25 May 2017 | 04:50 AM UTC
Somalia: Ramadan to begin May 26-27
Muslims in Somalia will begin celebrating Ramadan May 26-27; expect reduced business hours as well as tight security measures
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.
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.
Somalia is a majority Sunni Muslim country.
Ramadan this year falls as the country continues to face a heightened terrorist threat Since 2006, Somalia has been challenged by the emergence of the terrorist group Al-Shabaab, founded in response to Ethiopian military operations against Islamist groups. Al-Shabaab, an official affiliate of al-Qa'ida, is more likely to attempt acts of terrorism and militancy in Somalia during the Ramadan period. The group has not yet issued a Ramadan-specific threat for 2017, but did so in 2015.
Advice
Individuals in Somalia 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.
Due to extremely poor security conditions, Western governments generally advise their citizens against all travel to Somalia; professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.
