The Gambia Supreme Islamic Council has announced that Monday (11 March) is the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan, saying that the crescent moon has been sighted in the neighbouring countries.

Dr Mbye Kebba, who read the statement on behalf of the council’s president Sheikh Essa Foday Darboe, said: “The Gambia Supreme Islamic Council in close collaboration with the Imam Ratib of Banjul, Imam Cherno Alieu Mass Kah, the Fatwa and Moon Sighting Committee under the chairmanship of Dr Mbye Kebba Kah and the regional committees in the country, is hereby announcing that the crescent moon for Ramadan 1445 Hijra corresponding to 2024 has been sighted in the neighbouring countries and other Muslim countries.

“Thus, the council hereby declares Monday 11 March 2024 as the first day of the blessed day of Ramadan 2445 Hijra corresponding to 2024 in The Gambia.”

Reporting by Adama Makasuba