Ramadan kicks off following sighting of Crescent moon
During the month, Muslims are expected to fast if they are healthy and able to do so.
More than 1.8 billion Muslims worldwide began observing the holy month of Ramadhan today following the sighting of the crescent moon in Saudi Arabia.
Ramadan begins with the sighting of the crescent moon, marking the start of a month-long period of fasting, self-control, and spiritual reflection.
During the month, Muslims are expected to fast if they are healthy and able to do so.
Fasting is one of the five pillars of Islam and forms a core part of the religion.
During the period, the Muslim faithful will abstain from eating or drinking from sunrise until sunset.
The other pillars are the declaration of faith, prayer, giving charity and going on the Hajj pilgrimage. Muslims believe that through fasting they are able to strengthen their relationship with God. Time is spent participating in acts of worship, such as praying, reading the Quran and giving charity.
The month is observed annually during the ninth month of the Hijri, or Islamic lunar calendar.
In Nairobi, after yesterday prayers, leaders in various mosques appealed to Muslim faithful to help underprivileged families with essential food to ensure they observe the holy month with dignity.
The leaders noted that extending a helping hand and generosity to those in need will ensure thousands of families can enjoy meals throughout Ramadhan.
The holy period will end around the 30th of March with the celebratory days of Eid al Fitr estimated to start around the same time with a possible difference of a couple of days.
