As Israel continues to kill, maim and displace Palestinians, South Africa will join hundreds of thousands of people globally to mark Nakba Day next Friday with major protests demanding justice and a homeland for the Palestinian people.

In KwaZulu-Natal, a large group of activists are mobilising to travel to Richards Bay on Nakba Day (May 15) to protest outside the Richards Bay Coal Terminal “to draw attention to the ever-increasing amount of South African coal being shipped to Israel to help fuel the ongoing genocide against the Palestinian people.”

“Nakba” refers to the catastrophic ethnic cleansing of the Palestinian people from their land in 1948 to make way for the creation of the Israeli entity.

Global Sumud South Africa, together with the South African Boycott, Divestment & Sanctions Coalition and other major Palestinian Solidarity Organisations (PSOs), is part of a major campaign in Richards Bay. The Richards Bay action will be accompanied by a number of other actions, which will be launched throughout the country. 

Yesh Govender, who is part of the Global Sumud (SA) Steering Committee, told Al-Qalam that “Nakba Day is a day that is weighted with harsh memories, memories that have been carried through to this current day. “It is not a day that can be commemorated with mere platitudes or kind messages. It is a day that should be commemorated with some form of concrete action to further the Palestinian struggle for self-determination.

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“The campaign is directed to draw attention to the ever-increasing amount of South African coal being shipped through the Richards Bay Coal Terminal to Israel to help fuel the ongoing genocide against the Palestinian people. The campaign will include a town hall discussion on 15th May including members of the Energy Embargo Campaign, the Global Sumud SA’s Steering Committee, the Richards Bay community, trade union representatives, climate justice and Palestine solidarity activists. We hope to lay the foundation for a broad-based movement focused on preventing mining companies, such as Glencore and African Rainbow Minerals, from exporting South African coal to Israel. 

“We are undertaking this action in the knowledge that true pressure on the Israeli entity can only be exerted through sustained civilian protest actions, trade embargoes, sanctions and boycotts. Silence is complicity and every purchase of a boycott target simply serves to strengthen the Zionists. 

“The participants of the Global Sumud Flotilla, including the South African delegation currently waiting to set sail for Gaza, are aware of this campaign and the potential to disrupt more than 80% of Israel’s coal supply.

“The campaign is fully endorsed at an international level, and the Flotilla participants will be amplifying the message supporting an energy embargo against Israel. This takes the coal embargo campaign to an international level. 

He said the Richards Bay campaign will take place over 15/16th May.

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Govender added: “We are putting in place travel arrangements between Durban, Johannesburg and Richards Bay. The campaign will also secure accommodation for those who might need to stay in Richards Bay for the duration of the weekend. All those wishing to participate will need to complete a digital registration form, and people are urged to contact the SA BDS Coalition, Global Sumud SA, Palestine Solidarity Alliance and South Africa Palestine Movement to secure the registration form. Emailed confirmation of registration and further details will be sent to all those who submit the forms.”

Meanwhile, on Monday, the SA BDS met with Parks Tau, Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC), to raise its concerns about the export of SA coal that is “powering the Israeli Occupation Forces.”

Roshan Dadoo, representing the coalition, said afterwards that the meeting was “constructive,” noting, however, that while the Minister expressed support for South Africa’s case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), he was unable to take a position on a coal embargo, but emphasised his willingness “to continue open and ongoing engagement.”

The post Activists fired up for Nakba Day protests, ‘stop SA coal exports to Israel’ appeared first on Al-Qalam.

The final lunar month of Dhul Hijjah is expected to begin on Monday, 18 May 2026, with Hajj taking place from Monday, 25th May 2026. The 9th of Dhul Hijjah (Day of Arafah) is expected to be on Tuesday, 26 May 2026. As over two million pilgrims from across the globe gather in the sacred precincts of Makkah to fulfil the fifth and final pillar of Islam, Muslims throughout the world who are not performing the pilgrimage often ask: What is our role during these sacred days? How do we, as non-pilgrims, participate in the spiritual blessings and transformative ethos of the Hajj?

The first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are among the most sacred days in the Islamic calendar. Their sanctity derives from the fact that they host the rites of the Hajj itself. The Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) emphasized their spiritual significance when he proclaimed: “There are no days during which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days.” (Sahih Bukhari)

The first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are therefore not only for the hujjaj (pilgrims); they are sacred days for the entire Muslim ummah. While the pilgrims engage directly in the manasik al-hajj, the rites of pilgrimage, those of us at home are also invited to participate spiritually, ethically, and devotionally in the blessings of this sacred season.

There are at least three important ways in which non-pilgrims can participate in the Hajj experience indirectly and in solidarity with the pilgrims.

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The first is through fasting, especially on the Day of Arafah. The standing on the plains of Arafah (wuquf al-Arafah) represents the spiritual climax of the Hajj. It is the moment when pilgrims gather in humility, repentance, and prayer before Allah. Non-pilgrims are encouraged to fast on this day as a means of spiritual solidarity with those gathered at Arafah. The Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) taught: “Fasting on the Day of Arafah expiates the sins of the previous year and the coming year.” (Sahih Muslim)

Importantly, the Prophet (pbuh) himself did not fast while standing at Arafah during his farewell pilgrimage. This clarifies that the fast of Arafah is intended primarily for non-pilgrims. Through fasting, the hearts of believers across the globe become spiritually connected to the pilgrims gathered on the sacred plains of mercy and forgiveness.

The second way non-pilgrims participate in the Hajj is through the celebration of Eid al-Adha. Eid al-Adha is not merely a cultural festival or social holiday. It is deeply rooted in the culmination of the Hajj journey. The joy of Eid derives its meaning from the successful completion of the sacred rites by the pilgrims. The Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) famously declared: “The Hajj is Arafah.” (Musnad Ahmad).

In other words, the standing at Arafah is the essence and culmination of the pilgrimage. When Muslims around the world celebrate Eid al-Adha after the pilgrims depart from Arafah, they do so in spiritual unison with the hujjaj. The global Muslim community becomes symbolically united in devotion, gratitude, and remembrance of Allah.

The third and final way non-pilgrims participate in the Hajj is through the udhiyah or qurban, the ritual animal sacrifice performed during Eid al-Adha and the days of tashriq that follow. The Qur’an explicitly links the sacrifice to the rites of Hajj in Surah al-Hajj. The sacrifice commemorates the faith, submission, and moral courage of Prophet Ibrahim and his family. At its deepest level, however, the qurban is not simply about the slaughtering of an animal. The Qur’an reminds us that: “It is neither their meat nor their blood that reaches Allah, but rather your consciousness of Him.” (Qur’an 22:37)

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The sacrifice thus calls believers to embody generosity, compassion, and care for the vulnerable. In a world marked by widening inequality, war, hunger, and displacement, the spirit of qurban should move us beyond ritual symbolism toward social solidarity and ethical responsibility.

The Hajj season also reminds us of Islam’s profound vision of human equality and unity. Pilgrims stand side by side regardless of race, nationality, language, or class. The simple garments of ihram strip away worldly distinctions and remind humanity of our shared dignity before the Creator.

At a time when our world is witnessing devastating wars, rising xenophobia, deepening racism, and growing social fragmentation, the Hajj offers an urgently needed moral and spiritual message: that human beings are one family under God and that true piety lies not in wealth, power, or ethnicity, but in righteousness and moral consciousness.

For non-pilgrims, participating in the sacred days of Dhul Hijjah through fasting, Eid celebration, charity, remembrance of Allah, and qurban allows us to share spiritually in the blessings of the Hajj journey.  May Allah grant all pilgrims a Hajj Mabrur, a pilgrimage accepted with Divine grace, and may these sacred days renew within all of us a deeper commitment to faith, justice, compassion, and human solidarity.

The post Observing the most important days of Hajj appeared first on Al-Qalam.

The National Writers’ Association of South Africa (NWASA) has expressed its full support for the South African Nobel Laureate J.M. Coetzee’s decision to decline participation in the 14th International Writers Festival in Jerusalem.

NWASA’s secretary-general, Dr Lebogang Nawa released the strongly worded statement on World Press Freedom Day, saying Professor Coetzee’s refusal is a principled act of conscience. ‘It reflects a long-standing literary and ethical tradition in which writers do not separate their work from the realities of power, injustice, and human suffering,” he said.

In Coetzee’s communication with the festival organisers, he described the military actions in Gaza as a “campaign of genocide,” and raised profound concerns about the moral responsibilities not only of governments, but of intellectual and artistic communities.

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His decision reminds us, said Dr Nawa, that participation in global cultural platforms is never neutral, and that absence, when grounded in principle, can carry profound moral clarity.

NWASA affirmed that writers have a responsibility not only to language but to humanity. “When conditions arise that call into question the dignity and rights of others, the literary community cannot retreat into abstraction,” he said. “Silence, in such moments, risks becoming complicit.”

NWASA  considered Coetzee’s stance not to represent a rejection of dialogue but a challenge to the conditions under which dialogue is asked to take place

It urged the organisers of the 14th International Writers Festival to engage seriously with the concerns raised.

The NWASA statement calls for an end to violence, occupation, and the destruction of cultural institutions, while advocating for accountability, freedom of movement, and global solidarity. This is in alignment with South Africa’s foreign policy principles, which place human rights, international law, and multilateral accountability at their core.

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In this context, the organisation’s stance is not merely literary or symbolic, but part of a broader national and moral framework that rejects impunity and affirms solidarity with oppressed peoples through both diplomatic and cultural means.

“NWASA remains committed to a literary culture that does not turn away from difficult truths, but confronts them with honesty, courage, and responsibility,” Dr Nawa said.  

www.zubeidajaffer.co.za

The post SA back Coetzee’s boycott of Jerusalem Writers Festival appeared first on Al-Qalam.

A Palestinian mother of two who fled the Zionist genocide together with a plane load of other refugees late last year says she is most grateful to have been warmly welcomed to South Africa, but she yearns for the soil of Gaza.

Many of those who arrived have had to do so quietly, relying on community networks, particularly from within South Africa’s Muslim community.

Al-Qalam spoke to one Palestinian woman who requested to remain anonymous. Let’s call her Nadira.

Nadira says her life, despite hardships, was rooted in purpose and identity.

“I am Palestinian from the Gaza Strip. I grew up there and experienced everyday life filled with resilience and challenges. I studied journalism, got married, and have two children. I carry with me a deep connection to the place, my family, and the memories that have shaped a large part of my identity and who I am.”

Leaving, she explains, was not a decision made freely.

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“The circumstances that forced me to leave Palestine were difficult and complex. It was the war of genocide, the constant fear of death, and the absence of all basic conditions for life. It was a painful decision, but it came in search of safety and an opportunity for a new beginning where I could continue and build a future for myself and my children.”

For many Palestinians in Gaza, daily life has been shaped by ongoing conflict, uncertainty, and the erosion of basic living conditions. For civilians, particularly families, the decision to leave is often not about choice, but survival.

Arrival in South Africa brought both relief and emotional strain. “The moment I arrived in South Africa was a mix of conflicting emotions. I felt relief at being in a safe place, but at the same time, there was deep sadness and longing for everything I had left behind. My first impression was that the country is diverse, culturally rich, developed, and its people are kind, but I felt a sense of alienation at first.”

Adjusting to a new country, she says, has been neither quick nor easy. “Adjusting to life here has been gradual and not easy. The hardest part has been being away from my family and sometimes feeling lonely, as well as trying to integrate into a new society with different customs. Over time, I began to understand the environment better and gradually adapted.”

Separation from loved ones remains one of the most difficult aspects of rebuilding life in a new country.

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At the same time, support from local communities has played a meaningful role in easing that transition. “Yes, I have received beautiful support from the local community, especially the Muslim community, psychological, moral, and also guidance to better understand the nature of the country. This has helped me continue and feel that I am not alone.”

Across South Africa, similar acts of support have helped many who arrived begin to find stability, even in the absence of formal systems.

For Nadira, that sense of belonging is still taking shape.“I do feel that I am gradually developing a sense of belonging here. The country is kind and its people are welcoming, but it does not take away my original belonging to Palestine, my homeland. I hope people understand that behind every migrant there is a story full of challenges and sacrifices, and that the journey was not an easy choice but a necessity imposed by the harsh conditions in my country. South Africa has been a safe haven and a place of refuge for me, and I hold it in great appreciation 

The post Palestinian mum who fled genocide thankful to SA appeared first on Al-Qalam.

The Association of Muslim Schools (AMS) hosted a media launch at Al Baraka Bank, Kingsmead Office Park, on Tuesday, cementing a partnership and setting the stage for two much-anticipated KZN regional tournaments – soccer on May 9 and netball on May 16.

The tournament will take place across three local Muslim schools, with the finals taking place at Hartley Road Primary School.

AMS heads told media and principals of local schools that the partnership with Al Baraka Bank signals more than sponsorship; it reflects a shared commitment to youth development, community cohesion, and purposeful engagement beyond the classroom.

AMS represents a growing network of educational institutions, with 29 affiliated schools in KwaZulu-Natal and more than 80 nationwide. Within this network, sport has steadily become a unifying thread, offering learners structured opportunities to develop discipline, teamwork, and confidence. The upcoming tournaments are part of a broader effort to encourage young people to pursue active lifestyles, countering the increasing pull of screen-based habits that often dominate their free time.

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At its core, the initiative is about connection. The tournaments aim to foster a sense of brotherhood and sisterhood among learners, grounded in the spirit of healthy competition and social gathering. The events are not limited to the players on the field; they extend to families and communities who gather in support. Spectators can expect lively scenes, with learners competing with enthusiasm while parents and grandparents cheer from the sidelines. The presence of food stalls and shared spaces will add to the sense of occasion, turning each tournament into a community experience rather than a standalone sporting event.

Nasir Seedat, General Manager: Retail, Wealth and Marketing at Al Baraka Bank, highlighted the institution’s broader youth-focused vision. He noted that the ‘KickStart Your Future’ programme encourages young people to open savings accounts and commit to setting aside R500 per month, instilling financial discipline and a healthy work ethic. Adding an element of fun and engagement, the bank will host ‘Kick the Cone’ and ‘Shoot the Hoop’ competitions at the tournament finals, giving participants additional opportunities to showcase their skills and win prizes.

The netball tournament, scheduled for 16 May, is a female-only event, reflecting AMS’s commitment to creating inclusive spaces for young women in sport. It provides a platform for female athletes to compete, build confidence, and take ownership of their presence in a space that continues to grow in visibility and support.

The finals of the tournaments will receive live coverage from Hartley Road Primary School on Hilaal TV, as well as across social media platforms. This visibility celebrates the achievements of the learners and extends the reach of the initiative, allowing a wider audience to engage with the energy and purpose behind the events.

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Reflecting on the evolution of sport within AMS schools, Imtiaz Saib, Principal of Orient Islamic School, offered a perspective shaped by experience. He recalled a time when structured sports were largely absent within the AMS network. The introduction of regional and national tournaments, he noted, created a turning point, compelling schools to organise themselves and recognise the value of sport as part of holistic education. He acknowledged the contributions of individuals such as Riaz Jamal and earlier advocates whose efforts laid the groundwork for what has now become a thriving sporting culture.

Looking ahead, AMS plans to expand its sporting calendar to include volleyball, athletics, and cross-country events. This growth reflects a sustained commitment to diversifying opportunities for learners and strengthening the role of sport in education. Each additional code brings with it new avenues for participation, ensuring that more learners can find their place and express their abilities.

The post AMS and Al Baraka cement partnership to host tournaments appeared first on Al-Qalam.

This latest act of state-sponsored piracy, occurring hundreds of nautical miles from Israel’s maritime borders, represents a gross violation of international law, the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and basic principles of human rights.

By attacking unarmed civilian vessels carrying humanitarian aid for the besieged and war-ravaged people of Gaza, ‘Israel’ has demonstrated its utter contempt for legal norms and its continuing pattern of impunity. The use of drones, communications jamming, armed speedboats, and psychological warfare tactics against 58 civilian boats with over 400 activists from multiple nations is not a security measure; it is an act of military aggression.

The fact that Israeli forces seized seven vessels near Crete, far outside any legitimate zone of control, exposes the faux self-defence narrative as a hollow pretext for thwarting solidarity with a starving and genocided population.

MRN notes with alarm the chilling echo of the 2010 Mavi Marmara massacre, and we fear for the safety of those detained, particularly given documented past abuses against flotilla participants.
We demand the immediate release of all seized vessels and detained civilians, and we call upon all governments, especially those whose citizens are aboard, to uphold their legal duty to protect civilians on the high seas.

Silence in the face of this illegal, militarized hijacking is complicity.

The international community must act decisively to ensure unimpeded access of humanitarian aid to Gaza and to hold Israel accountable for this flagrant maritime crime.

Dr Ahmed Haroon Jazbhay,
Executive Member, Media Review Network,
Johannesburg

The post Israeli attack on humanitarian Flotilla to Gaza, ‘a state-sponsored piracy’ appeared first on Al-Qalam.

Ingredients

1 Tbsp crushed garlic
1 tsp dried red chilli flakes
2 Tbsp tomato sauce
2 Tbsp soy sauce
2 Tbsp sweet chilli sauce
2 tsp toasted sesame seeds
1 Tbsp honey
2 Tbsp oil
Chopped fresh coriander
Ready-made frozen crumbed chicken nuggets (±300g works well for this sauce)
Mini pitas
Shredded lettuce

Method

• In a bowl, combine garlic, chilli flakes, tomato sauce, soy sauce, sweet chilli sauce, sesame seeds, honey, and oil. Mix well.
• Cook the crumbed chicken nuggets according to package instructions until crispy and golden.
• Toss the cooked nuggets in the prepared sauce until well coated.
• Lightly warm the mini pitas.
• Fill each pita with shredded lettuce and saucy chicken nuggets.
• Garnish with chopped fresh coriander.
• Serve immediately and enjoy!

Serving Suggestion
Perfect as a quick snack, lunchbox filler, or a fun family meal. Add a
drizzle of mayo or a yoghurt-based sauce for extra creaminess.

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The post Asian Dunked Chicken Pitas appeared first on Al-Qalam.

“A humble soul” – that’s how most people described retired KZN Judge President Achmat Jappie, who passed away in the early hours of Wednesday.

Jappie (70) passed away of a suspected heart attack. He was buried in Sherwood, Durban, with many from the legal fraternity and the larger Muslim community attending his Janaza that took place after Zohr salah at the Soofie Bhaijaan Hall on 45^th Cutting.

Jappie, who was born in Port Elizabeth, leaves behind his wife, Judge Soraya Hassim, and three adult children.

Jappie was one of the first Muslims lawyers to be appointed to the bench in 1998. He later served as Deputy Judge President before being appointed as the Judge President of the KwaZulu-Natal Division of the High Court in June 2015.

Prior to that, he served as an acting judge of the Constitutional Court from February to March 2015.

President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed his condolences. He said: “During his 28 years as a judge, Justice Jappie entrenched the rule of law. He ensured that the law protected the interests and dignity of those who deserved relief, and that those who breached the law felt the consequences of their actions or attitudes. May Allah have mercy on him.”

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In a media statement, the Chief Justice of SA, Mandisa Maya, described Judge Jappie as a “distinguished jurist who served the people of South Africa with honour and integrity.” 

“Judge Jappie was widely admired for his calm temperament, fairness, humility, and commitment to justice. He earned the respect of colleagues, legal practitioners, and court users alike for his integrity and deep knowledge of the law.” 

“Following his retirement in 2021, Judge Jappie continued to serve the country, including as Chairperson of a Judicial Conduct Tribunal”.

Paying tribute, Shabir Chohan, the Chairman of the Association of Muslim Lawyers & Accountants (AMAL), said he and his colleagues were saddened at the passing of Judge Jappie, who served the legal fraternity with “absolute distinction”.

“Judge Jappie was a man of immense integrity and a proponent of human rights, being granted the honour of serving as Judge President of KwaZulu-Natal.

“We pray that Allah (S.W.T) grants Judge Jappie the highest ranks in Jannah, forgives his shortcomings, and envelops him in mercy. May his family and loved ones be granted the strength and patience to endure this immense loss,” he said.

Well-known Durban lawyer and human rights activist, Aslam Mayat, told Al-Qalam that Jappie was admired and loved by fellow judges and legal practitioners alike. 

“Like other previously disadvantaged lawyers during the apartheid era, after the advent of democracy, Achmat and other fine advocates from Group Seven, like Pius Langa (who became Chief Justice in the Constitutional Court), Ponen (who served on the Supreme Court of Appeal) and Sham Gyanda, were appointed as judges.

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“Achmat followed the constitutional dictates by bringing a humanist (or ubuntu) approach to the KZN bench, providing justice above legal technicalities.”

Senior Durban lawyer, Zain Fakroodeen, vice-chairman of AMAL, told Al-Qalam that Jappie was a humble soul who did not have any airs and graces about his status as a judge president of KwaZulu-Natal. He recalled how, once at a braai among friends, Jappie was present. He always displayed a casual and humble demeanour whenever he was introduced to other guests.

Fakroodeen said, despite being a judge president, he would quietly give free advice to poor people in the community. He remembered how on two separate occasions, two elderly women – visited his office. They told him they were sent by Judge President Jappie with a message that they should be assisted in their legal matters.

This reporter, Ismail Suder, who was assigned by The Daily News to cover criminal trials in the Durban High Court, was a regular in Jappie’s courtroom to report on proceedings.

“While passing his office one day, he spotted me and said: ‘Would you like some tea?’”

“Naturally, I was taken aback and nervously answered: ‘Yes, thank you, judge.” While sipping my tea, he made casual talk about my work as a reporter at The Daily News, about the mosque I usually attend for Jumu’ah prayers, etc. No doubt that brief interaction helped to break the ice, and after that, whenever I was in his courtroom, he would acknowledge my presence with a light nod.”

“He had an air of authority about him – he had a rugged, yet good-looking appearance – a mix between boxer Muhammed Ali and fighter Khabib Nurmagomedov – but I realised that behind the hard exterior, he was a humble and friendly soul.” 

The post Farewell Judge Achmat Jappie, ‘a humble soul’ appeared first on Al-Qalam.

A century-old disused church in Durban has been converted into a masjid, transforming the once neglected structure into an architectural marvel embodying a fusion of Moroccan, Persian and Arabian influences.

Masjid Bilal Ibn Rabah, as it is named and situated on 16 J.B. Marks Road in Berea (Formerly Chelmsford Road), stands out particularly at night when its tasteful lighting, both decorative and functional, is switched on, attracting much interest amongst locals and visitors.

A carefully reimagined space of worship and community, the new masjid is the brainchild of Moulana Mohammed Vanker, its donors and the trustees of the An-Nur Foundation.

The architectural firm behind the innovative project is The End Studios, whose director, Idris Hoosain, was responsible for the design, production, and installation, including overseeing the project from concept to completion. To ensure a unique design direction was established, he worked closely with the trustees –  and they were pleased with the end result.

Hoosain told Al-Qalam that this deliberate shift away from more familiar contemporary styles gives the masjid a distinctive identity, rooted in classical Islamic design traditions.

He said more than a simple conversion; the project represents a thoughtful balance between preservation and transformation.

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“The original architectural form has been retained, allowing the building’s heritage to remain visible, while a distinct Islamic identity has been layered into its structure — creating a space that feels both rooted and renewed.”

Driven by a long-term vision to elevate the role of the masjid, the An Nur Foundation has approached this project with a clear philosophy: a masjid should not only serve as a place of prayer, but as a centre of dignity, learning and belonging.

Stepping into the masjid, one is immediately struck by the richness of detail. The original timber roof structure remains intact, now complemented by intricate geometric ceiling patterns that introduce a distinctly Islamic visual language.

At the heart of the space, the mihrab forms a powerful focal point — framed by detailed woodwork, layered arches and a subtle halo of light. Surrounding this are elements that reflect craftsmanship and depth: laser-cut wooden screens, backlit panels, ornamental features and carefully composed architectural framing.

The polished parquet flooring further anchors the space, with handwoven Persian-style carpets arranged in traditional formation, reinforcing both familiarity and spiritual focus.

Lighting plays a defining role throughout. Warm ambient strips highlight architectural lines, while feature chandeliers introduce a sense of classical elegance. In contrast, softly illuminated alcoves and lounges add moments of intimacy and reflection, creating a balanced sensory experience.

Hoosain added: “Beyond the main prayer hall, the masjid introduces elements not commonly found in traditional layouts. Recessed majlis-style seating areas provide spaces for conversation and contemplation, inspired by Middle Eastern hospitality traditions. These are complemented by facilities designed for broader community use, including educational programmes, social engagement spaces, dedicated ladies’ facilities, a jamaat area and planned courtyard and garden developments.

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“The design intentionally extends beyond functionality, aiming to create an environment that welcomes all — particularly youth and families — into a space that feels accessible and lived-in, rather than purely institutional.

“Masjid Bilal Ibn Rabah is envisioned as a hub of continuous activity. Plans are already underway for maktab classes, hifz programmes and revert support initiatives, alongside regular visits from local and international scholars. Programmes for women and youth form a central part of this vision, supported by dedicated and comfortable spaces designed with inclusivity in mind.”

He added that weekly feeding schemes and community outreach initiatives further reinforce the masjid’s role beyond its walls, extending its impact into the surrounding neighbourhoods.

Hoosain pointed out the masjid is named after Hazrat Bilal ibn Rabah (RA), the first Mu’azzin of Islam, whose life represents unwavering faith, resilience, and the powerful message of equality in Islam – “reminding all who enter that true honour lies not in status, but in belief and steadfastness.”

The post Old church now a masjid masterpiece appeared first on Al-Qalam.

On 24 May 2026, more than 1000 South Africans will enter the vast tented camp of Mina at the start of their Hajj journey. I recall that moment nine years ago when I performed my Hajj.  It came as a bit of a surprise when I saw our white tents were a small little piece of a zone set up for Non-Arab Africans.

The exact number housed on any given Hajj year can vary slightly depending on overall Mina capacity limits, tent layouts, and Saudi space‑management rules, but the planned capacity for the Non-Arab African‑countries sector is generally on the order of 150,000–180,000 pilgrims.

Arab African countries like Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia and others are placed closer to Arabic-speaking countries. This year, our country’s allocated number is 1140. For years, we largely remained unaware that we are thrust together with our African Muslims in a sea of devotion. We balance only on our little wave, unaware of how far the other waves around us could take us on our journey of achieving the Islamic commitment to the unity of all of humanity.

As I recall, most of that day was spent in prayer and reflection. The only opportunity to meet women from other countries came when we visited the ablution facilities before sunrise and during the day. It struck me then that those moments were not conducive at all to striking up a good conversation or making an unexpected friend. Most of us make lasting friendships with other South Africans but seldom with pilgrims from other countries, which I have always understood to be part of the exercise.

It occurred to me then that it was a pity that there was not a structured opportunity to hear about Islam in another African country from their women, so that we could increase our understanding and knowledge. We should deepen our understanding of others who are our neighbours on this vast continent, destined to be propelled forward in the coming decades.  I understand this to be a Qur’anic obligation.

Then across my desk came the news that former Member of Parliament, Dr Ismail Vadi, has recently launched a research entity to increase our awareness and understanding of Islam in Africa. It gave me such a great pleasure not only to report this on my website (www.zubeidajaffer.co.za) but also to publish in full the inaugural 66-page booklet should you wish to read the initial findings.

He launched the new research institution, the Centre for Islamic Research – Africa (CIRA), in Johannesburg to deepen understanding of Islam across the continent among South Africa’s two million Muslims.

In the preface to its inaugural booklet, CIRA founder Vadi notes that South African Muslims – just 0.4% of Africa’s estimated 500 million Muslims – know little about their co-religionists in the continent’s 54 nations.

 “Continued ignorance of our diverse Islamic history, legacy, traditions, and traits is intolerable,” he said, urging a correction of this “intellectual and spiritual imbalance.”

South Africa’s Muslim community, tracing roots to Indian, Southeast Asian, and indigenous origins, has grown post-apartheid with arrivals from Somalia, Nigeria, Palestine, and beyond. Diverse across socio-economic lines, they form influential middle classes in Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Western Cape, he said.

The initiative arrives amid global and African conflicts, positioning South African Muslims to engage broader continental narratives. 

According to the booklet, approximately 45-50 percent of Africa’s total population identified itself as Muslim in 2025, with the total population of Africa estimated at approximately 1.56 billion people. This represents about 18.8 percent of the total world population, ranking Africa as the second-most populous continent, second to Asia.

CIRA will research political, economic, social, cultural, and religious trends through an Islamic lens, partnering with organizations continent-wide. The booklet, drawn from open sources, offers a “small step” toward awareness, acknowledging Africa’s predominantly Christian other half.

If I am allowed to dream, perhaps my granddaughter will one day arrive in Mina to perform her hajj and meet other African women forming friendships that will solidify continental unity.  Perhaps her generation will understand that we could form part of a sea of devotion in Africa if the waves of Islam and all other faiths seek cooperation. They will stand as a testament to a rejection of separateness that is so fashionable in the world today. 

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