Muslims across Rwanda have celebrated Edd al-Fitr this Friday, March 20, 2026 after observing the holy month of Ramadan.
The call to celebrate on Friday was announced by Muslim leaders in Rwanda following the failure to sight the new crescent moon on Wednesday evening as recommended under the Islamic teachings.
Edd-al Fitr climaxes the end of the fasting month of Ramadan and spiritual renewal, According to Imam Nsabimana Bassam at Gatoki Mosque in Kabarore Sector, Gatsibo District.
“Believers can fast for 30 days as per Islamic teachings, by abstaining from food or drink from dawn to sunset, as an act of devotion and obedience to Allah.” Nsabimana said.
The Imam urged believers to use the month to strengthen their faith, and to pray five times a day.
Speaking at Gatoki Mosque on Friday after prayers, Assumana Wineza a Muslim who had an interview with Rwanda Dispatch, Ramadan is the ninth month on the Islamic calendar, which is regarded as the holiest month in Islam as it commemorates the revelation of the Holy Qur’an to Prophet Muhammed.
“Ramadan is a time for self-discipline, and forgiveness, charity and drawing closer to Allah,” he added.
Over 200 worshipers attended the prayers and celebrations at Gatoki Mosque, including women and children. The day was announced as a public holiday according to the Rwandan Government.
After prayers, Muslims at Gatoki Mosque were treated to a feast of meals thanks to donations from nonprofit organizations Zakat Foundation of America in Partnership with Abdullah Kiromba Foundation.
The foundation also provided food packages to several families and organized Iftra to break the fasting around other mosques in Rubavu- Gisenyi, Musanze, Kigali, and Kamonyi.
“The Imam taught us about the importance of fasting, and if you have not started fasting, you intend to ask yourself if the 30 days will come to climax, but the truth is that if you endure the days become few, those who never fasted made a huge loss,” Assumana explained.
“And that is true, some are frightened that they can not fast for 30 days, but those who accept to do so, the days become few, Fasting is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, making it a fundamental act of worship for every able-bodied adults Muslims.” He added.
Across the country mosques hosted special night prayers known as Taraweeh, usually performed throughout the month.
In Kigali’s Nyamirambo Stadium, Sheikh Musa Sindayigaya, the Mufti of Rwanda, led the prayers and encouraged all Muslims in Rwanda to carry the lessons of Ramadan such as patience, devotion, and self-discipline into their everyday lives.
“Eid is a time of joy, celebration, and connection with loved ones. We dress up, enjoy traditional foods, and invite neighbors to share meals and prayers, giving thanks to Allah,” he said.
Coincidentally, Ramadan begins at the same time as Christians are observing Lent, a period of fast and prayer ahead of Easter.
