Sheikh Musa Sindayigaya, Mufti of Rwanda, has called on Muslims to remain consistent in faith and good acts even beyond Ramadan.
He said this as 27,000 Muslims gathered at Kigali Pele Stadium, on Friday, March 20, for Eid al-Fitr prayers, marking the end of the holy month.
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He also spoke about the lessons of patience, discipline, and compassion that Ramadan teaches.
"This month teaches us. It prepares us to live in the right way, to help the needy, and to stay steadfast in worship throughout the year. A believer who stops doing good after Ramadan misses the point entirely," the Mufti said.
The greatest loss, he said, is someone who prayed and helped the needy during Ramadan but then falls back into wrongdoing after the holy month.
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Eid al-Fitr, literally meaning the "festival of breaking the fast,” comes as both a celebration and a moment of reflection.
Faith leaders described the holy month as a form of spiritual training meant to shape everyday life.
"This is not just a day of celebration,” said Sheikh Bazatunga Yasini. "It is a continuation of what we have been building.”
For many, that message was personal.
Aisha Uwimana spoke of the quiet struggle behind the milestone.
"Fasting for 30 days is not easy,” she said. "When I finish, I thank Allah.”
She said the celebration would continue in her home, where she planned to host neighbors, friends and relatives. But even then, she insisted, the meaning of the day remains rooted in what was learned during Ramadan.
"It teaches me humility, compassion and helping others. I should not stop praying and become complacent,” she said.
Adjmalat Akeza described Ramadan as a time that restores inner calm and connection.
"It helps us draw closer to God and talk to Him,” she said, urging fellow Muslims to maintain that bond beyond the season.
She also called for openness, encouraging people of other faiths to understand the values behind the month.
For Suleiman Ndahimana, the gathering after Ramadan itself reflected a shared journey.
"We come together to thank Allah for the strength to finish the month,” he said. "It reminds us to live in unity and love.”