HUYE / GICUMBI — Hundreds of Muslim faithful, yesterday turned up in different parts of Huye and Gicumbi districts to celebrate the end of the Muslim fasting month of Ramadhan. “Allah Akbar, Allah Akbar (God is Great, God is Great),” is what highlighted Idd el-Fitr prayers. Presiding over the prayers at Huye stadium, Sheik Mustafa Hamdoun, urged Muslims to continue with kind gestures exhibited during fasting by sharing, helping the weak and needy, loving one another and staying united. “Let us learn to forgive all those who have wronged us in our homes and community. It is through this that we shall truly uphold the teachings of Allah (God),” said Sheik Mustafa. Sheik Mustafa reminded Muslims that Idd El-Fitr is also a time to be thankful to Allah for all the provisions that he makes to his people unconditionally. During the month of Ramadhan, every fit and able Muslim who has passed the age of puberty is expected to undergo mandatory fasting though there are some exceptions to the elderly, pregnant women and the sick. They are expected to give up on food, drinks, sexual intercourse, and smoking, just before the break of dawn till sunset. The month has also deeper meaning. For Ibrahim Nshimyimana, the month of Ramadhan seeks to keep alive the traditions of Islam. “Observing Ramadan is a duty bestowed upon us by those who have gone before us. It is also a time to get closer to Allah,” said Nshimyimana. For Abdallah Bizimana, the period teaches one to fear Allah. “It is around this time that we renew our commitment to do what Allah expects of us. We visit the sick and share with our neighbours,” said Bizimana, a resident of Save Sector. In a related story, the Provincial Governor Fidele Ndayisaba, congratulated area Muslims and urged them to continue with the good deeds. “I encourage them to be people of integrity in their daily lives and to embrace development activities,” said Governor Ndayisaba. The Governor was expected to host Muslims to a luncheon in Ngoma after Idd el- Fitr prayers. Meanwhile, at Gacurabwenge Primary School in Byumba town, Gicumbi district, over 2000 Muslims attended Idd prayers. The prayers were preceded by a ‘holly march’ through Byumba town to Gicumbi stadium. “This day marks the end of 29 days of fasting and each Muslim is required to provide material or financial assistance to poor members of the neighbourhood regardless of their religious believes,” said Fatma Uwera, a Muslim lady who participated in the holly walk. Similar celebrations took place in the neighbouring Sector of Rukomo, at Rukomo Mosque that attracted Muslim faithful from Mutete and Rutare Sectors. Ends
