Cape Town – Muslims across South Africa are celebrating Eid-ul-Fitr on Monday following the sighting of the new moon in Musina and other parts of the country.
The announcement was made to worshippers in Cape Town, marking the end of Ramadan, a month of fasting, prayer, and reflection.
According to SABC News, while Eid is a time of joy, many worshippers remain mindful of the ongoing conflict in Gaza, expressing solidarity with Palestinians.
“We are going to enjoy Eid in South Africa, but the people in Palestine are not going to enjoy it the way we are going to enjoy it, but all that we can say is sabar and contentment in the hearts of those people in Gaza.”
“It’s wonderful to see how the people of South Africa come together, especially around the brothers and sisters of Islam come together and who bring us some sort of comfort and belonging in seeing that.”
Celebrations included early morning prayers, charitable acts such as feeding the needy, and family visits.
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Muslims across the country will celebrate Eid-al-Fitr today. The new moon was sighted last night in South Africa. pic.twitter.com/Oywe8HVtwq
Meanwhile, President Cyril Ramaphosa has extended his well wishes to Muslim community, according to a statementby the presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya.
“This year Eid-ul-Fitr is being observed during Human Rights Month – when we pay tribute to our constitutional order that guarantees rights and freedoms for all, including religious freedom.
“As we wish our Muslim compatriots well on this auspicious occasion, let us continue to be guided by the common values that unite us all, such as generosity, compassion and empathy,” Ramaphosa said.