Accra, Ghana, June 5, 2019//-Muslims in Ghana and their colleagues throughout the world today celebrated the Eid ul-Fitr festival which marks the end of the fasting month of Ramadan.
The timing of Eid ul-Fitr, or “the festival of breaking the fast”, begins with the first sighting of the new moon, and it often varies from country to country.
Celebrations begin with a special early morning prayer in mosques and open-air spaces and later move on to feasts and festivals.
Ghana’s President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, in his Eid ul-Fitr message at the Independence Square congratulated “the Muslim Ummah of Ghana, and, by extension, the entire Muslim population of the world, for braving the pangs of hunger and thirst for an entire month”.
The President noted: “Besides the spiritual attainment of the month, you deserve commendation for the strict disciplinary code you have adhered t throughout the period”.
“I pray that Allah accepts our collective prayers, continues to shower His grace, mercies and peace on our nation, and make her great and strong”.
He wished all Muslims blissful and peaceful Eid ul-Fitr celebrations and admonished the youth to celebrate the festival with caution. “The nation needs you alive”, President Akufo-Addo urged them.
On his part the National Chief Imam, Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharabutu, urged Muslims at all times to submit to the will of Allah, and to rejoice in the spiritual success, which they had attained at the end of the 30-day fast.
The Chief Imam advised Muslims to let the virtues of the spiritual exercise they had undertaken to shine in full glory and continue to shine in the subsequent months ahead of them.
The festival traditionally lasts for three days, but depending on how it falls on the calendar, the parties and festivities could last much longer. For instance, if the three days fall mid-week, Muslims will likely still be celebrating over the weekend.
After a month of sacrifice, Eid ur-Fitr is a time of abundance – and not just abundant food. Gifts are often given, especially to children. These gifts of money, accessories, home goods, or flowers are called ‘Eid’.
By Oppong Baah, African Eye Report
