Deputy Kadir Acholi Muslim District, Sheikh Badi. A. Faras explaining what is observed with the fasting period of Ramadan

By Achomo Proscovia

Gulu City

Muslims faithful in Gulu City began the holy month of Ramadan on Monday 11 March, 2024 a period that includes a month of fasting and prayer. The period is considered one of the holiest Islamic months.

Sheikh Ismail Ali Omona, Imam Main Mosque Gulu City defines the meaning of Ramadhan saying it is a period Muslims deny themselves from eating and drinking during day time in the month of Ramadhan. “You start from morning until sunset”. He said, this means that you’re leaving food, drinks and your desires for the sake of God.

Sheikh Ogam from Jumia Mosque says in Islam, prayers is a conversation between human beings and the creator. “In the month of Ramadhan, prayers make our hearts calm, the heart gets tranquility and also the heart becomes free from the disease of doubt.”

According to Ogam, Muslims need to follow the procedures of fasting because there are some regulations required and that every Muslim should have one or two intentions for fasting.

Ramadan is a time when Muslims are encouraged to give to charity, strengthen their relationship with God, and show kindness and patience.
Deputy Kadir Acholi Muslim District, Sheikh Badi. A. Faras says Observance of Ramadhan is one of the five pillars of Islam. Muslims believe that it was during the holy month that the first verses of the Quran were revealed to Prophet Muhammad.

Sheikh mentions that Muslims are not allowed to have sexual intercourse with their spouses during the day in the holy month of Ramadhan, fornication, alcohol abuse and physical abuses are also forbidden. 

Meanwhile, People with chronic and mental illnesses, expectant mothers, breast feeding mothers, elderly, women in their menstruation period and children are not eligible to fast, however for children, they can only practice.

The Ramadan for 2024 started on Monday 11, March following the sighting of the moon over Mecca or respective countries. Lasting for 29 or 30 days, Ramadan will end around 9 April, with the triumphant days of Eid al-Fitr estimated to start around 10 April, with a possible difference of a couple of days.