As Rwanda’s Muslim community observes Ramadan, Sheikh Musa Sindayigaya, the Mufti of Rwanda, has called upon interfaith solidarity and inclusive charity, urging all Rwandans, regardless of religious affiliation to support those in need. ALSO READ: Rwandan Muslims urged to embrace empathy, self-discipline during Ramadan Speaking to The New Times, Sindayigaya said that acts of charity should not be limited to Muslims. He encouraged contributions in various forms, including financial donations, food, and clothing, particularly to the needy. One of the widely practiced traditions during Ramadan is Iftar, the meal to break the fast at sunset. The Mufti encouraged those willing to support fasting Muslims to contribute foodstuffs for Iftar. ALSO READ: Nearly 200 mosques to reopen Sindayigaya explained that moral encouragement is equally valuable. Non-Muslims, he said, can show solidarity by sending good wishes and motivational messages during Ramadan and Eid. “A simple message like ‘Have a blessed month of Ramadan’ or ‘We are with you’ goes a long way in fostering unity. Similarly, sending congratulatory messages during Eid strengthens social bonds,” he noted. However, Sheikh Sindayigaya clarified that certain religious obligations remain exclusive to Muslims. While non-Muslims may choose to fast to solidarity, he noted that fasting is a religious obligation specific to Muslims and not merely a gesture of support. “Fasting is like prayers in the mosque, it’s an act of worship that carries spiritual significance for Muslims,” he said. Addressing the social responsibilities of fasting, Sindayigaya said that Ramadan is a time for spiritual discipline and self-control. He warned against behaviors that could negatively impact those who are fasting, such as provoking arguments, engaging in insults, or testing their patience. “Ramadan is a time for self-discipline, teaching believers to manage their emotions and choose their words carefully. If provoked, the best response is to stay calm and remember the purpose of fasting,” he said. The Mufti added that lying is another practice that is strictly discouraged, both during and after Ramadan. He noted noting that Ramadan serves as a spiritual retreat, a time to strengthen values that should continue even after the fasting period ends. Comparing it to an athlete’s training camp, he noted, “Just as football teams train before matches, Ramadan prepares us to uphold these values in our daily lives.”
