Call to host National Mosque Open Day to ‘build connections’ with community

By Al-Qalam Reporter

Once again, the South African Muslim Network (SAMNET) is urging mosques across the country to host National Mosque Open Day on September 24 (Heritage Day) as a means of promoting Dawah and to dispel negative myths about Islam.

By hosting a National Mosque Open Day, Masjids can promote a greater understanding of Islam, build connections with the local community and foster a spirit of inclusivity and respect.

The South African Muslim Network (SAMNET) initiated and has facilitated National Mosque Open Day (NMOD) in South Africa since 2017. It now includes various participating Mosques in Southern Africa.

National Mosque Open Day (NMOD) has been held on South Africa’s Heritage Day Public Holiday (24th September) to recognise the contributions of Muslims to South Africa’s heritage, development, culture, politics, and our national values and beliefs. NMOD has grown from a few participating Mosques in South Africa to over 60 across Southern Africa, including countries like Zimbabwe, Lesotho, Tanzania, Zambia, Swaziland and Malawi.

SAMNET said NMOD is an opportunity for participating mosques to showcase the beauty of Islam to “members of our community who belong to other cultural and faith groups.

A SAMNET spokesman added: “The primary objective of NMOD is to present a positive image of Islam, Muslims, and our common humanity, and to establish Muslims as equal citizens and contributors to the community. This is crucial to counter prejudice, racism, hate and Islamophobia.”

Some of the benefits of hosting National Open Day are the following:

1. Promotes interfaith understanding: Fosters dialogue and builds bridges between Muslims and non-Muslims.
2. Breaks stereotypes: Challenges misconceptions and myths about Islam and Muslims.
3. Encourages community engagement: Strengthens relationships between the mosque and local community.
4. Educational opportunities: Provides a chance for people to learn about Islam and its practices.
5. Cultural exchange: Showcases Islamic art, architecture, and culture.
6. Fosters mutual respect: Encourages understanding and respect among different faiths.
7. Addresses misconceptions: Clarifies Islamic teachings and practices.
8. Builds trust: Helps to establish trust between Muslims and non-Muslims.
9. Promotes social cohesion: Encourages unity and inclusivity.
10. Supports community integration: Helps Muslims to integrate into the wider community.

Contact SAMNET to volunteer, support, contribute or donate to this and other SAMNET projects on info@samnet.co.za or visit their website www.samnet.co.za