Eid al-Fitr set for Friday
Thursday, April 20, 2023
Mufti of Rwanda Sheikh Hitimana Saleh leads prayers in celebration of Eid

Celebrations of the Eid al-Fitr will be place on Friday, April 21 as the crescent moon has been sighted in Saudi Arabia.

Eid al-Fitr - which means 'festival of the breaking of the fast - is celebrated at the end of Ramadan, a month when many adult Muslims fast.

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A communique issued by the Rwanda Muslim Council (RMC) on Thursday, April 20, signed by Mufti Salim Hitimana informed Muslims about the development.

"RMC is glad to inform all Muslims and Rwandans in general that the Holiday of breaking the month-long Ramadhan fast will be tomorrow, Friday, April 21,” read the statement in part.

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"We take this opportunity to wish Muslims and all Rwandans a good Eid al-Fitr holiday,” it continued.

The national-level prayers to celebrate the day will be held at Kigali PELE Stadium, which is located in Nyamirambo. The event will commence at 6:30 am.

Traditionally, Eid al-Fitr begins at sunset on the night of the first sighting of the crescent moon.

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It is forbidden to fast on the Day of Eid, and a specific prayer is made on this day. In addition, as an obligatory act of charity, money is given to the poor and the needy on the day.

Muslims in Rwanda, like many of their counterparts around the world, began the fasting month of Ramadan on March 23.

Also known as "Lesser Eid," Eid al-Fitr was originated by the Islamic prophet Muhammad. According to certain traditions, these festivals were initiated in Medina after the migration of Muhammad from Mecca.