Within two weeks since its launch, the Husami masjid in Cravenby has raised a whopping R120 000 for the Gaza Water Project. VOC in partnership with the Muslim Judicial Council (MJC) and the Al Quds Foundation launched the humanitarian initiative last month to raise much needed funds for the war stricken Gaza population.

“Alhamdullilah, it’s been amazing. Our community has really responded to the call,” said the masjid’s imam, Sheikh Riad Fataar.

More than 1800 Palestinians have been killed in the latest Israeli military assault and infrastructure has been severely damaged. The lack of clean drinking water is one of the most daunting challenges for the people of Gaza today.

According to Fataar, the funds were collected by the mosque through donations in just one Jumuah prayer held two weeks ago. The mosque receives 2000 people on most Fridays for Jumuah.

“Every one has been affected by Gaza. The tears rolled down in the masjid when I spoke about what’s happening there. People responded and opened their hearts,” said the alim.

On Eid day, the mosque had raked in R86 780 but persevered in increasing this amount. Fataar said the donors were not only the musallees, but also residents and those who work in surrounding areas like Parow and Bellville.

In 2011, the masjid garnered over R41 000 for Gaza, which contributed to the total R350 000 distributed by the Africa1 Convoy to Palestinians in dire need.

Other initiatives which the masjid raised funds for include a blanket distribution for destitute residents in Delft and West Bank. Funding of R33 000 for humanitarian relief was also raised for the Syrian people. The majid also raised R46 360 for the Somali Outreach conducted in conjuction with the Africa 1 Aid convoy in 2011. VOC (Nailah Cornelissen)