Muslims in Seychelles mark the end of Ramadan |16 June 2018

The Muslim community in Seychelles yesterday joined fellow Muslims from around the world to celebrate Eid ul-Fitr.

Eid ul-Fitr is an important religious holiday celebrated by Muslims worldwide that marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting.

Very early in the morning large groups of Muslims from around the country converged on Stad Popiler for the 7am service of thanksgiving led by Imam Ibrahim Lebon.

“Today in the world we are living in with all its problems it is more than ever important for people to turn towards our Creator for righteousness,” Imam Lebon told the Islam faithful.

He added that after a month of fasting and reflection it is important for Muslims to come together to celebrate the end of Ramadan with joy and in an atmosphere of peace and happiness, to eat and drink and be merry, but he cautioned them to avoid wastage. 

Mohamed Lamin Kanté and Daouda Traoré, two Guinean nationals living in Seychelles for many years, were happy to share their thoughts on Eid ul-Fitr celebrations.

“It is a very happy occasion for us Muslims especially after the long month of fasting,” Mr Traoré said.

For Mr Kanté, it is the first time he has seen so many Muslims at an Eid ul-Fitr early morning service.

“The Muslim community has increased considerably and it is good to note the simplicity, the fervour, the tolerance, the great sense of humanity, the unity and the solidarity among all the faithful,” Mr Kanté remarked.

The Eid ul-Fitr celebrations ended with a grand dinner for all Muslims at both the Victoria and the Beaufond Lane mosques.