Aishah Cassiem: August 2012

Monday, 27 August 2012

Islamic organic farm initiated

Vegetables grown organically.File

A group of Muslim residents in the Schaapkraal area are calling on Muslim businessmen in Cape Town to come forward and help them to create an Islamic organic farm. Speaking to VOC’s Afternoon Cruise, Anwar Abrahams, one of the founders of this initiative said that with the project being in its early stages, he is hoping to get as much response from the Muslim community.
“The aim of this project is to have an Islamic organic farm where Muslim business can learn from each other. We want them to learn the better way of doing business and get away from the corporate system so that you don’t have to go to expensive supermarkets to buy foods,” said Abrahams, adding that residents would be trained to learn the Islamic way of farming and businesses. They hope to offer them a space where they can create their very own businesses and create a Muslim network where we they can sell their things to each other.
Abrahams pointed out that with the initiative being in its beginning stages, they are still in need of volunteers. “Volunteers are needed to help us get this farm in shape and we need your help to put fencing around the property. However the farm is quite big and has space for many animals as well. We have a little section for Islamic teaching where the children will be taught and of course the facilities for the flea market as well,” he explained.
Businessmen will be able to plant fruits and vegetables on the farm as well as create a provision of shelter for their animals. “The farm is big, so bring your animals, for you can visit them every day and feed them while you watch them grow. The same with your fruits and vegetables...you will be allowed to come in any time and every week you will be able to sell your products on our little flea market,” Abrahams said.
He urged the public to come forward if they are able to contribute in any way and said that the communities ideas to improving the farm are welcomed. If you would like to know more about the Islamic organic farm or how you can contribute, you can contact Anwar Abrahams on 074 628 9173. VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

‘The Eid after party’

The month of Ramadan has gone by rapidly this year leaving many Muslims spiritually rejuvenated and inspired by their deen. However, as soon as Eidul Fitr dawns, many forget the good deeds that were done during the holy month, drawing them back to their old habits and un-Islamic practices. Speaking to VOC’s Youth Hour, various young students within Cape Town spoke out about how Eid night has turned out to be, what they call – the ‘Eid after-party’.

“Eid night is not what it use to be like back in the days. Many youngsters are hanging out at malls, beaches and of course one of the main attractions for Eid- the V&A Waterfront. What do they do at the Waterfront? That’s what everyone wants to know,” said 19 year old Aneeqah Moerat from Grassy Park.

“I’ve seen many young Muslim girls who have been dressing up beautifully in hijab during Ramadan, but on the night of Eid – Ya Allah, short dresses, no hijab and hanging on guys in the open." Gathering at these social hotpots on Eid night has all of a sudden become a norm for teenagers. Its where the 'whose who' of the popular Cape Town teen social circles meet.

"It’s a disgrace and many of the innocent Muslim youth are being influenced by youngsters who are not Allah conscious," said Moerat. “A mall is a place you go to every day and we should leave it for another day. Eid is a special day and Muslim youth should spend it in a special way. You don’t need other people’s opinion on how you look..it’s not worth it.”

24 year old Yaseen Khereker said that Eid day should be considered as a holy day for Muslim youth and should be spent in the company of family. “My Eid day starts with the usual Eid salaah leading into the family lunch. When that’s done we go and greet family and friends. The night we will have supper and then the day is over," he said.

"I still don’t see the need to go and party at night with friends at malls and beaches. It is so un-Islamic, especially on a day that we suppose to celebrate with family.” He added that youth should acknowledge that they have just come from a spiritually uplifting month and should continue their good practices to for a better living.

Imtiyaaz Hendricks, 20, pointed out that many of the youth start to slow down with their imaan and ibadah on the day of Eid. “In Ramadan we full of imaan and then when Eid comes we start falling away from it. It’s like a fan that turns and when we put it off – it slowly starts winding down. Some youth start falling away from good deeds and then go back to the wrong group of friends,” he said.

“My Eid day is spent like any other decent Muslim should spend it, starting with the early morning Eid salaah and then having breakfast, lunch and visiting family of both my parents side. We will go to the khubus (cemetery)and kramats and spend it like we should. So where does malls and beaches with friends fit in? It is so unnecessary and this is spoiling our youth’s identity,” added Hendricks.

“This is a huge problem and I believe that it should be looked at. We are not trying to make our Muslim youth look bad, but we are only trying to point out these things so that it can be avoided. What is more disgusting is to see Muslims drinking in bars at the Waterfront on Eid night. It is not on – it should really be pointed out to their parents. This is definitely not the way to start the next few months of your life,” said 27 year old Ashiq Uytenbogaardt.

Many parents are unaware of their children’s actions, which should be pointed out as soon as possible to avoid Muslim youth from practicing the wrong thing. “Parents need to know what’s happening in their children’s lives and need to at all times communicate to see that they don’t fall into a negative crowd. Many of our Muslim youth are falling away from Islamic practices because of the wrong crowds. So my suggestion to parents is start checking up on your kids and stop allowing them to do everything.” VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

Wednesday, 22 August 2012

11th hour shopping for Eid

Muslims in and around Cape Town are waiting with baited breath for the outcome of the annual moon sighting to determine whether Eid-ul-Fitr will be marked on Sunday. However with thousands of Muslims doing last minute Eid preparations, consumers might find themselves surrounded by crowded shops and in heavier traffic.
VOC News took to the streets to chat to shoppers to find out what the mood is like with the possibility of Eid just a few hours away. “I am quite sad that we ending the month of Ramadan as this month really went by so fast. However on the other hand, I am also excited that we will be celebrating Eid tomorrow with family and friends. I must say that running around all day is quite tiring, but I hope to accomplish all my items on my list before tonight,” said 32 year old Nurjiehaan Jacobs from Salt River.
Jacobs said that with many shops in and around her area dropping their food prices during this period, she is now able to afford more than what she expected. “Alhamdulillah I am so glad that I can afford to buy extra sweets and other items as many shops threw out huge sales on food items. My husband is the only one that works in the house and if I look at my kids, they always look out for something nice on the tables for Eid, like any child would.”
Sumaya Van Nooi, 43, from Observatory said that running around on the last minute is quite stressful, especially with loads of cake orders on her back. “Oh gosh, when I get home I still need to finish up on the kids Eid gear, and then rush to finish seven cake orders. I still need to buy the sea food mix and chicken, and once I get that out of the way, I need to finish the desserts as well. Ya Allah, this is such a stressful day for me,” she related. “I’m sure many are experiencing it at the moment. But its so typical, we as Muslims always do our last minute shopping a day before the time or on the same day,” she added.
Meanwhile, various businesses and private dress makers are finishing up with last minute orders, with customers waiting patiently. Ruqayah Martin, 42, from Mitchells Plain said that this year her orders for her silk dresses have been quite hectic. “Everything takes time and I am someone who loves putting my all in everything I do. People can’t sabr and it’s very stressful. Alhamdulillah, I will be finishing up my last few dresses today and will be ready to be delivered to customers,” she said.
“Many of them are also coming back for measurements as they either lost weight or gained weight, so I will need to do measurements again to fit it perfectly. I have a family of my own as well, so I’m glad that they understand me in times like this and I'm grateful to have daughters who can cook when I’m very busy.” With Muslim consumers scurrying to do their last bit of shopping, its all systems go for Eid. "As a mother, I don't think you're ever really ready for Eid. There's always something you've forgotten and that you really need at the last minute. At the end of the day, it all comes together anyway. There's just so much barakah in this day," said Fazeelah Davids. VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

Joy as Eid dawns

Premier Helen Zille has been a regular guest at the VOC moonsighting OB.VOC

Cape Town was blessed with sunny clear skies on Saturday, making it easy to catch a glimpse of the new moon, which marks the end of Ramadan and the start of the Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations. Thousand of Muslims in and around Cape Town made their way to Three Anchor Bay, soaking up that bit of winter sunshine on the lawns of the iconic Sea Point Promenade. Donning the headscarf to show their respect, Premier Helen Zille and Cape Town Mayor Patricia De Lille attended the event, wishing the Muslim community well for the joyous occasion.
"I am honoured to be here today and would like to wish the Muslim community a very joyous Eid Mubarak. It is always beautiful to see Muslims fast during the holy month and is extremely wonderful to know that they value their beliefs. I would love to see you continue doing what you do as this plays a great role in our heritage," Zille told the crowd. "It is a very important heritage that we can all be apart of and therefore its important to keep on as this is a way of uniting with many in the community," she added.
An overwhelmed Mayor De Lille said that she is grateful to be joining the crowd for a third year of moon-sighting. "It is always beautiful to come out here and join the Muslim community a day before Eid and witness this. It is truly amazing..." she said. "On behalf of the City of Cape Town, we would love to wish you a blessed day on Eid and do know that we are more than happy to be here."
De Lille encouraged the Muslim community to continue with various fundraising projects for the less fortunate communities. "I am proud to see the Muslim community keep up with these projects to help those in need. I would therefore like to congratulate them for their effort in playing a role to make the community a better place."
Earlier in the day, over 40 children showed up at event to collect their gift bags at the special outside broadcast dedicated to all the little who participated in this years VOC Ramadan Creative Writing project. VOC's Afternoon Cruise presenter Aeysha Laatoe said that many of the children who wrote in for the programe enjoyed the afternoon. "It was a beautiful dayl and many of these kids smiles brightened when they saw those huge gift packs. Its been a long month for them and of cause a very blessed one indeed and therefore they deserve each and every item received today."
Apart from the special OB dedicated to those kids who fasted during the holy month, little ones also received various items which included qasida cd's, a cell phone, a Quran, party packet, stationary, iftar packs and lots more. While the kids played on the lawns or in the nearby park, parents chatted noisily, eagerly awaiting the moonsighting announcement. "It is always great to come out here every year and I'm quite sad that we will be leaving the month of Ramadan. But alhamdulillah, Eid-ul-Ftr is tomorrow and I am looking forward to spending it with my family and friends, inshallah," said Rushdie Adams from Kensington.
"This is my first time coming out here today. Being from out of town, we don't usually see these things happening in our community. Just seeing the crescent moon with my naked eye, subhanallah, I almost cried, especially when the crowd started to takbir," related Layla Morton. "I just hope that everyone will continue doing good deeds like we have done during this holy month and I wish everyone a joyful and blessed Eid Mubarak inshallah." added Morton. VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

Tuesday, 14 August 2012

Qualified refugees seek jobs

Refugees in South Africa are faced with various challenges on a day to day basis, which include poverty, xenophobia as well as unemployment, despite the fact that they may be well qualified in their homelands. Speaking to VOC, Wagogo Ramadhan, the director at the Muslim Refugee Association of South Africa (MRASA) in Athlone said they were hoping the community's support for their skills development project would help refugees get on their feet.
“We need the community’s hand in this. We cannot see our fellow refugee’s camp up and suffer from poverty and unemployment. Many of them are qualified doctors, sports coaches and teachers, but are not given that opportunity for involvement in our communities. We need these people in community, for they can be a helping hand to many of us,” he said, pointing out that their upcoming employment programs could get refugees on track to make a living for their families.
“The programs that we host varies and are done every month, which includes job skills development and of cause food and clothing distributions. Many of them are talented people and despite being qualified as well, they are very much the same as us and could be of great help at various businesses,” he said, adding that they have already spoken to various companies in Cape Town to get qualified and trained refugees decent jobs and play a part in the community.
Ramadhan said that many of their programs hosted for refugees is because of various funds raised from the community. “This is a non-profit organisation aimed at uplifting the standards of refugees, religiously, socially, morally and academically. Most of the money we used to have for these projects are from the people within the community donating towards these refugees, because without your contribution, we cannot continue helping them,” he said.
According to Mymoena Karriem, the deputy director at the centre, many of the refugees lack medical assistance and are in dire need of urgent treatment. “We are receiving food and clothing each and every day, but if you actually go out to these people, you will see that they need medical attendance as well,” she urged.“I came across a old man who in one of the refugee sites and found that he had a prostate problem and was soon to go for an operation. He waited almost 18 months pleading for medical assistance until someone picked him up from the street.”
Karriem said that many are overlooking the struggles of refugees. “People don’t care anymore, they don’t even look in the direction of refugees but rather shutting them down. They are all human beings, amongst them children and women. It is important to reach out to these people and lend a hand... support them where you can,” she pleaded.
MRASA caters for refugees from different areas and they are always welcomed to approach their offices for support. However, without the communities support, the organisation will not be able to continue with its projects."If you can help in anyway please give a call as soon as possible, for it will be greatly appreciated," Karriem said. More details at 021-637 9181 or 076 430 4927. VOC (Aishah Cassiem

SADN fights closure

The Southern Africa Dawah Network (SADN) is seeking urgent help to prevent its closure. Speaking to VOC’s Afternoon Cruise, Abubakr Mseleku, one of the project coordinators, said that with the centre’s financial conditions, many underprivileged children attending the centre’s madrassa could soon be affected by the lack of operational funds.
“Most of the children in the community, who are attending our madrassa from Monday to Friday, come from underprivileged backgrounds. We have about 45 kids at our centre as well and this is the reason why we have various projects, including the feeding scheme which is run at our centre during the week. It is very important and we need to see that they are fed and getting the proper education a child is ought to get,” he said.
Since the centre operates daily, they are forced to raise fund to pay for utilities. “We need to raise funds constantly to cover our costs so that we are able to keep operating.” This compelled the centre seek help from the community. “We need people to support our fundraisers as all money and donations are used for the centre. We are also asking people to support our ‘Sponsor a Child’ initiative for only R85 per child. This donation will go towards clothing, food, toiletries and much needed goods for these kids,” he urged.
Those who could offer a sewing machine to the centre should come forward. SADN have already received various fabrics to make the children clothing. "Whether it’s an old machine that you are not using or fabric that might be useful – drop it off, for it will be greatly appreciated,” said Mseleku. If you would like to donate towards the Southern Africa Dawah Network, you can contact Abubakr Mseleku on 031-304-8000 or email sadm@mweb.co.za . VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

Monday, 13 August 2012

M/berg policing enhanced

The Manenberg policing precinct are on a high alert to prevent a further increase of gansgtersim and crime amongst youth, and are now taking on residents to help enhance policing activities in the community. Speaking to VOC’s Afternoon Cruise on Friday, Lieutenant Ian Bennett from Manenberg SAPS urged residents in Manenberg to take ownership of their community as soon as possible.
“This is a very serious situation in the Manenberg area and it needs to be looked at frequently. Residents need to take their power back as our young children are being led in the wrong direction, with no support from their parents as to what is wrong and what is right. We need to step in and do something about it, along with the broader community, to prevent the neighbourhood from falling deeper into negativity,” he said.
Residents need to interact and start working together again, in order to get back on track with the community. “A few years back we used to have home guards in various areas. The people in the community would help us to ensure nothing untoward takes place in the area, especially with the youngsters," said Bennett.
"This was so effective way back and no one would dare to walk through certain areas because they would be to scared that we would expose them and tell their parents."
According to Bennett, there was no sense of togetherness within the community. "We are not as close as a community ought to be... we don’t even know our next door neighbours and we are not concerned about their struggles anymore. We need to care more about our people and see whats happening around us, but no, we keep on looking past it and just don’t care about each other anymore. All we are worried about is ourselves. And this is the reason why many young youth are sitting in prison,” he said.
“Many people look at us and say that we just want to lock up people and prosecute them for their wrong doings, but yet we as SAPS know that there are underlining issues that causes these things in communities. It is all simple things and that is why we want to make an awareness of how parents and the community play an important role when it comes to preventing these kinds of things,” he continued.

Communication

One of the main aims of the police is to form a partnership with the community as well as a strong partnership with the parents themselves. Parents are not communicating with their kids, and this is where things start to go wrong, Bennett said. He urged parents in the Manenberg area to start communicating with their children.
“Communication is the most important thing in a household. We need to speak to our children at all times and see what it is that is bothering them. If we are not speaking to our kids, they will go out and get information they need to know, in other places...places that might not necessary be positive for them. Only you as the parent can tell your kids of the struggles and importance of making right decisions,” he said.
Bennett pointed out that many parents in the area are missing certain structures in their day to day lives. “With the community of Manenberg, things are starting to fall out of place and parents are reprimanding their kids in a negative way. When parents say they are strict with their kids, many of them refer to being vulgar, beating their kids up for anything, not taking any nonsense. They need to be reprimanded in a positive way. A child need recognition every day, when he comes from school or from his friends... ask what is it that is bothering. Make up that conversation with them as this creates a place for communication between the parents and child,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Manenberg policing precinct is conducting strict supervision, keeping a watchful eye at all three sectors, said Benett. “We have sections all over Manenberg with managers operating each and every day. Each of these three sectors has a vibrant manger that is willing to make a difference in the community. They know what it is like in the area and all three of them live within the area themselves, witnessing these things on a daily basis."
He said that with the support of residents in the neighbourhood, Manenberg could be decreasing crime amongst youth very soon. “Our success is based on volunteers and with the people who give their time to make the area a better and safe environment. They serve the people in this area free of charge and I’m grateful to say that this helps us tremendously. We are already seeing bits of improvement amongst youth and hopefully with more support from residents, we are likely to achieve our goals soon.”
Bennett urged the men in the community to come forward and help assist the female volunteers with their safety activities. “The mothers and wives of Manenberg are the ones who are going out and volunteering to keep children on a safe track. However, I am urging the men especially to come on board and help us. Take of your time to help make this area a safe and better environment for the community, especially our kids.”
If you would like to know more on how you can contribute towards the safety activities in Manenberg or if you would like to volunteer, you can contact Lieutenant Ian Bennett on 082 522 0714. VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

Sunday, 12 August 2012

Hijaabi inspiration

Monday, 6 August 2012

Kensington Home in danger

The Kensington Home for the Aged has been serving the destitute from various communities in Cape Town for many years and recently celebrated their 41st anniversary in the company of residents situated on the premises. Unfortunately due to the centre’s management unable to keep up with operating expenses, the organization could soon find themselves shutting down, leaving residents homeless. Speaking to VOC Afternoon Cruise, the centre’s manager Brian Beck issued an urgent appeal to the broader community to help raise funds.
“It still haunts me very much to think that this home might shut down one of these days due to financial problems. With 110 elderly residents cared for at the home who needs to be seen to 24/7, I cannot imagine how it will affect them...” Beck said the history of this home speaks for its self. Taking charge of the facility for the past four months, made him realise how much had been into this home. He said the home has always reached out to the other communities as well, including Khayelitsha, Mitchells Plain and Bishop Lavis.
“In the past we were allocated to certain standards and building restrictions, so we are confined in supplying the accommodation for the 110 people. With fundraising being done, I am hoping to increase the space.” Beck said that not only does the elderly need to be seen to every day, but they also have a daily staff team dedicated to the home.
“Regardless of money being given out on food, medication and necessary items for the old age, we also have 63 staff members in total that needs to be paid each month for their effort and 24/7 attendance at the home,” he explained. With an annual short flow of R462 000 per annum, he fears that they might not be able to pay staff. “Any business is governed by the flow of income and your cash flow. When you look at the annual short flow per annum, it is very scary. Since we’ve gone public and drawn the media to our plight – I am certain that there are many people out there who will see the need to help us especially the destitute and elderly,” he said.
At the moment, the centre receives R295,000 a month from social services and spends a lot on nursing care during the month, with the bulk of it for salaries. The centre spends R132,000 for nursing care alone. “We service everything for the frail and care for them, servicing them with daily clinic checkups and fulltime nursing staff. We have 23 nursing members as well, under a registered sister who comes in every week and does a great job with ill residents, and not forgetting our cooks too. So we have to bear in mind that all these aspects are necessary at the home,’’ he said.
In the meantime, the home’s management are calling on surrounding communities to support their small market days held at the home every month to raise funds in order to continue their services. If you would like to know more about the home or how you can contribute you can contact Beck on 021-5932274. VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

the Road Home

The road home

Taking this road home everyday ...

stucked in traffic evens worste..

but days like these..

i can snap pics forever...

old Strandfontein Road..

still standing

Single mom needs aid

One concerned brother has made a desperate plea for his sister, who finds herself in dire circumstances. Abdulatief Sallie spoke to VOC’s Afternoon Cruise, urging the community to help assist his unemployed sister Naeelah Du Toit, a single mother from Delft. “My sister is a very important person in my life and she has recently been going through a very severe period. With her being unemployed and at the same time looking after our eldest brother who has been disabled for the past 15 years, I can imagine how hard it is for her to cope every day,” he said.
After his sister’s unsuccessful marriage four years ago, the single mother is now left alone to provide for her children. “Not only is she looking after my brother who needs attention 24/7, but she also has two children who she needs to look after each and every day. It is very hard for her and most of the time, our family brings her food and money because there’s no income except for my brother’s disability money,” he said.
With the disability grant the only income in the household, it is only enough to cover for his brother’s medical needs and less than a week’s food provision in his sister’s home. “We know what it is like to provide and see that there is food and various items used in the house every day. We all have things that needs to be catered for in our daily lives and for my sister, it hurts to see her struggling like this with no income,” he said.
Sallie also urged the community to help contribute towards new burglar bars that they plan to buy for the family after a recent break-in that took place at Du Toit's residents. “The area is known for having incidents like this on a daily basis. It is quite dangerous and with her being alone with the kids and no male that can look after them, anything can happen. With the recent break-in I am desperate for her to put burglar bars on and that’s why I am urging those who can give to please support and give something towards my sister and her family, insha Allah,” he pleaded.
Du Toit's boys are only 13 and 18 years of age. The eldest son matriculated last year and has since been looking for work to bring an income in the house. Sallie said he has tried at many places but is still looking. He will accept any job there, as long as it can help the family and bring in an income for his mother, brother and uncle.
He urged the community to donate towards the family in any possible way they can. “Please, if there is someone out there who would like to help or contribute in any way, do come forward. My sister is in much need and with her two sons to look after as well, it is so hard especially with her being unemployed. If there is anyone who can offer her son a job as well or offer to assist looking after our disabled brother as well, please come forward...it will be greatly appreciated.”
If you would like to know more about the family or how you can contribute, you may contact Naeelah Du Toit on 021 956 0104/083 719 9934 or Abdulatief Sallie on 082 941 7482. VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

Team SA focused

With the South African team already pulling off three gold medals in the sixth day of the 2012 Olympics game held in London, inspired athletes are at their feet, focused at showing the rest of the world that South Africa is more than what the media portray them to be. Speaking to VOC Sports Live, Patience Shikwambana, the official spokesperson for the South African Olympic Team, said the team has been inspired and determined since the achievements of their team mates.
“It was a celebration when we received our first gold medal from Cameron van der Burgh. All the South African athletes had really made us proud thus far and the team have been doing really good throwing out such exceptional results at this year’s game," she said. The SA team is focused on increasing the amount of medals gained at the games.
“Let’s look at what we have in our country, look at our talents and ask people to come and assist us. We have exceptional talent amongst our youth especially and many of them are at this year’s game. We are going to use some of the achievements of this team and see how we can build us up from where we are now.” She said that the team is aiming to improve the corners they had missed out on during the last Olympic games held in Beijing a few years ago.
“We want to continue and change what we left out at the Beijing Olympics. This year’s achievements had really inspired many of the athletes here in London, mostly the youth as well as our athletes back in South Africa. Many of them said that they are going for it and that they will try their best, as anything is possible,” she said.
She added that with this year’s game, while the team goes through the various rounds of the competition, they will also be keeping a close eye on the performances of athletes. “We want to monitor these athletes and assess as well, because come 2020 for the next Olympics, we will know what needs to be worked on. We need to evaluate on the areas that needs to be worked on and look at how we going to improve it."
Shikwambana pointed out that with the team’s success, people will be able to see the country in another way. “The guys have been doing really well, and Cameron van der Burgh and Chad le Clos being the first South African men to win individual gold medals in Olympic swimming, is another extra that inspired the athletes to push harder showing the world that SA has more to it,” she said.
Shikwambana said that they have not yet overcome any security problems and said that the team is strictly adhering to London’s rules. “We have punted a strict order to the athletes and encouraged them to behave the same way that they have when they left South Africa. To the people who are planning on coming down to London to support us, please do the same as well and respect the country's rules. Please show the world our excellencies in discipline,” she urged.
In the meantime, Shikwambana said they are trying to keep Caster Semenya out of the media for this year’s game. “Caster needs to be focused and we want to make sure that she is not exposed to the media as many questions are being asked about her. She has been very clear to the media and said that she wants to be focused on the game. However, I must say that she is doing very well and I’m proud of her,” she said, urging the youth back home in South Africa to engage in sports activities as soon as possible.
“We want to work with the youth and punt to them that if they start training now, there is a great possibility for them to get the opportunity to participate in the 2020 Olympics. We only hope that these athletes are going to show us more of their potential and that they going to get us far in this year’s game. It takes a lot of hard work and focus for the team and I’m positive that they will do a great job at this year’s game. To our South African supporters as well, thanks for standing behind us for this inspires the team to focus, with the aims of bringing home these medals.” VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

Wednesday, 1 August 2012

Pagad to walk through M/Berg

Members of the drug support group People Against Gangsterism and Drugs (Pagad) will be marching through the streets of Manenberg on Sunday to draw attention to the gangsterism and substance abuse crisis in the area. After a lull of a few years, gang-related shootings resurfaced in the area a few months, claiming two innocent lives. At the same time, violence escalated in other gang hotspots such as Hanover Park, Elsies River and Lavender Hill. Pagad spokesperson Abiedah Roberts said people in the broader Manenberg community need to start being proactive in how they are addressing the problem in the community.
“People need to realize these kind of things and also realize that they can do something about it. Therefore, we are taking to the streets of Manenberg to create awareness and highlight this serious issue,” she said. The organization aims to empower the broader community to allow them to stand up and create a better environment for children.
Sahib Baker, one of the coordinators for Pagad’s Manenberg branch, linked the situation in the area to that of the rest of the country. “Many young children have been raped and killed in this area by gangsters and drug dealers, and it is getting out of control. In most areas in Manenberg, there are drug peddlers who are destroying our country and therefore we going go out in the area to encourage people to take control of the situation,” he said.
Baker said residents within the area need to start mobilizing in the community and they need to change the economic situation. “We want to also mobilize with them and encourage them to mobilize under the banner of Pagad. Together we will meet and get rid of these gangsters and drug dealers.” He said it was important that the suffering of people in the area comes to an end. “We need to see that all these negative things end, as well as the drug dealers and gangsters too.”
He urged people in the community to join them on the public walk to raise awareness. "It’s an opportunity for them to take control and Pagad is once again creating a platform for them to do it." The public walk will take place between 2-4pm from the Downs Primary School in Tagus Road, Manenberg. For more information, contact the Pagad offices on 021-4651 379 or call Rashaad on 082 510 3859. VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

Phillippi Muslims need aid

As Muslims increase their goodwill in Ramadan, the Nurush Shabaab organization are calling on the broader community to assist them to provide relief to the destitute this month. The organisation has been assisting the Rahman Islamic Association in the Eisleben end of Brown's Farm in Phillippi for the past two years. Rashaad Chellan, one of the facilitators, told VOC’s Afternoon Cruise that the need for basic items increases in winter and Ramadan is even more difficult for those fasting.
"The Rahman Islamic Association has been in existence for quite some time now with a structure for children and quarters for ladies. We at all times need to do fundraising to uphold this project,” he said. More than 51 Muslim families in the area have been benefiting from the organization over the past few months and that they are at all times in need of funding.
“We must remember that people need to eat every single day of their lives and when one looks at the needs in the family it is not just food, but also clothing, blankets and lots more. It is the month of Ramadan, the month of helping those in need and therefore it is important to feed those who cannot afford and put a smile on their faces, insha Allah," said Chellan.
The majority of the families they are assisting are foreign Muslim people. "Many come from Sudan and Kenya, have married South African women and from there, have grown their family. They speak Arabic well and many have embraced Islam throughout the past few months..." The organisation also teaches students the correct pronunciation of the Quran and many children are getting along well. “It is very important to us that these kids also learn and benefit from the holy Quran. We want to prepare them and teach them so that when they go out in public, they will be able to read correctly, insha Allah,” said Chellan.
He urged the broader community to donate towards the organization by sponsoring food items, blankets and suitable clothing for the Muslim families within the area. If you would like to know more on the organization or how you can assist, you can contact Rashaad Chellan on 021-692 0568. VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

AWS warms hearts

Masjidul Ummah in Gustrouw, Strand.Aishah Cassiem

More than 300 people braved the winter chill on Sunday for the first Ahlan Wa Sahlan (AWS) outreach programme, which kickstarted at Masjidul Ummah in Strand. Throngs of men, women and children filled up the masjid shortly after Asr salah, ready to recite the holy Quran and share an iftar meal with one another. The annual project aims to bring communities together in Ramadan, whilst also assisting them with blankets, clothing and a meal to break their fast. Dressed in beautiful abayas and stylish hijabs, women in the small community gathered together their savouries and cakes inside the masjid, preparing for the itfar program which fed many families on the day.
Raighanah Manuel, 42, said that she is very passionate about helping others and with this year’s AWS programme in her community, she was overwhelmed. “When my husband told me that VOC will be at our community masjid along with the AWS programme – I immediately started gathering items to bring with today. There are so many people, even in my own street that needs support and many of them are unemployed as well,” she said.
Manuel said that she had been up since 9am on the day baking for the iftar program at the masjid. “With the contribution of the community I’m sure it shouldn’t be a problem to do something like this every week. There are lots of our Muslim brothers and sisters who are attending the program today who have no food in their homes. I made savouries and cupcakes for the event and will be sharing it, insha Allah."
Students at the masjid also recited the Quran up until Asr prayers. Muktar Adams, another resident in the community, said he was fascinated to see the students at the madrassa recite. “We should shukr Allah for giving these kids the ability to recite this well. There are many adults who are longing to read a single word in the Quran and I am amazed to see how well these small ones recite.”
Ebrahim Arnold, one of the project’s founding members, said with this year’s initiative, they are hoping to increase support from the community. “Alhamdulillah, we have been receiving blankets and clothing items since early this morning and the community is really playing their part in this initiative. However, we are hoping to increase and encourage more people in the community to come forward and contribute towards this good cause,” he urged.
Arnold said many other poverty stricken areas will be looked at this year. “Many of these places that we will be assisting are poverty areas like Parkwood, Bonteheuwel and more. They need support and there are many Muslims also living amongst these places. We want to try and give out as much this year and hope that it will benefit those needy people,” he said.
He added that many people in the community contributed towards the iftar program as well. “We had women step in earlier with buckets full of assorted savouries and cakes as well as pots of foods being made to feed those here today. We have seen a lot of support and it looks as if people will still be dropping off till the very end,” he said. With the upcoming AWS events running throughout Ramadan, Arnold urged those from other communities to come into the poverty stricken areas to volunteer.
The thikr continued throughout the afternoon with various Qurans and learning books being handed out to those that attended. Those who attended the iftar program where also fed various delicacies, including iftar goodie bags which consisted of fruit, water and dates. Stay tuned to The Voice of the Cape for more information on the next Ahlan Wa Sahlan program or contact the VOC offices on 021442 3500. VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

Du Noon mosque opens

It was an early start for Muslims in the township of Du Noon on the second day of Ramadan on Sunday as they celebrated the opening of a new masjid in the area. The VOC OB team was out on the road shortly after suhoor to set up a live broadcast from the newly built masjid, which brought together over 100 men, women and children. The community filled up the small masjid and many were brought to tears in the new prayer facility, as they watched their family members taking their shahadah.
The jampacked spiritual program started off with a thikr by the Naqshbandi Jamah which led up until 10am proceeding into the official launch. Adiel Kader, one of the project coordinators, said many Muslims in the area will now be able to benefit from proper masjid facilities. “Many people have helped us accomplish the masjid and we say shukran for your contribution in upholding the Muslim community for this is the start to new things, insha Allah,” he said.
The mosque is divided into three sections: the mosque area, soup kitchen and a separate area for the living quarters. Men and women are using the same salaah area with the women lining up behind men during prayer times. “At the moment we are forced to accommodate the musallees like this as we still in the process of renovating the masjid. At a later stage, we hope to build the women a separate area as well," said Kader.
Whilst the mosque is still relatively new, many students are already at the madrassa and are learning quite fast. “It is amazing to see how these kids pick up and the parents themselves are happy to see them being educated. We want to make these youngsters better Muslims so that they can a be an example and help those in the community to do good and stay away from negativity," said Kader. Amongst the guest speakers delivering supportive words at the launch, were members of the Naqshbandi group such as the well known Professor Dr Yusuf De Costa. De Costa guided more than five township residents who embraced Islam on the day, leaving them in tears as they declared their shahadah.
Khadijah Kassim, who reverted to Islam in 2010, said that she was glad to see that her township now has masjid. “Alhamdulillah, with the new masjid in the area, it is now easier for my family to walk over at any time of the day to make salaah. I am glad that the masjid is fully completed...watching my husband help the other men build this masjid over the past few months was great and I hope many will benefit from it, insha Allah,” she related.
Kader said they have been building masajid in various informal settlements and are looking forward to doing more in the future. “In the Western Cape, we work in areas like Delft, Sea Winds and Blikkiesdorp. We have built masajid in various parts of the province including other provinces as well. Although, we are building these facilities to pray, we are also doing other fundraising projects to maintain the food parcels and soup kitchens that is run twice to thrice on a weekly basis,” he explained.
The madrassa is an encouragement for youth to uplift their community and is very much needed in the area. “It is not only a place of learning but also that of a meeting place to discuss their society. More importantly, it is a place where the Almighty (swt) is remembered and worshiped and no other better place than his house indeed,” he said. With the many Muslim residents in the township making use of the prayer facilities, committee members said that they are happy to be helping those in the underprivileged area and hope to spread the word of Islam to many more in the area. VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

MPN does fitrah project

After a successful drive last year in which they collected more than R130,000, the Muslim Professionals Network (MPN) will once again be undertaking a initiative during the holy month of Ramadan, to supply fitrah parcels every weekend to less fortunate communities in Cape Town. Nabeel Yasin, one of the fundraising coordinators, told VOC’s Saturday Live that with the fitra drive in its third year, they are hoping to increase the funding this year to support more communities.
“It is very important to go out and look at what’s happening in various communities. There are a lot of families out there who will be sitting without food this Ramadan and that’s why we are urging the broader community to contribute towards the fitra parcels so that we can give out more this year, insha Allah,” he said. “The fitrah project is a must every Ramadan for the organization and we have already received numerous donations towards it.
"We are hoping with your support, we can feed the less fortunate this year again." Yasin said the donations will be handed out to the underprivileged communities in Blikkiesdorp, Langa and Manenberg. “Not only will we be giving out to these communities but we also have a list of other places that I think needs to be supported more like Delft, Belhar and surrounding areas,” he related.
He said that once monies has been collected, they go out to buy certain food items and place it in parcels ready to be handed out to the people. “We go to Elite Cash and Carry in Athlone and they have the fitrah parcels made up for us, and when the money is ready we drop it off and collect the goodies and the parcels are ready for delivery," he said.
He said that all monies that are left over from donations is put together to make pots of food. “What we also do each year is, make pots of food and take it out into these communities to feed people before iftar time. It is not just for Muslims but we also prepare food for underprivileged non Muslim people as well as part of dawah,” he added.
Yasin also urged members in the community to help the organization with distribution. “We will also need volunteers to deliver the parcels so please contact us if you are available to help drop off,” he said. Donations towards the fitrah project are R100 and can be given at the Muslim Professional Network offices. If you would like to donate in any other way you can contact Nabeel Yasin on 082 637 2163. VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

AWS goes to Strand

Gift of the Givers joins VOC once more for the Ahlan wa Sahlan outreach in the Strand where last month they also disbursed much needed aid on two occasions.VOC

VOC staff and Ahlan Wa Sahlan (AWS) team take the long road to Masjidul Ummah in Gustrouw, Strand this Sunday, the first stop for the annual Ramadan outreach project. The community social initiative, now in its 13th year, targets a different mosque every week and aims to lend a hand to poverty stricken areas in the Western Cape during the holy month.
This year, VOC has once again brought on board humanitarian organisation, Gift of the Givers (GOTG), to provide needy residents with 500 blankets. These will be handed out by the mosque committee later in the week to deserving families. According to GOTG's Gawa Sayed, they will also assist with goodies for the Iftar, as well and a warm meal for those needy persons attending the initiative.
One of the project’s committee members, Fuad Behardien, said Strand has always been considered a place of leisure for well-off families, because of its proximity to the beach. However, there are a large number of destitute families in areas like Tarentaalplaas, Bllkkiesdorp, Nomzamo and Llwandle. “There are those who can not afford much, many of whom who live from hand to mouth. In these sub economic areas, poverty levels are very high. The unemployment is also increasing and there are many who want to work, but are unable to find work,” he said. As an educator at the local Muslim high school, Madrasatur Raja, he said they often witness the conditions of children who have little to live on.
Niyamatullah Noordien from the Strand Muslim Council said choosing the Ummah Masjid, the second largest mosque in Strand, for this year’s AWS program was a great gift to many underprivileged families in Strand. “In the immediate area of the masjid, the poverty is visible. Since its establishment, the masjid has been working with those affected. To see the faces of these children when they are given something to eat is just sad as many of them stand in long lines,” he related.
One of their projects is a regular soup kitchens twice a week to feed underprivileged people and the jamah sponsors bread towards it each week. “We want to try and do whatever we can to contribute to these people. Many of the children stand in the queue as early with their buckets. In fact, the majority of those standing in the line are young children.”
Noordien said that with a full program for the day, they are hoping to get the broader Strand community to join the visitors from Cape Town. “We are not just calling on the Strand community, but those in other communities as well. The main aim is for the community to participate in this beneficial program, just stepping inside the masjid to recite is already a great blessing, insha Allah.”

Addressing poverty

Rajab Devajee of VOC's Community Forum, said that choosing the areas for the 2012 AWS program was not easy. “Every year, the AWS committee sits at a round table to discuss where our next projects will be taking place. It is one of the hardest decisions, because all over Cape Town there are places with very high poverty levels,” he said. “One of the names that came up was Strand and we found that there is a little place called Tarentaalplaas, where poverty is rife. This is when we realised, we have been all over, but not to the Strand for AWS.”
Ebrahim Arnold, one of the project’s founding members, said many new areas have been added to the AWS list this year. “We have almost been around all the townships in the Peninsula and this year we will be going to places that we haven’t been to before, including Bonteheuwel, Ocean View, Parkwood Estate and Strand. Alhamdulillah, we have expanded the areas that we are covering and are ready for this year's initiative.” Arnold added the needs in poverty stricken communities were highest in winter.
“So the need for assistance is even more vital. People not only need food, but blankets and clothing. But we also have to look at these needs all year, not just in winter or Ramadan,’’ he said. Those who are able to donate towards the initiative in terms of non-perishable goods and good quality clothing can drop items off at the masjid on the day or at the GOTG warehouse in Athlone Industria. But the event was also about celebrating the Quran, said Arnold, who urged the community to join them for the Khatam, led by local youth, as well as for the communal iftar. To this end people were welcome to bring food with which to share at iftar.
The AWS programme will be taking place from 3pm Sunday and will proceed until Maghrib and facilities are available for women. If you would like to know more about the programme, contact VOC’s offices on 021-442 3507 or Gawa Sayed of Gift of the Givers Cape Town on 021-638 7909. VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

Taraweeg at Hermanus mosque

After the launch of the An-Noor masjid in December last year, under the auspices of the Ismail and Mariam Ebrahim Trust, Muslims in the small town of Hermanus are now able to perform their first taraweeh this Ramadan. Established by the Ebrahim brothers, the director of Oasis Group Holdings, the masjid will be a centre of religious activity in coastal town, known for whale watching. This is also the second mosque to be erected in the scenic holiday town.
Oasis deputy chairman Nazeem Ebrahim said with the spiritual month Ramadan beginning, will showcase one of the best Quranic reciters from Cape Town. Sheik Abdurrahmaan Salie will be performing taraweeh prayers every night together with two of his students. “I am definitely encouraging the broader community to come down and listen to this melodious rendering of the Quran done by these great scholars, insha Allah,” he said.
With the beautiful view of the ocean, retired members in the community are more than welcome to come through to the masjid during the day, to sit on the cliffs while reading the Quran. The Muslim community in Hermanus was increasing by the day, he said. “A few years back we had a little Muslims in the area. Today we find that there are various families in and around the Hermanus community. Alhamdulillah it is growing by the day. We receive more than 60 males each week for Jumuah including foreigners and those travelling on the long roads,” he explained.
He added that lots of people within the community have embraced Islam throughout the past few months. With the masjid being fully financed, there is no need for contributions to the daily running of the mosque. But he appealed to those who are able to donate, to support when in time of need. “We hope that there will never be another year of Ramadan where the Quran is not recited in a masjid in the area, Insha Allah.” VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

Valkenberg project needs help

The Friends of Valkenburg Trust will be hosting their first casual day initiative this year and is calling on the community to support them with their fundraiser in order to keep various projects running at the Valkenburg hospital in Observatory. Events coordinator, Marsha van den Berg, urged the public to come forward and contribute towards the project. “It is important that we at all times raise money because without funds we are unable to host projects that these patients benefit from on a daily basis. We therefore decided that we are going to host our very own casual day, making it the first project of such kind at the hospital,” she said.
Hospital volunteers will be selling casual day stickers from their offices in Observatory, which will go towards their daily projects. All monies raised from these stickers will go towards the purchasing of various materials and items needed to continue our projects at the hospitals. "Because there are various projects that these patients engage in, we are forced to raise these funds to cover each and every one of it,” she explained.
Those who purchase tickets for the casual day are encouraged to wear clothing according to their theme. “Once you purchase the sticker you will find that the theme says ‘come on board’, and therefore we are asking you to come on board and support us on this initiative and wear your blue clothing in support of the Friends of Valkenberg for only R10." She added that R4 will go towards the Trust.
Van den Berg said that there are 40 volunteers that will do their time at the hospital hosting various projects with the patients throughout the year. “We have volunteers from various places, including international males and females who come to support and help these patients with various projects on a daily basis. It is amazing to see how they work with these patients and how they put their every bit in what they do,” she explained.
Van den Berg added that most of the project ideas come from the volunteers themselves. “They have started arts and crafts projects, hair salon and cooking projects and various other interesting projects to keep the friends of Valkenberg busy,” she said. “Because it costs to buy items for these projects, we are forced to do fundraising to purchase the material. Everything works on money at the hospital and if we can’t keep up at it, we won’t be able to afford to continue these projects,” she said.
She encouraged the broader community especially youth to come on board with this year’s project. “We have various students from the University of Western Cape who are assisting us on these projects and encouraging more students to come forward to assist. We are however calling on more people to do voluntary work, assisting on these projects."
Those who are interested in volunteering will be interviewed by the volunteer coordinator before working with patients. To know more about the Friends of Valkenberg Trust or how you can contribute towards the casual day fundraiser, contact Marsha van den Berg on 082 494 8920 call their offices on 021-4472092. VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

Gift parcels for orphans

A non-profit organisation in Cape Town is calling on the community to assist them with their annual initiative of distributing gift parcels for children at various orphanages in the Mother City this Ramadan. Zaakirah Sayed, one of the project coordinators at Janjira Hafsaani, said that they have been preparing gift parcels for orphans for the past five years.
“This particular project only takes place during Ramadan where we look at various orphanages asking the kids to draw up a list of things they want. Once they return the letters to us, we then try and buy these items for the kids. Therefore, each child will be looked at individually and will have a different gift bag than the other,” she said.
Sayed said that other than distributing the wish list items, they are also collecting sponsored toiletries, toys, clothes and sweets for the kids. “The gift bags will consist of various items and although they will have their own goodies they asked for in their letters, we will still make sure that it includes important daily items like toothpaste, razors, soap, roll-on and etc..."
They also embark on other projects by getting youth involved with the organization to do voluntary work. “We are always looking for people to volunteer on our projects and that’s why I am encouraging youth especially to give us a hand, even if it means packing these items in the bags and going with us to distribute it at the orphanage homes,” she said.
The initiative is held under the auspices of Janjira Hafsaani Social and Education Society, which has been in existence for many years. They are also aim at promoting social wellbeing in the broader community. Sayed said that many people within the community have already come forward to contribute towards the initiative.
“Alhamdulillah, people have come forward and offered their service on this initiative and it is going smoothly so far. However, we still have a few more things that we need to get. We have a list that we are looking at and if anyone can contribute an item towards the parcels then this initiative will once again be successful, insha Allah. If you are able to contribute, then we are asking you to please drop it off at our offices or the Dullah Omar Centre in Rylands,” she said, adding that those who do not have transport can make the necessary arrangements with them.
Volunteers and staff members of the organization will be packing the bags on Saturday 11th August to be distributed on Sunday 12th August. Those who would still like to contribute can drop off items at the centre before 10am on the day. “We are appealing to the community to please come forward and help us put a smile on these kids’ faces this Ramadan. There are so many orphans we are looking at this year including children from Vision Child and Youth Centre, Al Noor and lots more. With us being in the holy month of Ramadan, let’s do this for the kids and put a smile on their faces, insha Allah."
If you would like to know more about this initiative or how you can contribute, you can contact Zaakirah Sayed on 076 541 2345 or email her on zakirasayed@yahoo.com . VOC(Aishah Cassiem)

Poverty rife in Oceanview

Volunteers assisting with the food distribution at the 2nd AWS program in Oceanview on Sunday.Aishah Cassiem

VOC and Gift of the Givers (GOTG) were welcomed with warm hearts into the Oceanview community on Sunday for the second phase of the Ahlan Wa Sahlan (AWS) Ramadan outreach program. In the midst of winter, it was a beautiful sunny day for Cape Town, and volunteers took advantage of the afternoon to soak up the beautiful scenery of Fish Hoek, before reaching their destination of Oceanview.
Over 400 men, women and children made their way to the Nurul Islam masjid in Milky Way in support of the annual AWS initiative, with many dropping off food and clothing items for underprivileged residents in the community. VOC and GOTG volunteers arrived with fully loaded trucks of food, fruit and other food items as many impoverished residents lined up to get their share of the distribution after Maghrib.
Imam Abdul Hakeem Raban, the head imam at the masjid, said that with the highly poverty stricken area, they are forced to ask for assistance at many times to support the broader Muslim community in Oceanview. “The Muslim community in Oceanview is growing by the day and each and every week we have over 200 men visiting the masjid for daily prayers. However, with poverty being a problem in the area, many of these residence struggle to find themselves jobs and therefore we have a high unemployment rate in the community,” he said.
Raban added that although the area has numerous factories and businesses, there are still not enough work opportunities for people. “It is very hard for these people to find jobs and even though many make a living from fishing, I can assure you that it is not easy and that they can’t depend on that any more. That's because there are lots of fishing restrictions nowadays,” he said.
With the masjid's daily Islamic programs taking place, many residents are able to benefit and the kids themselves pick up very quickly. “We have various programs for the community as well as thikrs taking place every Thursday. The community is very privileged as the Muslim community is a strong one indeed and more and more are coming to the masjid every day," he said.
“We are trying to create more activities for the people to engage in. However, other than Islamic activities run at the masjid, we also have our monthly projects, where we give out to those who don’t have through our weekly soup kitchens. On days like these we will find many people lining up outside the masjid's premises with their bowls and families,” he added.
The mosque also hosts a monthly lunch set out for the community in the masjid's hall on the premises. Many non-Muslims are also welcome on these days. “If you can just see the Muslims and non-Muslims interact with each other when it comes to sharing it is amazing. The Oceanview community is almost like a republic on its own,” said Raban,urging the public to donate towards their monthly initiative and said that with the help of the broader community, many things would fall into place.
In the meantime, Ebrahiem Arnold, one of the coordinators of AWS, said that with the initiative heading into its third week, he is hoping to see as much support on Sunday 5 August, when the program moves to Bonteheuwel community masjid. "The spirit in Oceanview was amazing...they are a vibrant community. We hope to see the same vibe in Bonteheuwel next weekend and we urge the broader community to join us in the Khatmul-Quran programme," he encouraged. All donations for the AWS project can be dropped off at Gift of the Givers warehouse in Athlone. VOC (Aishah Cassiem)