The Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana (CIOG) said the month of Ramadan has been set aside as a time to reflect on challenges and to find the solution through prayers, charity and fasting.

It said that the crescent for Ramadan had been sighted and therefore fasting will commence today.

In a press release the CIOG said fasting and charity will allow believers to earn grace and mercy and it encourages Muslims to follow Allah’s instructions. It said too believers should settle disputes with relatives and neighbours and sympathize with widows, the elderly and needy. The CIOG said by rededicating their lives to prayers and righteous actions, Allah will give Muslims the strength and health to fast throughout the month of Ramadan.

The organization said it looked forward to the usual cooperation and understanding by the non-Muslim community towards Muslims observing the fast. It said that Muslims during the holy month will take an early meal at 3.45 am, break their fast around 6.08 pm and observe additional prayers during the night, concluding around 9 pm.