and selling commodities—it was about earning trust, honoring commitments, and building relationships that would endure for generations.
He founded Mufaddal Enterprises, now Saif Commodities Pte Ltd in Cairo, Egypt, in 1975. Yet our family’s journey in the food trade stretches back more than eight generations. Our roots trace to the former Princely State of Bhavnagar in India’s Kathiawar region, where the Jafferjee family operated sailing vessels trading across Bhavnagar, Mumbai, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives. They carried medicinal herbs, pulses, rice, sugar, flour, and other essential commodities, laying the foundations of a family tradition built on integrity, quality, and service. This heritage brought my great-grandfather Mr Abdul Hussain Jafferjee, to Sri Lanka as early as 1895, and from then onward each generation carried forward the same passion for wholesome food ingredients and ethical commerce.
My father transformed this proud heritage into a modern international enterprise while remaining firmly grounded in the values passed down through generations. His greatest contribution was not merely building a respected business, but building confidence among suppliers, customers, financial institutions, colleagues, and the thousands of people whose lives he touched. He taught us that reputation is earned over decades through honesty, consistency, and keeping one’s word, especially during difficult times.
Many members of the global pulse community will remember him from the Global Pulse Confederation forums, where he was a familiar and respected presence. He attended year after year, always smiling, approachable, courteous, and generous with his time. He believed that every conversation was an opportunity to learn, every handshake the beginning of a friendship, and every relationship something to be nurtured with sincerity. To many aspiring businessmen, he was a quiet but powerful role model whose character spoke louder than words.
Those who worked alongside him remember not only an accomplished businessman but also a mentor who led by example. He instilled discipline, fairness, humility, and an unwavering work ethic in everyone around him. He encouraged long-term thinking, valued loyalty above convenience, and believed that success should always be shared with employees, customers, suppliers, and the wider community.
Today, Saif Commodities Pte Ltd continues to build upon that legacy, connecting businesses across more than 55 countries through the responsible trade and processing of wheat, corn, barley, rice, sugar, pulses, tea, coffee, dried fruits, spices, herbs, and other food commodities. Every partnership we build and every commitment we honor reflects the principles he lived by throughout his life.
He will be remembered as a pioneer of our industry, a loyal friend, a generous mentor, and above all, a devoted father whose greatest legacy was not the business he built, but the values he passed on. His influence lives on through the people he inspired, the relationships he cultivated, and the enduring principles of integrity, humility, service, and trust that continue to guide our family and our business every day.”
“He came to Egypt as an immigrant and set up an amazing business marked by innovation, integrity, and professionalism. He used to come to all GPC forums – always smiling and courteous and a wonderful role model to aspiring businessmen.”
“I was fortunate to meet him and trade with him. He had a remarkable way of making people feel welcome, whose character left a lasting impression on everyone he met.
What I will remember the most is not only a single event but also countless small moments.
He was an early rising man like me. During my trip to Egypt, he was always my first appointment in the morning and to have the best morning tea with laughter and smiles.
I say he was the last man of the generation. His absence has left a space that cannot be filled. This industry will not see one more Saif. As he deserves, may God have him in heaven.”
Disclaimer: The opinions or views expressed in this publication are those of the authors or quoted persons. They do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of the Global Pulse Confederation or its members.
