Bolstering self-reliance among refugees and asylum-seekers in South Africa
The second phase of IRSA’s Assistance, Protection, Education and Self-reliance for Refugees and Asylum Seekers (APESRA) project was run in partnership with the United Nations Refugee Agency between November 2022 and April 2024. By facilitating access to education, skills development, language and vocational training, and community services, this project supported 124 refugees and asylum seekers’ self-reliance in the Western Cape.
Secure spaces for children
The El Hudaa Early Childhood Development Centre, situated in the agricultural town of Zuurbekom, in Gauteng, is a haven of safety and nurture for children from six months to 12 years old. In 2024, IRSApartnered with the Centre, constructing a wall to better safeguard children while on the property, and assisted with processes to register the Centre with the Department of Social Development.
Bridging the gap
Muslims are required to pay 2.5% of their wealth to charity. Islamic Relief South Africa serves as a channel through which this Zakat can be donated and redirected towards initiatives that uplift and strengthen under-resourced communities. Our Grant Application Process (GAP) helps disperse Zakat and unrestricted funds to families and communities in financial distress.