Countdown to Ramadan

In two week's time Muslims in The Gambia will join the rest of the Islamic Ummah in observing the holy month of Ramadan.

However, one thing that is of concern during Ramadan is that businessmen tend to increase the prices of basic commodities, especially sugar.

Though businesses are run to make a profit, businesspeople should not use the month to exploit the poor and needy. Commodities should be made not only available, but affordable to the average Gambian.

Our other concern here is that, during this month, family heads engage in unnecessary expenditure, especially on food, most of which will end up in dustbins.

They cook more than what they can consume, and at the end of the day throw away leftovers whose costs are incalculable. This is bad, and people should try and put a stop to the wasteful practice.

To demand for more expenditure on expensive foodstuffs, just because friends or neighbours are doing so, is ridiculous!

People who engage in such often do not understand the economic condition of their families, and it is imperative for such people to know that "it's good to cut one's clothes according to one's cloth". People should always appreciate what they have and not to look at what others have.

Indeed, as Muslims, we should engage in good deeds during this month of Ramadan, and strive to maintain this forever, despite life's endless temptations. 

Ramadan is a month that can transform people, and make them more God-fearing in all their dealings. We should bear in mind that Allah is with us throughout and everywhere.

People should also be mindful of pick pockets, when they go out shopping, as thieves capitalize on the occasion, even though its Ramadan.

This period of month-long fasting and religious piety will be followed by the festive occasion of the Id el fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan.

We pray, in advance, that Allah will give us the strength, faith and means to go through Ramadan without difficulties, and live to witness the feast of Koriteh, a day for congregational prayers, for get-togethers, for visiting friends, family members and loved ones.

For while many use the occasion to supplicate for Allah's forgiveness, pray for each other, as well as the dead, some use the special day to forgive each other, as well renew their friendship.

"He deserves Paradise who makes his companions laugh."

Quran