The Central Equatoria State Islamic Council on Monday paid a visit to the Office of Mayor of Juba City Council to address issues concerning the two institutions.
Islamic Council Secretary General Salah Rajab Bunduki told the press that the visit aimed at coordinating activities between the two institutions, Bakhita Radio reported.He said the Muslim Council was thankful to the City Council for reorganizing Juba town and its market.
Mr Rajab added that they discussed the collection of Zikat or alms from Muslim traders since it represented one of the pillars of Islam to help the needy.
The Muslim leader said the Mayor responded positively and agreed to call a meeting of all Muslim businesspeople to look for a way forward.
Mayor Mohamed Al Haj Babala said the Muslim Council expressed readiness to cooperate with the City Council to address the social issues that affect the Town.
He added that the Council stressed the issue of Zikat that orders Muslim traders to pay some money to help the needy.
The Council said more than 90 percent of Muslim traders in Juba are foreigners and they could collect 25 million Pounds from zikat.
Mr Babala said the money collected from Muslim traders through almsgiving was to help Muslims and non-Muslims alike.
He added that the Muslim community will meet next Monday to iron out the issue of zikat collection amicably.