Africa Muslims Agency’s Empower SA Initiative: Bringing Hope Across South Africa

As of 2023, approximately 18.2 million people in South Africa are living in extreme poverty, facing daunting challenges in accessing basic necessities and opportunities for advancement.

Acknowledging these persistent challenges facing thousands of South Africans, Africa Muslims Agency’s Empower SA campaign stands as one of its oldest initiatives. Under the Empower SA umbrella, the Winter Warmth campaign, AMA’s flagship endeavor, predates the formal organization of AMA from the 1980s, reflecting the founders’ early commitment. Partnering with over 250 community-based organizations, the campaign provides year-round aid. Our dedicated volunteer program operates weekly, offering support to South Africans from all backgrounds. Through this initiative, we provide hot meals to the vulnerable, distribute food hampers to struggling families, supply sanitary packs to support the health and dignity of women and girls, and distribute stationery to meet the educational needs of children. Fundraising events engage the community, while rehabilitation projects assist with community development, ensuring comprehensive support for those in need.

Winter Warmth Campaign: More than a Blanket

The Winter Warmth Campaign, integral to Empower SA, assumes heightened significance amidst plummeting temperatures across South Africa. In Cape Town, severe rain and flooding exacerbate hardships for families. Part of the campaign includes providing warm meals to those in need during the winter season. The initiative aims not only to provide physical warmth through blankets, scarves, hats, gloves, and socks but also to offer emotional comfort and hope in challenging times.

Hussain Choonara, AMA’s Regional Director, emphasizes that AMA’s Winter Warmth packs are more than just blankets and essentials—they provide warmth and much more. He illustrates this with the story of a woman who had to separate from her child because she did not have enough resources to keep her warm during the winter months in her shack, highlighting the profound impact such assistance can have on family unity. “For some,” Choonara states, “these packs are transformative. Imagine what a Winter Warmth pack could do? It allows people to come together and strengthens family bonds.”

Making a Difference in the Community

The impact of the Empower SA campaign is evident in the stories of those we help. Sumaya Dheler-Ismail, Core Volunteer Lead for Johannesburg, reflects on the initiative: “Volunteers have made a significant difference through winter warmth drives and a mural painting at the Aman School of Excellence in Finetown. We are grateful for everyone’s dedication and generosity.”

Aman School of Excellence: Investing in the Future

Education is a cornerstone of AMA’s mission to break cycles of poverty. Opened in January 2024 in Finetown, Johannesburg, the Aman School of Excellence serves Grades 1 to 3. The school features a library, computer room, and play area, providing an enriching environment for young learners.

A recent mural painting at the school offered community members an opportunity to leave their mark and learn more about this vital educational initiative. Hosted at the historic Al Furqaan Islamic Centre, which has supported the community for over 30 years, the school continues the Centre’s legacy of education and community support. AMA’s commitment to building schools, universities, and providing bursaries across South Africa and the world underscores our belief in education as the only sustainable means of breaking cycles of poverty.

Changing Lives and Building Futures

Africa Muslims Agency’s Empower SA initiative provides crucial aid and long-term opportunities for South Africans in need. Through continuous efforts and unwavering dedication, AMA is making a significant impact on the lives of those in need, providing not just immediate relief but also long-term opportunities for a better future. Donor support helps sustain and expand these vital efforts, bringing hope and change to many lives across the country.