Al-Qalam 
The South African Muslim Network (SAMNET) has been highlighting a noticeable rise in anti-Muslim misinformation, stereotypes and hostility, particularly on social media. Muslims are increasingly being portrayed as outsiders, despite being part of South Africa’s history and heritage for more than 300 years.)
One of the most effective ways to challenge prejudice is through meaningful human interaction. Research from around the world consistently shows that when people meet, engage and learn from one another, fear and misconceptions begin to disappear.
National Mosque Open Day (NMOD) was launched by SAMNET in 2017 and is held annually on Heritage Day, 24 September.
The initiative encourages mosques across South Africa to open their doors to the public and welcome visitors from all backgrounds. Since its inception, the campaign has grown significantly, with dozens of mosques participating across the country and across Africa.
The concept is simple: invite your community to visit your local mosque, learn about Islam, observe the mosque environment, ask questions freely, and engage with Muslims in a welcoming and relaxed setting. A typical Open Day may include a guided mosque tour, an explanation of prayer and wudu, refreshments, and possibly a Q&A session.
National Mosque Open Day is not about debate or conversion. It is about building understanding, strengthening relationships and creating opportunities for people to learn directly from one another rather than through stereotypes or misinformation.
Heritage Day provides the perfect opportunity to showcase the diversity of our nation and to demonstrate that mosques are not only places of worship, but also centres of community, service, compassion and learning. It is a Public Holiday when most people are available to attend and volunteer.
At a time when Islamophobia is growing globally, opening our doors is a practical and positive response. Every conversation helps replace suspicion with understanding, strangers with neighbours, and misconceptions with meaningful human connection.
We invite all mosques and musallahs to participate in this year’s National Mosque Open Day on 24 September 2026.
For more information or to register your mosque, please contact SAMNET at info@samnet.co.za or WhatsApp 0843333979 or visit www.samnet.co.za
