For those of us wondering where the money goes to that retailers pay for Halaal certification, it is important to know first who is in charge. This is Sheikh Riad Fataar Al-Azhari, the president of the Muslim Judicial Council (MJC) in South Africa, one of the certification bodies. He is also the Imaam (preacher) of Masjid Al-Khair in Weltevreden Park and Chairman of MJC Burial Administration. He got his education at Al-Azhar University in Cairo, Egypt and holds master's degrees from the International Peace College South Africa (IPSA). Two years ago he made controversial statements that led to public attention and backlash from organizations like the South African Jewish Board of Deputies and Chief Rabbi Warren Goldstein after declaring "I am Hamas, Cape Town is Hamas" during a rally. He defended his remarks as political and humanitarian advocacy for Palestinians rather than an incitement to violence, while receiving backing from local political figures including the Western Cape branch of the ANC as well as Al Jamah. It is important to understand the backlash. Many people.get radicalized at their mosques by their Imaams who preach or spread radical Islam. Remember the Thulsie twins from Cape Town wanted on a terrorist charge, they were radicalized at their mosque. Sheikh Riad Fataar Al-Azhari (and the Muslim Judicial Council) also works actively with the Gift of the Givers. They collaborate in public demonstrations, humanitarian fundraising, and political advocacy mostly for Palestine and Hamas. This is why it was so easy for the Palestinians that were snuck into the country to find a home in Cape Town and surrounds. It is equally sad because Cape Town has the highest gang death rates in the country predominantly amongst Coloureds and we never see this level.of advocacy. Hamas has been designated a terrorist organisation by United States, United Kingdom, Canada, the European Union, Australia and New Zealand. It doesn't believe in democracy because the last time there were elections in Gaza was in 2006 when they won elections. It is brutal on any opposition and it is in this same Gaza where there is a neighborhood called Al-Abeed (or Harat al-Abeed) which means the place of slaves where black people are permitted to reside. It is apartheid based on race except instead of the K-word you are called slave. Why? The Arab Slave trade that has been active since 7th century until now. So, knowing this, where do you think the Halaal money goes to? Take note that the overall industry valuation (total broader Halaal manufacturing, service, and retail sector) in South Africa is valued at approximately R45 billion. That money can't simply be for operational costs. As always follow the money.