

From Obligation to Opportunity: Unlocking Zakah and Waqf for Societal Transformation
Dates: 17–18 October 2025
Venue: Islamia Auditorium, Cape Town
Presented by: SANZAF & AWQAF SA
About the Conference
The International Zakah & Waqf Conference brings together global and local experts to explore the future of Islamic social finance — where Zakah and Waqf move beyond obligation to become engines of empowerment, sustainability, and social transformation.
Join scholars, policymakers, financiers, and development leaders as we discuss how Zakah and Waqf can be reimagined to uplift communities, enhance accountability, and inspire innovation across sectors.
Now CPD Accredited by SAIPA — Professional Accountants can earn recognised CPD hours through attendance.
Conference Programme Overview
Theme: Setting the Foundation — From Obligation to Opportunity
Venue: Islamia Auditorium | 08:00 – 16:00
Morning Session:
- Opening Ceremony
- Welcome Address: SANZAF & AWQAF SA Leadership
- Keynote: “Reframing Islamic Social Finance in the Modern Era”
- Session 1: Zakah for Development & Restoring Dignity
Exploring the role of Zakah in alleviating poverty and empowering communities.
Midday Panel Discussion:
- Legal Frameworks for Zakah & Waqf — navigating governance, Shariah compliance, and regulation.
Afternoon Session:
- Digital Tools, Fintech & Transparent Giving
Harnessing technology for efficient, accessible, and accountable Zakah and Waqf systems.
Evening:
Official Gala Dinner
Venue: Islamia Banquet Hall | 19:00
A formal networking event celebrating collaboration and innovation in Islamic Social Finance.
Theme: Innovation and Collaboration for Transformation
Venue: Islamia Auditorium | 08:00 – 16:00
Morning Session:
- Empowerment through Zakah & Waqf — strategies for sustainable socio-economic growth.
- Global Zakah Models & Impact Measurement — lessons from international best practices.
Panel Discussion:
- Inclusive Social Finance and Waqf Innovation — integrating modern models for community impact.
Afternoon Session:
- Cross-Sector Partnerships & Public-Private Collaboration
How NGOs, financial institutions, and government can unite for systemic change. - Closing Remarks & Resolutions
Charting the path forward for Zakah and Waqf in South Africa and beyond.
Guest Speakers
National & International Thought Leaders

Renowned scholar in Islamic economics and social finance. His work focuses on optimizing Zakah and Waqf institutions for development.

Assistant Professor at Zayed University, specialising in the role of Waqf and civil society in advancing social transformation across the Muslim world.

Senior Economist at IRTI, Islamic Development Bank Group. A leading researcher on global Islamic finance and sustainable development.

Professor at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, researching social entrepreneurship, corporate responsibility, and innovation in emerging markets.

Shariah advisor and scholar, with deep expertise in Islamic jurisprudence and ethical finance.

Islamic finance expert with extensive experience in South Africa’s financial and faith-based development sectors.

CEO of SANZAF. Advocate for social transformation through Zakah and community development.

CEO of AWQAF SA. Specialist in building sustainable endowment models to uplift and empower communities.

Educator and community leader focusing on faith-based empowerment and social responsibility.

Scholar and community leader advancing Islamic financial inclusion.

Development specialist focusing on women’s empowerment and ethical giving.

Ameer of Winterveldt Islamic Development Forum, promoting grassroots leadership and Waqf-driven development.
Why Attend
- Earn CPD points accredited by SAIPA
- Engage with global experts and thought leaders
- Build partnerships across Islamic finance, NGOs, and academia
- Gain insights into data-driven, impactful Zakah and Waqf models
- Network at the exclusive Gala Dinner
Reserve your seat today on Quicket
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