Dawjee Launches Middle East Media Centre

 A new initiative aimed at meeting the challenge of presenting Islam in a positive light and explaining clearly what is happening in the Middle East, was recently launched by South African activist Abie Dawjee and Jordanian Dr Zakaria Al-Sheikh, in Amman, Jordan.

Situated in an upmarket area in the Jordanian capital, Dawjee, says Fact International boasts highly qualified media personnel working in sophisticated offices which are fully equipped with a range of the latest high tech audio-visual equipment.

“Muslims are well aware of the relentless propaganda campaign to disparage Islam and Muslims. Most of this negative stereotyping emanates from the western media and governments,” said Dawjee.  “This media centre is geared to serve the Muslim ummah, insha-Allah, and therefore it really belongs to all Muslims.”

Dawjee and Al-Sheikh are well-known for their educational Middle East tours, and last year instituted a special course with Jordan University in which South Africans could learn Arabic for a four month period. 

In addition to promoting these activities, Dawjee said Fact International would also train new journalists and hone the skills of those who are already in the profession.  A newspaper had also been launched and plans were in the pipeline for a fully equipped TV studio which will produce news and documentary items, as well as a satellite TV station which will broadcast in English and Arabic. “A research centre will also be established, as well as a fully equipped conference centre with full translation facilities, and a resource department for foreign journalists wishing to utilize recording and transmission equipment,” said Dawjee, adding that  Fact International had also launched a comprehensive website (www.factjo.com)

Dr Al-Sheikh – who has been operating a media office since 1996 -  invited all South Africans to visit Fact International.  “I invite you to visit the centre whenever you are in the Middle East to see for yourself the work being done here and also to think about how you could also be part of this very important and vital project.” 

Article by Fatima Asmal