Cape Town has again proven that it produces world class huffath, with 11 year old Igsaan Bassadien taking the gold in the annual Abdul Aziz International Quran Memorization competition in Makkah. The youngster won first prize in the five juz category on Wednesday afternoon, after wowing judges with his confidence and stellar recitation.

Maulana Mohammad Seedat, the national coordinator of the South African National Quran Competition (SANQA), said fellow contestants Adeeb Harneker from Cape Town and Mohammed Bhamjee from Nelspruit performed very well and reached the final stages of the competition.

“Alhamdulillah, we have to congratulate all three participants, their parents and ustaadhs, for the sterling work and effort they have put into their children,” said Seedat.

Igsaan’s mother Faldeela Bassadien was elated upon hearing the news and filled with tears. Her husband is accompanying their son to the competition in the Masjid al Haram.

“There was a lot of emotion. These students are representing South Africa and it is a great honour for all of us as Muslims in the southern part of Africa,” said Seedat.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was abuzz with excitement as live coverage of the international Quran competition was broadcast on both TV and nationally and internationally. The students will be treated to a tour around Makkah and then two days in Madinah. They are expected to return home on Monday. VOC

To listen to one of Igsaan’s recitations, click here: http://iono.fm/e/117311