Muslims in Cameroon join the rest of the world today to begin a month-long fasting period of fasting. Fasting during the month of Ramadan, as laid down in the holy Koran (2:183-185), is the fourth pillar of the faith. According to the Koran, this entire month is set aside for fasting and abstinence by all adult Muslims. Fasting begins at daybreak and ends at sunset. During the day, eating, drinking, and smoking are forbidden. According to the lunar calendar, fasting will last till August 29. Fasting is obligatory to all able-bodied Muslims who have reached the age of maturity. The beginning and the end of the fast

At the Briqueterie neighbourhood in Yaounde yesterday, the atmosphere was calm. People were busy, going about their daily chores and at the same time, shopping ahead of the fasting. At the home of Fadimatou Chaïbou, mother of two, everything is set for the kick-off of the fasting period. She said her husband has bought some food items such as rice, groundnuts, corn, oil, sugar, wheat and other basic necessities which will be consumed during the fasting period. She explained that some of the items will be given to the poor. "During the month of fasting, we pray a lot, read the Koran often, increase our works of charity, and reconcile with those who have problems with us so that Allah will answer our prayer," she said.

The story was similar with that of the Adamou family. Adamou said he has started preparing already for the feast for Ramadan. He said he has started buying clothes for his family. "We have not left out presents for our friends and relatives. That is the sign of Ramadan," he said. Assamahou Mbohou said Ramadan is a period of chastity and prayer and sacrifice. As a result, Muslim, families stay at home with their children and only go out for prayers. The fasting period also brings Muslims closer to Allah. Aïssatou Moussa, mother of five children said she is buying supplies for her family in order not to worry during the fasting. She said she has bought much this year because she wants to assist more needy people in her community than last year. "Ramadan is a period when we pray a lot, seek reconciliation with people so that Allah will also forgive us and pour his blessings on us," she said. Her prayer is that Allah will make the fasting period successful this year.

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