Ghana: Ramadan to begin May 26-27

Event

On May 26-27 (depending on the moon), Muslims will begin their month-long celebration of Ramadan. The end of the month of Ramadan, marked by the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations, will take place on June 25. Many businesses, restaurants, and government administrations are expected to operate on a reduced schedule during this holy month. Diplomatic missions may also operate on a similar schedule.

Transportation disruptions are to be anticipated during this period due to an increased number of travelers, especially in airports. Heavy traffic after sundown is to be anticipated as Muslims typically gather for festivities and to eat with family, especially over weekends. Furthermore, traffic accidents tend to increase during Ramadan (especially at dusk) due to a combination of hunger, dehydration, exhaustion, and impatience.

In addition, heavy rains are to expected during Ramadan as Ghana’s rainy season spans from late May to October. Power outages as well as water cuts are possible and can lead to poor food preservation (malfunctioning refrigerators and freezers) and shortages of drinking water. Traffic may be disrupted if flooding blocks major thoroughfares.

Finally, local authorities also typically observe an increase in incidents of petty crime during this period.

Context

Ramadan is a period of reflection and self-restraint and carries great significance within the Muslim calendar. Muslims traditionally observe daytime fasting and are called to practice increased devotion. Although Ghana is majority-Christian, approximately 17.6 percent of Ghanaians are Muslim.

Advice

Individuals in Ghana are advised to avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public by day in Muslim-majority areas during this period. Travelers are also advised to allow additional time for travel and to avoid any form of public demonstration or public gathering.

On a separate note, Individuals should exercise caution due to relatively high crime rates, particularly in Accra and other major cities (maintain a low profile, be particularly vigilant at night, be aware that criminals may be armed, etc.). Furthermore, individuals present in the country are advised to be particularly prudent in the northeastern regions where there are periodic outbreaks of violence and occasional curfews.