The holy month of Ramadan has begun, marking a time of fasting and reflection for Muslims around the world. Observed this year starting March 1, 2025, this sacred period holds immense significance as it commemorates the first revelations of the Quran to Prophet Muhammad. The celebrations are taking place not only across the globe but are particularly eventful this week in Nairobi, Kenya, and Milan, Italy.
At 5:30 AM on the streets of Nairobi, attendees began trickling toward Banda Street, home to the historic Jamia Mosque. Founded by Syed Maulana Abdullah Shah and constructed between 1925 and 1933, the mosque stands as the cornerstone of Islamic prayer and community life for about 6 million Muslims living in Kenya. It’s the second-largest religion following Christianity, and the mosque serves as the main gathering point for Muslim communities.
Entering the mosque, Sheikh Jamaludin Osman Haji, its current imam, welcomed those present with, "Sei il benvenuto. Ramadan kareem," inviting every individual to partake fully in the coming month’s observations. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Nairobi, the ambiance felt particularly special, as people from different walks of life came together.
Despite the uncharacteristically warm Nairobi summer heating the air and the bustle of the Central Business District, where chaos reigns, the mood was serene. “Forse non sono ancora pronti,” speculated Mohammed, as the crowd’s attendance for morning prayers seemed sparse. Even so, anticipation swirled around the main prayer set to take place post-noon, at 1:15 PM, promising greater numbers gathered around the mosque's sacred heart.
Outside, volunteers prepared for the traditional iftar meal, which breaks the fast after sunset. A truck loaded with food, sweets, and fruits were unloaded, symbolizing the shared communal spirit of Ramadan. The Jamia Mosque, filled with worshippers, saw people navigate themselves through with grace, finding their places on the cool marble floors originally prepared for this special day.
Meanwhile, across the globe, the spirit of Ramadan was being observed within the San Siro quarter of Milan. Recognized for its cultural dynamism, the community witnessed significant interfaith activities just days before the holy month began. On February 27, preadolescents from the Beata Vergine Addolorata oratory visited the Casa della Cultura Musulmana, engaging in shared prayers with their Muslim peers, expressing collective hopes, including prayers for the health of Pope Francis.
Michele Ottonello, the educator spearheading the initiative, highlighted the event saying, "Volevamo fare qualcosa di simbolico per questo tempo molto importante per i nostri ragazzi, che per il 90% sono di fede musulmana." Their initiative aimed at finding common ground among youth—and it turned out to be more fulfilling than anticipated, as Ottonello recounted how the Muslim youths urged for combined prayers.
Every effort made to create dialogue and connection was warmly embraced by Imam Mahmoud. “Abbiamo chiuso in una maniera fraterna,” Ottonello noted, reflecting on how these moments encapsulate not just coexistence, but active collaboration and mutual respect. The San Siro oratory also has future events planned throughout the Ramadan period, including iftar dinners where Christians and Muslims can share meals and stories.
The next gathering will be on March 22, inviting families from both faiths to come together for community meals. Ottonello emphasizes, "San Siro conta 88 nazionalità censite: non le avremo tutte a tavola, ma ci avvicineremo." This occasion isn’t simply about breaking bread; it's about nurturing relationships, fostering new friendships, and solidifying promises of support across cultural divides.
Despite its challenges, the reality of interfaith cooperation stands strong, creating enriching experiences for adolescents coming together. “Abbiamo la responsabilità di offrire ai ragazzi un'alternativa alla strada,” Ottonello remarked, stressing the importance of community. He concluded on the notion of inclusion, compassion, and shared human experience prevailing against division.
Ramadan 2025 is, without doubt, one marked by unity across contrasting cultural realms, encapsulated beautifully by the events seen between Nairobi and Milan. Both cities exemplify how faith can be intertwined with community action, leading voices of youth toward harmony. It’s these collective experiences—founded on shared beliefs—that offer hope for future generations, transcending mere coexistence to build mutual respect and collaboration.