Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Mimi Mefo Info (Editor)
Published on 2024-03-11 07:54:13
Muslims in Cameroon are preparing for the commencement of Ramadan, which is set to begin on Tuesday, March 12. This year’s Ramadan comes at a challenging time for Muslims in the country, with ongoing armed conflict and rising prices of essential goods.
According to the National Moon Crescent Commission (NMCC), the lunar crescent, indicating the start of Ramadan, has not been sighted anywhere in Cameroon as of March 10. Therefore, the NMCC announced that the fasting will officially begin on Tuesday, March 12, 2024.
Moon sighting is a common practice before the start of Ramadan, traditionally done either with a telescope or by observing the skies with the naked eye. Fasting during Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam, alongside other important practices like daily prayers, giving charity, and performing the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca.
In Bamenda, the capital of the North West Region, Muslims are facing challenges in observing Ramadan due to the ongoing armed conflict and high prices of essential goods. Despite these difficulties, many Muslims see this holy month as a time for prayer and reflection.
During Ramadan, Muslims around the world focus on prayer, fasting, charity, and religious devotion. In Bamenda, where many Muslims may struggle to afford basic necessities during the fasting period, those who are more fortunate are planning to give back by performing acts of charity.
To prepare for Ramadan, mosques in the city have been holding special sessions and classes to educate and remind Muslims about the significance of the fasting period. During Ramadan, Muslims abstain from food and drinks during daylight hours, breaking their fast at sunset.
Fasting is obligatory for all adult Muslims, with certain exemptions for children, the elderly, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and individuals with health issues. Ramadan will culminate with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr.
This year, as Muslims in Cameroon observe Ramadan, their prayers and fasting serve as a reminder of hope and faith amidst the challenges of ongoing conflict and hardships.
Read the original article(French) on Mimi Mefo Info
