The lasting tribute to Muslim architectural marvel in South Africa lies midway between Johannesburg and Durban. Situated in the Natal Midlands, with the dramatic Drakensberg mountain range alongside, the Ladysmith Soofie Masjid must have been a welcome relief for wary travellers casting their eyes on this splendid structure.

Dig deeper and history reveals itself. The masjid’s heritage dates back to 1895, when Hadrat Soofie Saheb (RA), whose genealogy may be traced to Sayyiduna Abu Bakr Siddique (RA), arrived in South Africa.

Hadrat Soofie Saheb’s (RA) mission to propagate Islam and spread the Chistia Silsila led to the first “Khanqah” (masjid, madressah/ orphanage/ infirmary/ guest house/ cemetery) being built in the Riverside area of Durban. His establishment of 11 masajid (mosques) spanning the eastern inland seaboard within 15 years is in itself a remarkable achievement. Every “Khanqah” was built on the banks of the local river.

In the late sixties, a builder-cum-architect embarked on a mission to renovate the old masjid to its present structure. Built by one individual’s personal vision of a lasting legacy to the tribute of the late Hadrat Soofie Saheb (RA), this masterpiece was conceived without the aid of drawing by the builder.

This landmark is synonymous with Ladysmith and a lasting monument to the great sacrificial endeavours of the late Hadrat Soofie Saheb (RA) in preserving the Islamic faith.

Indeed, it reminds us of our rich history, our heritage, and the legacy of our pioneers. Our spirits are lifted, and our hearts content when we behold such picturesque grandeur.