Rabat– Ramadan will commence in South Africa on February 19, the Muslim Judicial Council (MJC) and Jamiatul Ulama South Africa have confirmed, following the sighting of the crescent moon.
The council confirmed that the sighting of the moon, signaling the start of the holy month, was successfully verified on Wednesday by members of the Crescent Observers Society, popularly known as the “maan kykers.”
“After confirmed reports of moonsighting, the UUCSA has determined that Shabaan 1447 ends with 29 days on Wed 18th Feb 2026. Consequently, in South Africa, 1st Ramadan 1447 will be on Thu 19th Feb 2026,” stated the council.
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is observed by Muslims worldwide through fasting from dawn to sunset, prayer, reflection, and charitable activities. The month typically lasts 29 to 30 days, depending on the lunar cycle.
South Africa is a Christian-majority country, with only about 2% of the country identifying as Muslim. In cities such as Cape Town, Durban, and Johannesburg Muslims celebrate Ramadan by blending religious traditions with local customs.
Daily fasts are traditionally broken with dates and prayers, often in mosques or during large community gatherings.
The Bo-Kaap area in Cape Town, known for its rich Islamic heritage, serves as a focal point for Ramadan celebrations. Special Iftar meals feature dishes like curries, biryanis, and sweet, creamy drinks such as boeber, reflecting a mix of Indonesian, Malaysian, and Indian culinary influences. These meals bring together families and communities to mark the daily breaking of the fast.
As the holy month begins, religious leaders and community organizations across South Africa are preparing events and initiatives to support spiritual reflection, charity, and communal harmony during Ramadan.
