Uwais Qarni shows it cares by providing community with free medical checkups

The Uwais Qarni Islamic Centre (UQIC) hosted its annual free medical health screening in collaboration with the Islamic Medical Association (IMA) and the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) on February 25.

Doctor Kamraan Khan, a committee member, Hafiz, and programme coordinator at UQIC, said they annually celebrate the birth of the beloved prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) by providing free medical checkups.

“His coming was a mercy to mankind, the genesis of love and peace, and it is only befitting to celebrate that love and peace through an initiative like this and promote general healthy living. This is all in the name of love, peace, and community building and that is what our centre stands for.

“We have noticed there is a strain on our South African health system, and as a result, many people’s health is often neglected until it is too late, and sometimes primary health care is no longer sufficient. As a result, prevention is preferable to cure, and it is always preferable to screen for and treat symptoms as early as possible. So, this event is our attempt to help in whatever small way we can.

“This is essentially an awareness for people to look up what they should know about their bodies so that they can take charge of their health because healthy people make a healthy society, which eventually leads to a healthy nation.”

Kamraan said he encourages community members to attend and support initiatives like this.

“Community building is important in our society because it brings people together in a positive way. It unites us in mutual love and mercy. We hope that the event had an impact and made them aware of a condition they were unaware of,” said Kamraan.

The public relations manager at UQIC, Mahnaaz Khan, said the centre was founded by Riaz Khan and established to promote unity among the community and people at large.

“We aim to serve people and humanity, and it is a centre open to one and all. Our current initiatives include providing small jobs for the rehab centre down the road.

“We have recently embarked on a new venture, our development centre and school for the underprivileged kids. We currently host nine kids aged three to six years of age. Furthermore, the centre hosts workshops for parents, children and teachers. The centre has become a place for family dynamics and is open to one and all.

“Our health day was a huge success. Over 800 people were served by volunteers and members of the IMA, with staff at the Uwais Qarni Centre providing breakfast and lunch to the community, coordinating the event, transport and giving out basic hygiene items.

“Great efforts were put into the overall success of the day, from donations and contributions by the Caring Women Forum and Planet Mercy, who provided us with the hygiene packs to distribute to the old age homes. Buses and transport were provided to and from the old age home to ensure that the needs of the old people were met to attend the event.“

Mahnaaz went on to say that Mayor Thapelo Amad was also at the event to support it. He participated in the UQIC community service project of the free medical day, alongside the Syrian Embassy, Cllr Rashida Landis from Ward 55, and other prominent figures.