Africa Islamic Economic Foundation (AFRIEF) is very pleased to announce a new partnership with Saylor Academy, to provide flexible, affordable learning opportunities for AFRIIEF’s communities and those interested in joining its programs. As part of AFRIIEF’s mission to support human capital development across the African continent, learners will be able to earn certificates in key career skills (such as Decision-Making, Leadership, technology entrepreneurship and others) from Saylor Academy’s catalog of free courses.

AFRIIEF and Saylor Academy both recognize that learners, such as those served by AFRIIEF’s programs, lead increasingly busy and complex lives. They require flexible education options to balance skill development with work and family demands. This partnership allows students to develop skills that are in-demand now for free, and will help them become even more competitive once they enter the marketplace.

“This collaboration marks an exciting chapter for the Africa Islamic Economic Foundation (AFRIEF) as it will leverage on Saylor Academy’s rich experience, Global network and strength to propel Africa’s rapid economic and social development” states Baba Yunus Muhammad, President of AFRIEF. “We believe that the two organizations have complementary capabilities and we are very excited at the opportunity of combining these to create strong synergies in both career and talent development that will not only facilitate, but hasten our movement towards our goal of increased economic and career opportunities for Africans everywhere.”

“The partnership between AFRIEF and Saylor Academy provides access to affordable and flexible learning opportunities to support skill development across the African continent,” says Jeff Davidson, Executive Director of Saylor Academy. “AFRIEF’s human capital development efforts align well with Saylor’s mission of providing access to learners everywhere.” Read more>>

The Halal industry is much more than just food on your plate. It’s a way of life that encompasses the entire ecosystem, from food production to consumerism.  The Halal industry is a booming global market. The global Islamic economy comprises seven sectors — Islamic finance, Halal food, modest fashion, media and recreation, Muslim-friendly travel, pharmaceutical, and cosmetics.

It is estimated that the global Halal market will be increased by trillions in 2027, making it one of the fastest-growing industries in the world today. Recent years have seen a surge in global awareness of sustainability, ethical consumption, green growth, and digitization, enabling the Halal industry to flourish worldwide.

What is Halal?

The word ‘Halal’ comes from Arabic which means “allowed” or “permissible” according to Islamic law. Therefore, every Muslim must ensure that whatever they consume comes from a Halal source—not just the ingredients but also the entire production and handling process from start to finish (Zakaria, 2008). The definition given by Jabatan Kemajuan Islam Malaysia (JAKIM) in Trade Description Order 2011 covers products and services encompassing all the business operations like packaging, marketing, manufacturing, logistics, supply, maintaining premises, slaughtering, and so on (JAKIM, 2015). Read more>>

By our Special Correspondent

Islamic finance is a financial system based on principles derived from the teachings of Islam. It aims to provide an alternative to the traditional, interest-based financial system, which is considered haram (forbidden) in Islam. One of the main goals of Islamic finance is to promote economic development and reduce poverty in Muslim countries. This is achieved by investing in socially responsible and ethical projects that provide a tangible benefit to society, and by sharing profits and losses among investors.

However, despite its noble goals, Islamic finance has faced numerous challenges in its efforts to reduce poverty in Muslim countries. In this blog, we will examine the principles of Islamic finance and the challenges it has faced in promoting economic development and reducing poverty in Muslim countries. We will also look at case studies of successful Islamic finance initiatives and consider ways in which Islamic finance can be better utilized to achieve its goal of reducing poverty and promoting economic development in Muslim countries.

By Nani Septianie

Indonesia is a country rich in cultural diversity, where the diversity of Indonesian culture is not only culture from the aspect of dance and music, but Indonesia is also a country rich in creativity in the field of industrial art, especially industrial fashion through Muslim fashion combined with clothing patterns that introduce Indonesian culture. This can be proven by Indonesia being targeted as the center of the global halal industry through Muslim fashion products which are potential commodities for the international market (Susilawati, 2021, #). Where the patterns given on the clothes are an Indonesian art that not only has values ​​in appearance, but batik also has beauty on the spiritual side which through the patterns formed in local pattern cloth, it also has deep philosophical meaning through its decoration. Some of the factors that influence the formation of the Indonesian style include geographical location, nature, regional livelihoods, beliefs, and customs in an area, as well as the surrounding natural conditions including flora and fauna. Indonesia’s excellence in the art of the Muslim fashion industry through Indonesian patterns can be an opportunity for Indonesia to be maximized. According to the Indonesian Stock Exchange channel, the Vice President of Indonesia, Ma’ruf Amin at the Road to Jakarta Muslim Fashion Week event in 2022, explained that Indonesian Muslim fashion currently reflects the cultural diversity of the archipelago (Mufrida, 2022). Indonesian Muslim clothing has its own uniqueness in the patterns that are in Muslim clothing. Read more>>

The hijab, a head covering traditionally worn by Muslim women for religious purposes, has come a long way from being just a religious garment to a full-fledged fashion accessory. Over the years, the hijab has evolved into a niche market with its styles, designs, and materials, offering a range of options for those who wear it.

The hijab, also known as a veil, was initially worn as a symbol of modesty and religious devotion. It has long been an important part of Muslim culture, and its significance goes beyond just being a garment. For many Muslim women, wearing the hijab is a way to express their identity, and it has become an essential part of their everyday life.

However, with time, the hijab has evolved beyond just being a religious garment. It has become a fashion statement for many women, and designers have taken notice. Today, the hijab is no longer limited to just one style or design. There is a multitude of options available in various colors, materials, and styles, catering to different personal preferences and tastes. From silky scarves to lightweight cotton fabrics, the hijab has become a fashion accessory in its own right.

Designers have embraced the hijab and created collections that cater specifically to Muslim women. The hijab has become a central component in fashion shows, and designers are constantly pushing the boundaries with innovative designs and materials. Some have even introduced hijabs with intricate embellishments, such as beading, embroidery, and lace, making the hijab a statement piece.

The hijab has also gained popularity among non-Muslim women who have embraced the hijab as a fashion accessory. Celebrities, influencers, and fashion icons have worn the hijab, bringing it into the mainstream and encouraging more women to incorporate it into their style. Read more>>