As part of our annual commitment, every Ramadan we provide food packs to those most in need across South Africa. We prioritise vulnerable households living below the poverty line — especially the elderly, female-headed households and single-parent families — ensuring they can observe Ramadan with dignity and nourishment.
Our food packs contain staple items like rice, lentils, cooking oil, maize meal, dates, and oats, providing families with the essentials they need to sustain themselves throughout the blessed month.
Zakat Al-Fitr is an obligatory form of charity that every adult Muslim who is by the financial means must contribute on behalf of themselves and their dependants during the fasting month of Ramadan. While it is a relatively small amount, it can make a big difference in the lives of those who are struggling to make ends meet. By collecting Zakat Al-Fitr from those who are able to give, and distributing it among those who need it within communities across South Africa, IRSA serves as a conduit for hope and relief in the run-up to Eid festivities.
Qurbani means ‘sacrifice’. Every year, during the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah, Muslims around the world slaughter an animal – a goat, sheep, cow or camel – to reflect Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son, Ismail, for the sake of God. At least one third of the meat from the animal must go to poor or vulnerable people.
IRSA adopts high quality standards – including health, weight (meat yielded) and age – when selecting sacrificial animals, in order to provide the best possible Qurbani offerings. We make every effort to reach some of the most vulnerable communities, often located in particularly remote areas that have been impacted by the effects of climate change and other disasters. By collaborating with local suppliers to facilitate Qurbani, our initiatives also support local economies.
