The 9th of August marks a significant day in South Africa’s history. A public holiday commemorating the courageous march of 20,000 women in 1956 against the apartheid regime’s discriminatory laws. This momentous occasion highlights the vital role women play in shaping society and fighting for equality.

In Islam, women’s rights and empowerment were ordained 1400 years ago, liberating them from oppression and discrimination to take their rightful place in society with dignity.

A most beautiful and apt simile of a woman is given in the Noble Qur’aan where Allah Almighty describes her as the garment and protector of her husband.

   “…They (your wives) are your garment and you are a garment for them…” (Chapter 2 – Verse 187)

A garment not only protects but also conceals, comforts, dignifies and embellishes, so too are wives to their husbands, and husbands to their wives.

Our Prophet (peace be upon him) taught us that, “Everything in this world is (temporary) enjoyment, however there is no better worldy enjoyment than a righteous wife.” (Muslim)

Muslim women hold a sacred responsibility in motherhood and as the queen of the household, she upholds the consumption of Halaal, a Divine injunction. As a Halaal certifying authority, through our Halaal Helpline, we witness firsthand the impact of women seeking knowledge on Halaal products and driving the growth of women-led home industries and entrepreneurship.

Our home industries are mostly the brainchild of enterprising housewives, who have used their creativity and talents to supplement the income of the home in these times of ever-rising costs of living. SANHA certifies more than a hundred home industries and also support & promote their endeavours.

A woman turns a house into a home, raises the future generation and forms the foundation of every successful society. We acknowledge the unsung heroes, the mothers, wives, daughters, and sisters,  who make a difference in our lives every day.

On this Women’s Day, we salute women who play a significant role in the upliftment of their families and the broader society. We are grateful for all you have done and continue to do!

Let’s honour them today and every day!