The Embassy of Israel in Rwanda on Thursday, May 21, extended support of Rwf1 million to the Rwandan Muslim community in a gesture of solidarity ahead of the Eid al-Fitr celebrations.

The support was handed to the Mufti of Rwanda, Sheikh Salim Hitimana, by the Israeli envoy to Rwanda, Amb. Ron Adam, in the capital Kigali.

Eid al-Fitr celebrations are scheduled this weekend and the money is meant to buy essential food for the most vulnerable among the Muslim faithful.

The two officials discussed various programmes in place for the Muslim community in Rwanda and potential collaboration with the embassy to promote exchange between the two communities, according to a statement.

The Holy Month of Ramadan, during which Muslims around the world observe fasting, began on April 24.

"The Embassy is recognizant that, due to the coronavirus pandemic, Muslim Community has changed how they are celebrating Eid al-Fitr this year,” the statement reads in part.

"[The Embassy of Israel in Rwanda] is pleased to support Rwandan Muslim Community with One million Rwandan Francs to buy essential food for the families in need,” the statement adds.

Officials said the money will be disbursed to individual beneficiaries through the Mobile Money cashless platform, which is advisable in these times of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Religion is a major feature in Israel’s culture. 

Out of 9.2 million people living in Israel, 1.6 million are Muslims. 

Last year, 74.2 per cent of the people in Israel were Jewish, 17.8 per cent Muslim, 2.0 per cent Christian, and 1.6 per cent Druze. 

The remaining 4.4 per cent comprises of other faiths such as Samaritanism and Baha’ii, as well as people with no religious affiliation.