June 2026

Each year on 16 June, South Africans commemorate the courage, sacrifice and determination of the youth who stood up for justice during the 1976 Soweto Uprising and similar protests across the country. These young people fought for the right to choose their education and preserve their identity. Their actions became a defining moment in our nation’s history and a powerful reminder that young people possess the ability to shape the future of society. 

Every generation faces its own challenges. Today’s youth encounter a different set of pressures. Social media influences, misinformation, consumerism, moral uncertainty and the constant challenge of remaining faithful to Islamic principles in an increasingly complex world all have a significant impact on their choices and aspirations. 

For Muslim youth, this occasion also presents an opportunity to reflect on the important responsibility of practising a Halaal lifestyle with confidence and conviction in a diverse, democratic South Africa. The preservation of Halaal principles requires vigilance, knowledge and commitment. It extends beyond what is placed on our plates and encompasses business ethics, fair treatment of workers, environmental responsibility and community upliftment. 

The Qur’aan and Ahadeeth highlight the important role of young people as catalysts for positive change and guardians of Islamic values. Surah Al-Kahf, the eighteenth chapter of the Noble Qur’aan, recounts the story of young believers who stood firm against oppression and persecution, choosing sacrifice and migration to preserve their faith. 

As food manufacturing processes become increasingly sophisticated and global supply chains more complex, the need for credible Halaal assurance has never been greater. Future generations must understand not only what is Halaal, but also why Halaal consumption matters. Halaal and Haraam form the foundation of our daily lives as Muslims and remain among the most important aspects of practising our Deen. 

The youth of today have a vital role to play in preserving and advancing the message of Halaal and Haraam. For more than three decades, SANHA has partnered with Islamic educational institutions to supplement education in this specialised field. Through our Halaal and Haraam awareness programmes, we seek to empower young people with the knowledge and understanding required to navigate the many challenges they encounter in contemporary society. We believe that informed and committed youth can strengthen awareness of Halaal principles and safeguard themselves and their communities against influences that threaten to erode their spirituality. 

The future is not something that simply happens. It is something that each generation helps to build. 

Happy Youth Day to all the young people of South Africa. May your energy, faith and commitment contribute towards a stronger nation and a stronger Ummah. Aameen. 

The youth of 1976 fought for a better future. The youth of today must help preserve the values that will define it.