Chairmans Report

As I look back over the last twelve years, I see days and nights of planning, meetings commitments and ultimately success. When Al-Ansaar was founded in 1993, little did its members understand the mammoth task ahead of them? But, as the old saying goes “faith can move mountains” and, Alhumdullillah, Allah Ta’ala in all his mercy granted us great success in a few short years.

The establishment of the Mariam Bee Sultan Centre, at 222 Kenilworth Road, Overport, Durban provided the Al-Ansaar Foundation with a base for its activities. High on our list was the establishment of a Madrasah and a pre-school with an Islamic ethos. As time went on we managed to introduce an Islamic Tape and Bookshop, which has customers from all over the country, and an Islamic library, which has incorporated the Arabic Study Circle Library, which was donated to Al-Ansaar. Our most significant achievement in the last few years was Madrasah of its kind in the country. Based on this model, attempts are being made to introduce this facility in other provinces. With the assistance Madressah Nur (Pietermaritzburg), In June 2003 Al-Ansaar has begun a Madrasah for the Blind.

The Al-Ansaar Foundation undertakes many self-sustaining projects. Almost all our support and donars are from the local Muslim community. Our objectives, both past and present has been to create an informed, educated and more importantly a united Ummah. The tremendous response we receive during our annual Ramadaan broadcast and Annual Souk and Trade Fair, are proof that our objectives are being attained. Support and unity comes not only in monetary form but also by the hard work of volunteer, many of whom are students. If our organisation can inspire such a high level of commitment and unity in our youth, I have no doubt about our future as Muslims, Inshallah.

To sustain our activities, which have outgrown our existing premises, the Al-Ansaar Foundation has embarked on an expansion programme via the adoption of our building project. Several adjoining properties have been acquired in West Road, Overport. We also had the benefit of securing a long lease on the adjoining council land for parking.

The Final phase is the establishment of the Al-Ansaar Community and Cultural Centre. An all encompassing venue which will house all our various projects, provide facilities for seminars, lectures, and the many projects that the Al-Ansaar Foundation undertakes in its efforts to create interactive community activities. The estimated cost of the Centre is substantial. We appeal to our patrons to assist us in our endeavours to provide this facility for the community.

In conclusion, I thank Allah Ta’ala for the blessings he has bestowed upon us, To the Board of Directors, who despite our differing approaches never faltered in their commitment to achieving our ultimate goals, I pray for our continued friendship and success.

To our various benefactors and patrons who have provided us with funding to sustain our activities, May Allah Ta’ala shower his blessings on you for your generosity and grant you grater barakah.

To the Staff of Al-Ansaar whose perseverance and dedication through the years has ensured the success of our ventures, may you continue to prosper and may your sacrifices receive the ultimate reward.

To the Volunteers who so readily come to our assistance and who eventually become the back bone of efforts such as the day to day running of Radio Al-Ansaar and the Al-Ansaar Souk/Trade Fair may your selfless efforts earn you Sawaab-e-Jariyah.

In the words of the wise Nothing comes without toil, Nothing is given without cause, Try and try again, for in searching for the moon, The Heavens will surely Shower blessings of success and goodwill.