By Emmanuella Owusu, GNA
Ashaiman (Near Tema), Feb. 18, GNA – Some Muslim professionals have urged Ghanaian Muslims to use the 2026 Ramadan period for spiritual reflection, renewal, and ensure a deeper commitment to faith and compassion.
Ms Fatimatu Ibrahim Kpanti, a Muslim nurse, encouraged Muslims to draw closer to Allah during the holy month, describing Ramadan as a sacred season filled with faith that purified the soul.
In an interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA), Ms Kpanti explained that Ramadan began upon the confirmed sighting of the crescent moon.
She noted that the month of Ramadan was believed to be a period when Satan is restrained, allowing prayers and supplications to reach Allah, as taught by Prophet Muhammad.
She said before the start of fasting, Muslims perform “Taraweeh,” a special night prayer observed after the Isha prayer.
Through the Taraweeh prayers, Muslims seek forgiveness from Allah for their sins and shortcomings, Ms Kpanti said.
“It is a powerful way to cleanse the heart and soul during Ramadan,” she said, quoting the Prophet Muhammad as saying, “By Allah, I seek forgiveness from Allah and turn to Him in repentance more than 70 times a day.”
Mrs Baajatu Hudu Ahmed, a Muslim teacher at Sakafia Islamic School, said Ramadan was not only about abstaining from food and drink but also about deepening spiritual consciousness and empathy.
She explained that fasting enables Muslims to experience the hardship of those who face hunger daily, thereby strengthening compassion and the commitment to charity.
She added that individuals who are ill and unable to fast are exempted but are required to provide charity as compensation for missed fasts.
Mrs Ahmed urged Muslims to use the period to reflect on Allah’s blessings and express gratitude for daily provisions.
She further encouraged Muslims to reconnect with family and loved ones by sharing meals during the breaking of the fast, saying such gatherings help replenish strength for prayers and other spiritual activities.
She cautioned Muslims to let go of anger, resentment, and negative habits during the holy month and instead embrace forgiveness, unity, and righteousness.
Ramadan, observed by Muslims worldwide, is regarded as a month of fasting, prayer, charity, and spiritual growth.
GNA
Edited by Laudia Anyorkor Nunoo/ Christabel Addo