By Burnett Munthali

This year’s Eid ul-Fitr prayers will be held tomorrow, March 31, in Malawi.

This announcement has been confirmed by the Moon Sighting Committee, which is responsible for determining the official end of Ramadhan based on the sighting of the new moon.

Sheikh Dinala Chabulika, the spokesperson for the committee, made the official statement regarding the prayer arrangements.

Eid ul-Fitr marks the conclusion of the holy month of Ramadhan, a sacred period during which Muslims around the world observe fasting from dawn until dusk.

Fasting during Ramadhan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, serving as an act of worship, self-discipline, and spiritual reflection.

Muslims believe that through fasting, they attain greater closeness to Allah and develop a heightened sense of gratitude, compassion, and humility.

As the fasting period comes to an end, Eid ul-Fitr is celebrated as a day of joy, thanksgiving, and communal worship.

In Malawi, large congregational prayers will be held in various mosques and open grounds across the country to mark the occasion.

Muslims traditionally begin the day with a special prayer known as the Eid salah, followed by a sermon that highlights the significance of the day.

It is also customary for Muslims to give Zakat al-Fitr, a form of charity that ensures those in need can partake in the celebrations.

Eid ul-Fitr is not only a time for prayer but also a moment for families and communities to come together, share meals, and strengthen social bonds.

The festival serves as a reminder of the values of generosity, forgiveness, and unity that Islam upholds.

Sheikh Chabulika encouraged all Muslims to use the occasion to reflect on the lessons of Ramadhan and continue practicing righteousness beyond the fasting period.

As Malawian Muslims prepare to celebrate Eid ul-Fitr, the day is expected to be filled with prayers, feasts, and acts of kindness that embody the true spirit of the occasion.