Shawkat Ali Thokan, an Indian-origin man considered the pioneer of the Islamic movement in South Africa, died on Wednesday following a lengthy illness. He was 81.
Born in Maharashtra in India, Thokan was buried at Westpark Cemetery in Johannesburg on Thursday.
He emigrated to South Africa with his parents when he was 10.
Thokan was the first National Coordinator of the South African National Zakah Fund (SANZAF), a faith-based, educational and socio-welfare organization that helps the Muslim community.
The organization in almost five decades has assisted tens of thousands of students at all levels, as well as funding scores of budding entrepreneurs to become self-sufficient through training programs.
“Shawkat, as we fondly called him, was not only co-founder of Awqaf SA but father, mentor, guide, overseer, always positively encouraging and motivating the establishment of institutions within the Muslim community. He stood firmly behind the establishment of Awqaf SA together with a team of dedicated and passionate professionals, businessmen, brothers, and sisters,” says Awqaf CEO Zeinoul Abedien Cajee.
“At the outset, he provided the patronage and the platform through his Islamic Research Centre for the presentation of the blueprint for the most innovative and visionary institution that would impact not only on the lives of Muslims but also the broader community. And then also going beyond the borders of South Africa to many other countries. The seeds of waqf proliferation were planted deep…the trees never to be uprooted, still standing firm since 2000, still providing fruits, Alhamdulillah.”
Thokan was also instrumental in setting up the Islamic Medical Association, As Salaam institution for orphans, and in 2000 AWQAF SA, which has assisted all other communities in projects as diverse as boreholes in drought-stricken areas and cataract operations for the destitute.
“During his distinguished career, he was an ardent champion of those in need and worked tirelessly in creating unity and an environment for growth and development,” Sanzaf said in a statement.
“He was an inspiration to both young and old and will be fondly remembered by all of those lives he has touched,” it said.
