In a landmark achievement for South Africa, Durban is set to host the prestigious World Halal Council (WHC) Silver Jubilee General Assembly and International Halal Conference. From the 21st to the 24th of October 2024, leading Halal Certifying Bodies (HCBs) from around the globe will converge at the Hilton Garden Inn Hotel, Umhlanga, to celebrate 25 years of promoting Halal integrity and to chart a course for the future of the global Halal industry.

This gathering marks a significant moment for both the local Halal industry and the global Halal ecosystem. But for many outside the certifying circles, the question arises: What exactly does the WHC do, and why is this event such a monumental occasion?

The Role and Impact of the World Halal Council

Since its inception in 1999, the WHC has been at the forefront of fostering cooperation and unity among HCBs across the world. As Muslims comprise close on to a third of the global population, representing over 1.8 billion people across 195 countries, the demand for Halal products has skyrocketed in the wake of globalization, technological advances, and the spread of Islamic values. The WHC was formed to ensure that Halal food standards are universally recognized and harmonized, protecting the religious and ethical principles of Muslim consumers.

Yet, the landscape of Halal certification is far from simple. Differences in interpretation on key issues such as stunning, mechanical slaughter, and the use of certain ingredients have made it essential for HCBs to work together. This collaboration ensures that Halal certification upholds not only religious principles but also the confidence of consumers worldwide.

The Journey to the WHC’s Formation

The foundation of the WHC can be traced back to the transformative 1990s. This was a decade that saw the world change dramatically: the end of the Cold War, the birth of the internet revolution, and a renewed global appreciation for Islamic values. These global shifts led to the realization that Muslim consumers needed a unified Halal standard they could trust, irrespective of their geographic location.

After years of discussion and collaboration among Halal certifiers worldwide, the WHC was officially established in Jakarta in 1999 and later registered as an international body in Manila, Philippines. Today, the WHC’s Secretariat Office is hosted in Malaysia, serving as a central point overseeing a diverse network of Halal certifiers across many nations. Through their tireless efforts, they work to ensure that the Halal products consumers rely on meet stringent, universally accepted standards.

Why South Africa?

South Africa has long been a significant player in the global Halal market. Its diverse Muslim population, coupled with the expertise of organizations like the South African National Halaal Authority (SANHA), has placed the country at the center of Halal certification in Africa. Since its founding in 1996, SANHA has aligned itself with international certifiers and government initiatives to promote the harmonization of Halal standards.

As a founding member of the WHC, SANHA has played a key role in the council’s mission. The choice of South Africa as the venue for the WHC Silver Jubilee is a testament to the nation’s leadership in the global Halal industry. 

Moulana Navlakhi, Theological Director of SANHA, shared his excitement about the upcoming event, stating: “The WHC’s Silver Jubilee in Durban is not just a celebration of the past 25 years, but a springboard into the future of Halal. It presents an opportunity for certifiers, manufacturers, and consumers alike to engage in meaningful dialogue and work towards a truly unified global Halal standard.”

An Event Not to Be Missed

The WHC Silver Jubilee General Assembly and International Halal Conference will feature an array of influential speakers and expert panels, focusing on topics that span from the intricacies of Halal certification to the future of Halal food production in an increasingly globalized world. 

Attendees will not only gain insights from the industry’s leading thinkers but also have the unique opportunity to network with representatives from across the world who are passionate about upholding the integrity of Halal standards. From discussions on innovations in Halal food production to exploring solutions to current certification challenges, this conference promises to be both enlightening and engaging.

Don’t miss this rare opportunity to connect with the global Halal community and contribute to shaping the future of Halal standards. 

Register today and be a part of this historic event! 

For more information on the event, speakers, and how to register, click here: SANHA International Halaal Conference (https://ihc.sanha.org.za/)