The South African Muslim Network proposes the formation of an Association of Masjid and Musallah Trustees: a national, nonpartisan network through which trustees can share what they know, and respond together when a community is threatened.
Why Now
Our communities face escalating threats. We have seen violent attacks on musallees, desecrations of musjids, and coordinated Islamophobic campaigns amplified through social media.
At present, when one mosque faces a threat, trustees in other communities may not be aware of it. There is no rapid alert system. Each community often responds in isolation, without the benefit of what others have already learned. Protocols, security resources and best practices are not shared nationally.
The Knowledge Already in the Room
Our trustees have a wealth of knowledge and experience:
- Rezoning and land issues
- Building plans
- Architecture and design
- Vendors
- Type and suitability of carpets
- Sound equipment
- Fundraising, finance and maintenance
- Security
This knowledge can be shared — especially where new projects are envisioned, and with communities that do not have this expertise and experience.
What the Association Would Do
The Association creates the infrastructure for collaboration. It is nonpartisan — not affiliated to any madhab, group or body — and it enables:
- Faster response to emerging threats
- Shared learning across communities
- Joint advocacy with law enforcement
- Coordinated resource deployment
- Trustees working together as a national network rather than in isolation
What It Is Not
The Association does not replace or compete with the imam, or with the ulema body a musjid may be affiliated to. It is not intended for matters of fiqh. That remains the expertise of the resident imam and the ulema.
It is a practical tool for trustee collaboration on security, safety and community protection. Nothing more, and nothing less.
How We Propose to Start
By creating a database and a WhatsApp group to get trustees talking to one another, and from there progressing towards a memorandum, a constituted association and office bearers. Participation is entirely voluntary. We propose two trustees from each institution.
Information Required
- Name of the musjid or musallah
- Chairman of the musjid board
- Physical address
- Email address and telephone numbers
- Proposed names and contact details of two trustees
If your institution is interested, please send this to:
Email: info@samnet.co.za
WhatsApp: 084 333 3979