The Gambia announced Friday April 24 as the first day of the holy month of Ramadan after the crescent was sighted on Thursday evening. 

The Supreme Islamic Council, the body task with overseeing all Islamic affairs in the country, made the announcement yesterday on QTV and GRTS respectively. 

Imam Momodou Lamin Touray, President of the Council said the information they have received is that the moon has been sighted in The Gambia as well as other Muslim countries including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UAE and Kuwait. 

“In the Gambia, there is an individual Sarjo Manjang of Rumba village near Jambajeli has also indicated that he and 10 others have all seen the moon,” Imam Touray said. 

This year’s Ramadan announcement comes in the midst of a coronavirus outbreak that threatens the tradition of communal feast and prayers. 

The pandemic has forced The Gambia government to order restrictions on travel, public gathering and communal prayers until May.