The new Mufti of Rwanda, Sheikh Salim Hitimana, has called on Muslims to visit and help the vulnerable members of society, exhibit discipline and humility during the holy month of fasting which started yesterday.

The holy month of Ramadhan started on Monday and it is a period during which all Muslims across the world renew their faith.

It is that time of the year on the Muslim calendar when all Muslims abstain from eating and drinking from dawn until sunset for 30 days as they reflect on their faith.

The period ends with Eid-al-fitr, when Muslims gather in different mosques to celebrate with special prayers, hold family get-togethers, among other feasts.

Fasting is one of the five pillars of Islam and it is an obligation for all adult Muslims. Female Muslims are not allowed to fast during their menstruation periods.

In his message, Mufti Hitimana called on Muslims to avoid any activity that goes against the sharia law of Islam.

‘‘It is not about denying oneself meals only but restraining from bad deeds and utterances against your neighbours,’’ Hitimana said.

He urged Muslims to love one another, embrace unity, help the needy people, and visit vulnerable families, among other activities that bring people closer to one another.

Hitimana urged peaceful co-existence among neighbours and fighting anything that can bring about disharmony in society.

Persons allowed to fast are those above 16 years of age. The Mufti also called on parents to start teaching their children about Ramadan at an early age.

He called on Muslims to conduct their prayers in peace and love, and be exemplary.

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