The National Chief Imam, Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, has directed regional chief imams and Muslims across Ghana to look for the crescent of the new moon on Saturday, March 29, 2025. This observation is crucial as it marks the beginning of Shawal, also known as the 29th Ramadan of 2025.
According to a release from the Office of the National Chief Imam, "if the new moon is sighted in this country then 1st of Shawal shall be on Sunday, March 30, 2025, which will be the day to celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr in Ghana." However, should the moon not be sighted, Ramadan will extend to 30 days, concluding on Sunday, March 30, thus making the Eid-ul-Fitr celebration occur on Monday, March 31, 2025.
Islamic events are traditionally dictated by the lunar calendar, emphasizing the importance of moon sighting for initiating and concluding significant religious observances such as Ramadan. During this sacred month, Muslims make intentions to fast for either 29 or 30 days, with the lunar sighting determining the length of the fasting period. Observing the moon is not just a ritual; it embodies spiritual devotion and meticulous attention to religious practices.
In conjunction with these observations, the Minister of the Interior, Mohammed-Mubarak Muntaka, made an announcement on Saturday, March 22, 2025, confirming that Eid-ul-Fitr will be recognized as a statutory public holiday. The minister's press release specified that Eid-ul-Fitr would be observed either on Sunday, March 30, 2025, or Monday, March 31, 2025.
The announcement also mentioned that since March 30 falls on a Sunday, President John Mahama has issued an Executive Instrument (E.I.) to extend the holiday. "In accordance with Section 2 of the Public Holidays and Commemorative Days Act (Act 601), Monday, March 31, 2025, and Tuesday, April 1, 2025, have been declared additional public holidays and should be observed as such throughout the country," the statement read.
This extension of holidays serves to facilitate the celebration of Eid-ul-Fitr among Muslims and allows citizens ample time for festivities. The Minister urged all individuals to observe these days as public holidays nationwide, underscoring the cultural and religious reverence associated with Eid celebrations.
As these two significant announcements converge—one from the National Chief Imam regarding the moon sighting that will officially determine Eid-ul-Fitr's date, and the other from the Minister of the Interior reinforcing the holiday schedule—Muslims in Ghana are preparing for what could be a triumphant and festive end to Ramadan. Many are looking ahead to traditional celebrations, family gatherings, and community prayers marking the end of the fasting month.
During Eid-ul-Fitr, Muslims engage in prayers, enjoy festive meals, and partake in acts of charity, amongst other joyous celebrations. The observance emphasizes gratitude to Allah for the strength to complete Ramadan, and the festivities aim to reinforce community bonds while extending kindness to those in need.
Overall, this year's Eid-ul-Fitr promises to be a blend of traditional and communal experiences, centered around cultural practices that honor both the spiritual significance of the occasion and the practical aspects of the observance. As families gather with an eagerness to celebrate, the importance of the lunar sighting looms large on their minds—reminding them of the deep-rooted significance of faith and community in Ghana's Muslim population.
