A high level delegation from the prestigious Al Azhar University in Cairo in Egypt are visiting Cape Town this week to engage with the Muslim community. The academics have been sent to the Mother City for what has been dubbed a “Caravan of Peace”. The scholars Dr Mohammad Fawzy Abdul Hay, Dr Abdullah Mohammad Abdeen, Dr Mohammad El Amin Mohammad have travelled globally in their mission to spread peace and tolerance in Islam.

“Despite the political situation [in Egypt], Al Azhar is growing,” said Dr Mohammad Fawzy Abdul Hay.

“We hope to have good strong relationship with Cape Town, because we believe it’s the centre of Islam in this part of the continent. It’s a good source for Islamic knowledge and education. When you have good education, you have more opportunities in life.”

Aspiring students to Al Azhar and former graduates will be able to engage with the scholars at various meeting points. The MJC have arranged various programmes for the delegation across the city:

Wednesday:
Inter-religious programme at the MJC
Lappert Street masjid in Paarl for iftaar
Thursday:
IPSA programme from 11 – 1pm
Iftar at Masjidur Raghmaan in Hanover Park

MJC deputy president, Sheikh Riad Fataar, an Al Azhar alumnus, said Cape Town’s Muslim community has strong ties with Al Azhar, as many of our esteemed ulema have graduated from the university.

“It’s an honour to be hosting them in Cape Town,” said Fataar.

“It’s their first time in South Africa and they have chosen Cape Town as their destination. They are absolutely in awe of the Mother City’s beauty. Muslims as a minority always leave a great impression on visitors that come.”

Tune into VOC Drivetime for a chat with the delegation on Thursday at 16.15pm. VOC