Niger: 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 Niger’s rainy season spans from June to September. 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.

Tight security measures are also to be expected due to a heightened terror threat in the region. 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 Niger is a secular country, the government recognizes the importance of Islam to its citizens; around 90 percent of the population is Muslim.

On a more general note, this period also marks a significant increase in the terrorist threat in predominately Muslim countries. The Islamist terrorist group Boko Haram is particularly active in the Lake Chad region.

Advice

Individuals in Niger are advised to avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public by day 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, many Western governments advise their citizens against travel to areas in the north and west of the country, as well as zones along the Nigerian border, due to a high risk of terrorist activity. Visitors throughout the country should be on guard when visiting sites deemed particularly likely to be targeted in an attack (government installations, prominent hotels, etc.) and report any suspicious objects or behavior to the authorities.