Following a survey during 1990, a group of concerned Muslims, united by a common goal, set out to create an Islamic environment in a “grey” area.“
A public meeting was held on the 7th February 1991 to ascertain interest and undaunted by the poor response (only thirty residents attended), the Rondebosch East Islamic Society was established. An interim Committee was then elected and mandated to go
forward
Since inception, we investigated the acquisition of suitable premises or vacant land to develop. Formal applications for purchasing the vacant land in the area was lodged with the City Council and attempts to purchase one of the many under-utilized churches in the area were futile. In 1995 Dr.U Adams converted one of his properties to a Jamaat Khana, which was completed and made available to the community in May 1996 for Salaah and Madrassah Classes. Shortly thereafter extensions were effected to accommodate the growing number of Musal-lees: the garage and lounge were converted into a Salaah area for ladies and an administration office was set up. After seeing the Musal-lees growing in the area, a Fatwah was received to perform Jumu-ah in the area. Being able to perform Taraweeg during the month of Ramadaan for the second year was a major feat. The brothers worked very hard getting the Jamaat Khana ready for Ramadaan. Lailatul Qadr, an important night in the Muslim calendar, was observed by having religious programs throughout the night. The number of Muslims in the area continued to grow and in February 1996, through the Qudrah of Almighty Allah, we were able to purchase the existing property with the adjacent house (cnr Burwood & Gordon Roads) as well as the vacant land opposite. The above were purchased and registered in a trust called “The Rondebosch East Islamic Community Trust” of which reputable community members are trustees. In 1999, the Jubilee Community Church complex became available and REIS considered the purchase of this complex a to be much more feasible rather than to invest in the development of the vacant plot. The acquisition of the church property had greater potential to cater for the fast growing community’s needs. Not only would it eliminate the parking problems, but the cost of building a Masjied on the vacant plot (1000 square meters) would be more that the acquisition of the new property (4.500 square meters) which already had a church, hall, offices, conference hall and ample parking. Following a huge fund-raising drive, the church property was purchased. Over the next few years the property had been developed ( and is still being developed ) into a bustling multi-purpose complex. This could not have been possible had it not been for the generosity from the people within our community as well as the dedication and commitment from all the members of the Rondebosch East Islamic Society – may Almighty Allah reward you all abundantly Inshallah.
