Auwal Mosque, Cape Town

The Auwal Mosque, sometimes spelled Awwal, Owal, or Owwal, is located in the Bo-Kaap area of Cape Town and is considered the oldest mosque in South Africa. Built in 1794 during the initial British presence in the Cape, it sits on land originally owned by Coridon van Ceylon, a freed Black Muslim slave. Coridon's daughter, Saartjie van de Kaap, inherited the land, which was previously used as a warehouse, and generously donated it for the construction of South Africa's inaugural mosque.

Originally erected in 1794, the mosque underwent renovations in 1907 and significant refurbishments in 1936. Notably, it was the first mosque in the region to hold public prayers and served as an early hub for Cape Muslim customs and the teaching of Arabic-Afrikaans. Its significance lies in its role as a beacon for the recognition of Islam and the freedom of worship for former slaves.

The initial imam appointed to the mosque was Qadi Abdussalam, fondly known as Tuan Guru, a prominent religious figure and former political detainee. During his imprisonment, he transcribed the entire Quran from memory, a copy of which is now showcased within the mosque. Tuan Guru also utilized the mosque as a madrassah, or religious school, where he educated both children and adults in Islamic teachings.

Following Tuan Guru's passing, Saartjie van de Kaap's husband, Achmad of Bengal, assumed the imamship. This role remained within his family until the passing of Gasan Achmat in 1980. Since then, numerous imams have succeeded, including notable figures like Sheikh Salih Abadi. Presently, Moulana Mugammad Carr and Sheikh Ismail Londt serve jointly as imams.

A disagreement over the succession of the imam led to a faction splitting from the congregation in 1807, forming Cape Town's second mosque, the Palm Tree Mosque on Long Street.