By Emmanuel Gamson, GNA
Takoradi, Feb. 02, GNA – A communique issued at the end of the 32nd Annual National Ramadan Conference, says Muslims across the country will start this year’s Ramadan fasting on Thursday, February 19.
A statement signed by Alhaji Baba Dawud, a National Executive of the Hilal Committee, said the first day for the sighting of the moon shall begin on Wednesday, February 18, when Shaban shall be 29 days.
“If sighted, Thursday, 19th day of February 2026 shall be the first day of Ramadan, and if not, Thursday, 19th February shall be the 30th day of Shaban, then Friday, 20th day of February 2026 shall automatically be the first day of Ramadan 2026,” the statement said.
Touching on other issues, the statement expressed worry over the canker of drug abuse that was devastating the lives of the youth across the country.
It said the situation required an immediate and holistic approach by religious leaders, traditional authorities, teachers, parents and health professionals across the country, to ensure proper up bring of the youth so they could live better lives.
The Conference also called on the National Peace Council to endeavour to roll out education and advocacy programmes to educate and sensitise stakeholders, most importantly Heads of Government Assisted Senior High Schools in the Country, on the need to embrace and adhere to the memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on religious practices in Schools, the statement noted.
It asked the government to situate Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) schools closer to Muslim communities to ensure accessibility and equity among beneficiaries.
The statement noted that Muslims in Ghana were expecting significant opportunities from the introduction of non-interest banking as communicated by the Bank of Ghana.
This would provide an avenue for Muslims to access service that were in line with the dictates and beliefs of the Islamic Religion, it added.
Meanwhile, the Conference expressed appreciation to the government for instituting an additional holiday to celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr.
The statement said the extended holiday would foster unity, inclusivity, religious tolerance and provide Muslims with the opportunity to celebrate with their families and loved ones.
The three-day conference, held in Takoradi, was on the theme: “Our Earth, Our Future,” and brought together Imams, traditional and religious leaders, preachers, Associations, and students, among others from across the country.
GNA
Edited by Justina Hilda Paaga/ Christabel Addo