Rwanda’s Mufti Urges Muslims to Seek God, Help the Needy, and Pray for the Nation During Ramadan

By The Inspirer

Rwanda’s Grand Mufti, Sheikh Sindayigaya Mussa, has called on Muslims to draw closer to God, support the less fortunate, and pray for the country and its leaders during the holy month of Ramadan.

Ramadan is a sacred month in Islam, marked by fasting, prayers, communal meals in the evening, and acts of charity. On March 1, 2024, Rwandan Muslims joined the global Islamic community in beginning the month-long fast, which lasts between 29 and 30 days, depending on the sighting of the moon.

For Muslims, this period is an opportunity to strengthen their faith and devotion through prayer, charitable deeds, and acts of kindness toward the needy.

Several worshippers at the Onatracom Mosque told Rwanda Broadcasting Agency (RBA) that they were prepared for Ramadan and eager to fulfill their religious duties.

Bakaka Mussa emphasized that it is the duty of every Muslim to obey God’s commandments, including fasting.

“It is our responsibility to submit to the Almighty in every way, to follow His laws, and to observe the fast as He has commanded, as guided by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him),” he said.

Usanase Djamilla stated that she would increase her prayers, wake up earlier than usual, and assist the less fortunate as much as possible.

Mbarushimana Fatuma described Ramadan as a time of sacrifice and spiritual growth, during which Muslims focus on reciting the Quran and avoiding prohibited acts.

“This is the month God speaks about in the Quran, and we are all commanded to fast. During this time, we are required to read God’s word extensively, pray more, and abstain from things He has forbidden, such as eating during the day. We dedicate ourselves to glorifying and seeking God’s guidance,” she explained.

Mufti Sheikh Sindayigaya Mussa reiterated that fasting is a divine obligation that teaches self-discipline and reverence for God. He also highlighted its importance in fostering empathy for the poor and encouraging acts of generosity.

“God instituted fasting so that we may develop greater reverence for Him. It trains individuals to sacrifice and obey His commandments. A person may have food and drink available, yet refrains from consuming them simply because God has decreed fasting. This instills discipline and respect for God’s will,” he stated.

He urged Muslims to use this holy period wisely, strengthening their connection with God and praying for lasting peace and security in Rwanda.

“These nightly prayers and good deeds are possible because we live in a peaceful and secure country. Therefore, we should pray for Rwanda and our leaders to continue enjoying stability and harmony,” he added.

Ramadan fasting is the fourth pillar of Islam and is obligatory for all healthy, adult Muslims. It holds special significance as a time of increased nightly prayers and spiritual devotion.

theinspirerpublications@gmail.com