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US Embassy hosts Iftar dinner

Aug 26, 2010, 12:26 PM | Article By: Sainey M.K. Marenah

As part of its Ramadan gestures, the United States Embassy in Banjul on Tuesday hosted an Iftar dinner in  honour of the Muslim holy month for prominent Islamic scholars and Imams in the country, at the Coco Ocean Hotel and Resort in Kololi.

The well-attended dinner, which is being organised by the US diplomatic mission, has become a tradition for the embassy in Banjul.

Speaking at the Iftar dinner, Cindy Cregg charge d'affaires at the US Embassy in Banjul, underscored the importance of Ramadan to the Muslim world, noting that America as a nation has lots of Muslims that keep the fast in this holy month of Ramadan.

She described the gathering as vital, as it demonstrates how religiously tolerant Americans are.

President Obama, she said, attaches great importance to the holy month of Ramadan.

Cindy Cregg also stated that such gatherings would boost ties between America and other Muslim countries.

It has now become a tradition for the embassy to organise such gatherings, all geared towards cementing relationships with Muslims brothers and sisters, she announced.

Ms. Cregg commended the invitees for positively responding to their call, despite their busy schedules.

The embassy will host a similar fast breaking dinner in the North Bank Region, she announced.

Speaking on behalf of the Imams, Imam Baba Leigh of Kanifing Estate Mosque commended the Embassy for organising the Iftar dinner for Islamic scholars and Imams in the country.

Imam Leigh said peace could not be achieved if Muslims and the Christian community are engaged in religious conflict, noting that America is a big community with different religious denominations, which he said, is respected by all.

Imam Leigh said the efforts of the US Embassy in The Gambia in diverse areas is noticeable, noting that it is a step in the right direction for the Embassy to host an Iftar dinner in honour of the holy month of Ramadan.

During the dinner, the embassy donated prayer mats to the Imams and Islamic scholars present at the occasion.

The Iftar dinner was witnessed by several invitees, among them, the Imam Ratib of Banjul, Alhaji Cherno Mass Kah, and Imam Abdoulie Fatty of State House Mosque.