Awqaf (Mauritius) Foundation (AMF) and Its Objectives

By Iqbal Jhumka

The Awqaf (Mauritius) Foundation (AMF) is a Shariah-compliant institution established in November 2022 under the Foundations Act 2012 to preserve, protect, develop, and manage waqf assets in Mauritius. Its mission is to ensure that waqf properties and resources continue to generate lasting benefits for the Muslim community and the wider public.

Waqf is a form of perpetual Islamic charitable endowment in which the original asset is preserved while its benefits are dedicated to religious, educational, social, economic, or charitable purposes. AMF aims to modernise waqf management while maintaining its Islamic principles and respecting national legislation.

The Foundation focuses on several key areas, including waqf awareness and revival, protection of waqf properties, education, poverty relief, vocational training, healthcare, affordable housing, religious infrastructure, and community development. It also seeks to rehabilitate neglected waqf assets and ensure that properties are used according to the intentions of their donors.

AMF's governance framework includes a Foundation Council and committees responsible for finance and management, legal matters, projects, and investment. Planned structures include a Shariah Advisory Board, Executive Committee, and specialist advisory panels to strengthen professional management and Shariah compliance.

Looking ahead, AMF plans to explore digital waqf platforms, waqf-based investment funds, Islamic finance partnerships, renewable energy projects, and sustainable development initiatives. Through transparency, professional governance, strategic investment, and community-focused programmes, the Foundation seeks to contribute to the revival and sustainable development of waqf in Mauritius.