The founder of the District Six Museum Dr Anwah Nagia has died from a COVID-19 related illness at the age of 62. The anti-apartheid activist was an active member of his community, and will be sorely missed.
Nagia was a human rights activist, businessman and philanthropist. He was chairman of Element Investment Managers, Chairperson of the District Six Beneficiary and Redevelopment Trust as well as director of Kaaf Human Rights Centre and Palestine museum.
He was hospitalised a month ago and had been battling COVID-19 following a recent heart surgery.
In a statement, the Museum announced his passing and expressed their gratitude for all Nagia had done for the District Six community.
“Anwah united District Sixers under a community claim which would ensure that District Sixers returned wholesale, and not simply as individual claimants. This vision ensured that there would be a collective return to the land. The road ahead is still paved with many challenges. Go well, Anwah,” they wrote.
Condolences continue to pour in from various social media users:
Cape Town has lost another revolutionary Dr Anwah Nagia, a dedicated community activist, fighter in the struggle against apartheid, kind philanthropist, champion of the oppressed globally and stood firm against sectarianism. I am forever grateful for his support. Rest in peace pic.twitter.com/o13yqbAzEG
— Khalid Sayed MPL (@MKhalidSayed) September 28, 2020
We are saddened to hear of the passing of the founder of the Al Kaaf Human Rights Centre and Palestine Museum, Dr. Anwah Nagia. May Allah bless him for the good work he has done and may he be granted the highest abode in Jannah, Ameen. pic.twitter.com/KEkqtATnSi
— Awqaf South Africa (@awqafsa) September 28, 2020
The untimely passing of Dr Anwah Nagia is a moment of reflection for everyone who enjoyed the pleasure of his wisdom. He truly was a pragmatic leader whose consistency we could learn from. What a simplistic life he lived…@MYANC @ANCWestern_Cape
— Insaaf Isaacs (@Insaaf_Isaacs) September 28, 2020
The janaaza (funeral) will take place on Tuesday, September 29 immediately after Thuir salaah at the Zeenatul Islam Mosque in Muir Street. Strict COVID-19 protocols will be adhered to.
Also read: District Six Museum faces imminent closure, unless they get assistance.
Picture: Facebook / Muslim Judicial Council – SA
