…President Ali says as scores of people attend

AS the Holy Month of Ramadan continues, hundreds of Muslim and non-Muslim Guyanese flocked the first-ever National Ramadan Village hosted on the lawns of the Muslim Youth Organisation of Guyana (MYO) on Woolford Avenue, Georgetown.

Present at the Ramadan Village on Friday was President Dr. Irfaan Ali who joined in prayers and the breaking of fast with other Muslims. In an invited comment to the Sunday Chronicle, President Ali said it serves as an opportunity for every Guyanese to experience what Ramadan is and the elegance of Ramadan.

The Head of State said that the village fosters community spirit and community involvement, while also bringing people together, ultimately allowing Guyanese to unite in a greater way.

He also noted that it also allows for families to find a safe space where they can enjoy Ramadan and share among themselves.
According to President Ali, “I think that makes it very unique and makes it very Guyanese; bringing out people in a culturally and religiously diverse society. So this allows that diversity to be shared, and the elements of the diversity to be understood.”

The Director of the Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana (CIOG), Sheik Moeen Ul-Hack recently said that the event is set to foster an understanding and promote Islamic heritage and cultural appreciation. The village is an open-air concept and offers a unique opportunity for Guyanese to experience the spiritual ambience of Ramadan.

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, observed by Muslims worldwide as a period of fasting, prayer, reflection and community. It is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and lasts for 29 to 30, from one sighting of the crescent moon to the next.

The Ramadan Village is also an opportunity for business owners to gather for networking purposes and welcoming the public in their many booths filled with fashion, books, food and services.
It should be noted that the village will be opened every weekend during Ramadan, from Friday to Sunday from 17:00 hours pm until 22:00 hours.