A Symphony of Sakina: Using mosque design to facilitate community development in Mooiplaas
Date
2024-02
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg
Abstract
This research report studies Mooiplaas Informal Settlement in Pretoria, South Africa. The research first discusses the developmental challenges of this marginalised community and then investigates ways in which informal settlements can be developed. It explores the design and application of a Mosque complex, focusing on its potential to facilitate community development. Mooiplaas has a growing Muslim population, and a Mosque is a fundamental requirement to facilitate prayer. The Mosque is further investigated to understand its significance and functionality in community settings throughout history. Previous developmental initiatives undertaken have not reached full potential to holistically address the needs of the Muslim and non-Muslim communities in Mooiplaas. Thus, this research investigates ways the Mooiplaas community can enhance resilience and sustainability by applying the Mosque complex as a fundamental instrument for future development initiatives. The proposed Mosque can facilitate social and economic upliftment within the settlement by providing spiritual development and education and promoting social cohesion.
Description
This is a research report submitted to the Faculty of Engineering and The Built Environment, University of The Witwatersrand, Johannesburg in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree: Master of Architecture (Professional) at the University of the Witwatersrand in 2024.
Keywords
Mosque, Mooiplaas, Community Development, Symbolism, UCTD
Citation
Jaffer, Raeesah. (2024). A Symphony of Sakina: Using mosque design to facilitate community development in Mooiplaas. [Master's dissertation, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg]. WIReDSpace. https://hdl.handle.net/10539/38819