The Boorhaanol Islam Movement is set to breathe new life into a centuries-old tradition with the launch of its Kufiyah (Fez) Making Project this Saturday, 24 January, at the Bo-Kaap Cultural Hub.
Abdul Muhaimin Bassier, chairperson of the movement and project coordinator, said the initiative is a deliberate effort to preserve the cultural heritage of Cape Muslims.
“A few weeks ago, Boeta Goosain Samsodien, a veteran fez craftsman from Sandvlei, approached Boorhaanol with a proposal to pass on his decades of expertise to the next generation,” Bassier explained.
“His business is the only fez-manufacturing operation in South Africa, with only two other countries, Morocco and Egypt, still producing these handcrafted fezzes. Due to age, he has been unable to practise his craft for the past three years, but Boorhaanol recognised the historical and cultural value of his offer.”
In response, the movement acquired Samsodien’s fez-making equipment and trained staff in the craft, ensuring that the skills and knowledge are preserved for future generations.
Bassier highlighted the fez’s significance in Cape Muslim history:
“Today, it is mainly worn by Malay choirs, the Habiba Brigade, and other groups around the country. But not long ago, the fez was everyday attire for Muslims, you could identify a Muslim by the red fez. There are many photographs showing people wearing fezzes to work.”
Bassier added that the project not only safeguards a fading craft but also strengthens the cultural identity of the community, linking present-day Cape Muslims to their rich historical legacy.
Please note that this event is closed to the public, as it is a media launch of the project. However, there are plans to invite members of the general public to future engagements.
Listen to the full interview below:
VOC News
Photo: Pexels
