Somalia Prepares to Celebrate Eid al-Fitr
Preparations are underway in the capital, Mogadishu, ahead of the Eid al-Fitr which in some countries is celebrated on Monday while other nations observe it on Tuesday.
Many in Somalia use the joyous occasion to show their affection to their families and friends as the markets in the capital are bustling with shoppers who buy gifts for their loved ones, Press TV reports.
“Many people have returned from abroad. The capital’s population has increased and we look forward to making a good sale during this year’s Eid,” a Somali saleswoman told Press TV.
“Prices are high this year but we are still shopping ahead of the big day. Traders are presenting their latest designs of clothes and we want to look nice on the Eid holiday,” said a customer.
Under the Islamic law, the old month’s end is declared only after the new moon crescent is sighted.
Eid al-Fitr also marks the first day of the Islamic month of Shawwal that follows the fasting month of Ramadan.
The auspicious holiday commonly begins with communal prayers at major mosques or other prayer sites after a predetermined amount of money is set aside as alms.
Muslims mark the rest of the day by wearing new or neat clothes and joining family members, relatives and friends to eat and have a good time together.
Also on Eid al-Fitr, Muslims are encouraged to be especially generous and forget any grudges against friends and relatives.
There are an estimated 1.6 billion Muslims around the world, making up the majority of population in 49 countries.
