August 2025
In times past, society often harboured misgivings about women at the helm of a vehicle, and the phrase “women drivers” became a byword for jest or undue criticism. Such attitudes trace their roots to eras when transport, whether by horse-drawn carriage or early automobiles, was largely designed with men in mind. Today, while Islamic tradition honours the distinct and complementary roles of men and women, it also recognises that circumstances of necessity may arise wherein a woman takes to the driver’s seat.
Studies show no conclusive evidence that women are inferior drivers. In fact, in many countries, they are statistically safer. But let’s go beyond the literal. On this Women’s Day, SANHA salutes the Muslim woman as the true “driver” of the Halaal movement, steering homes, communities and businesses toward spiritual integrity and conscious consumption.
The First Line of Defence in the Home
From kitchens to community kitchens, the Muslim woman remains the first and most consistent influence in ensuring Halaal standards are upheld. As mothers, they nurture young hearts with a deep-rooted understanding of what is Halaal (permissible) and Haraam (forbidden), not only in food, but in all aspects of life. They instil the love for cleanliness, modesty, ethical behaviour, and gratitude, values that are inseparable from our Islamic dietary laws.
Educators Within and Beyond the Home
As educators, both formally and informally, Muslim women extend their impact beyond their immediate families. Many volunteer their time to share knowledge at madrasahs, community gatherings and online platforms. Their advice on ingredient scrutiny, label reading, and certification awareness helps shape a generation that is conscious of its consumption.
Our Helpline receives 18000 queries annually. The overwhelming majority of the enquiries are from women. The same pattern follows at community events and public interactions. They are most concerned with the well-being of their family’s spiritual as well as physical health.
Entrepreneurs Championing Halaal
The rise of home-based food businesses, i.e. bakeries, catering services, frozen meals, and more, has been fuelled by talented and determined women who ensure that every product that leaves their kitchens carries not only quality but the assurance of Halaal compliance. These entrepreneurs contribute significantly to the broader Halaal ecosystem, often turning passion into purpose and profit.
Our home industries are mostly the brainchild of enterprising women who have used their creativity and talents to supplement the income of the home. SANHA certifies about a hundred home industries and supports & promotes their endeavours.
Wives and Spiritual Anchors
As wives, they are the silent strength behind the spiritual atmosphere in homes. They help guide families in food purchases, uphold mealtime traditions and gently correct when there is uncertainty around a product or restaurant. Their influence is often subtle but deeply rooted and far-reaching.
Everyday Champions of Halaal
Whether it is advocating for Halaal meals at schools, questioning suspicious labels at the store, or encouraging others to adopt Halaal practices, Muslim women are at the frontline. Their vigilance and devotion ensure that values intrinsic to our faith are ingrained in their progeny.
A Tribute on Women’s Day and Every Day
To all the women, mothers, daughters, sisters, wives, teachers, entrepreneurs, and friends who serve as unwavering drivers of the Halaal initiative, we honour you. Your efforts may often go unspoken, but they are never unseen. You are the spiritual traffic officers in our homes, guiding hearts and plates toward purity, ethics, and Divine connection.
This Women’s Day, SANHA proudly acknowledges you, not only for what you do, but for who you are: drivers of value, virtue, and vision, Alhamdulillah!
