Masjidut Taqwa helps Uitenhage Community

By Naajidah Brown

On Sunday, 2 June 2024, severe rains caused devastating flooding in the community of Kariega (Uitenhage). This natural disaster posed immense challenges, washing away multiple homes and causing extensive damage to buildings, leaving residents in urgent need of evacuation.

By Monday, 3 June, the aftermath of the flooding was apparent. Shaykh Mukhtar described the environment as “sombre.” Reports from residents indicated that blocked canals and poorly maintained drains exacerbated the situation, as the drainage system could not handle the large amounts of rain.

When the team at Masjidut Taqwa learned of the urgent need for relief in Uitenhage, they swiftly opened their facilities as a drop-off location for donations. Under the coordination of Ardiela Savahl (chairperson the Masjidut Taqwa Ladies Committee), they quickly sorted through supplies and made regular deliveries to those in need. Cash donations quickly accumulated into the thousands. The initial appeal for blankets and canned food was met with an overwhelming response, with multiple deliveries being made each day.

As the days passed, the needs of the Uitenhage community changed, and the Masjidut Taqwa team adapted quickly to respond. The Kariega community notified the team that they were no longer accepting supplies, and in response, the Masjidut Taqwa trustees made a decision to allocate the remaining funds.

On Friday, 5 July, Shaykh Mukhtar announced the final distribution of funds: R10 000 to Nasruddin Uitenhage, R10 000 to Masjidul Haq, and the remaining balance, slightly over R10 000, to the coordinators in Kariega to assist families where needed.

We want to thank the community for their generous support and quick response, whether through cash donations or supplies. Your assistance was crucial in responding to this call for help. May Allah SWT bless all abundantly, Ameen.