By the grace of Almighty Allah Azza wa Jalla, SANHA
earned the accolade of being a finalist in the prestigious sixth Islamic
Finance Business Awards last week.
The
highly acclaimed award as one of three finalists was in the “Community
Corporate Social Investment” category and made SANHA
the only Halaal certifying body to be lauded by the judges.
It
was a fitting tribute to the foresight of our pious Ulama predecessors
who a decade and half ago anticipated the challenges that would face the
Ummah in a newly-liberated and democratic South Africa. They understood
that a new approach had to be adopted by the Muslims of South Africa with
the demise of Apartheid, the free movement of Muslims throughout South
Africa, the deregulation of the meat industry and imports with the repeal
of sanctions, drastic changes in shopping and eating habits and globalization.
They believed that it would require the harnessing of the collective effort
of Ulama, business and the public to create a body whose only purpose
and mission would be to serve the needs of Halaal.
SANHA
was born out of this noble initiative this month 15 years ago and from
the outset strived to be nationally represented, enjoy the support and
guidance of the broader Ulama, be above cultural, geographical and petty
politics, operate as a non-profit entity, refuse to serve vested business
interests and apply the highest Shar'iy standards.
Alhamdulillah!
The journey has been nothing short of miraculous and SANHA has established
itself as a transparent and credible authority, promoting professionalism
and excellence in the certification of Halaal products. It is a founder
member of the World Halal Council and has hosted and attended many international
conferences. It has accredited over 1400 businesses, established offices
in three major centres in South Africa and employs some 125 people. It
has many collaborative relationships and enjoys international recognition
from Muslim countries and the broader global community.
In
receiving any recognition, rewards and accolades, SANHA is deeply mindful
of the Quranic teaching as espoused in Surah Aal Imraan : Verse 26.
Say,
"Our Allah: possessor of all sovereignty.
You grant sovereignty to whomever You choose, You remove sovereignty from
whomever You choose. You grant dignity to whomever You choose, and commit
to humiliation whomever You choose. In Your hand is all goodness. You
are Omnipotent.”
SANHA
is humbled by this nomination and the many messages of goodwill and support
received. It takes this opportunity to extend its deep felt appreciation
to all of you, subscribers, certified plants, officials, management, staff,
friends and well wishers. It pledges to do its utmost in upholding your
expression of confidence in us and dedicates the award to Muslims everywhere.
Jazakumullah
Khayran!
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