Rabat – King Mohammed VI has directed the inauguration of 26 newly built, reconstructed, and restored mosques at the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan.
The Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs said in a statement that four new mosques were built, while 13 mosques were reconstructed and nine underwent renovation.
The ministry noted that the budget for the mosque projects reached MAD 160 million ($16.1 million). The 26 mosques have a total capacity of 14,836 worshippers.
With the holy month fast approaching, Muslims across the country are expected to flock to mosques for congregational prayers, especially Taraweeh, a prayer performed in the evening during Ramadan.
Morocco is expected to observe the first day of Ramadan on March 2, Ibrahim Akhyam, a member of the Islamic Moon Sighting Project, told Morocco World News.
On the 29th day of Shaaban, the month preceding Ramadan in the Islamic lunar calendar, moon sighting committees across Morocco will gather to determine whether the new crescent moon is visible.
Since the Islamic Hijri calendar follows the lunar cycle, months are either 29 or 30 days long, depending on when the new crescent moon is sighted. If the crescent is visible, the new month starts the following day.
Meanwhile, several other countries, including Saudi Arabia and other Gulf nations, are expected to observe the first day of Ramadan on March 1.
The holy month is a time of reflection, increased prayers, and good deeds. It is an opportunity for Muslims to get closer to Allah and engage in acts of charity.
