Muslims prepare for end of fasting

Last minute preparations are underway across the country to mark the end of the fasting which is also the celebration of the feast of Ramadan.

In just a few days Muslims in Cameroon will end the 30-day fasting period 2016. According to some Muslims the exact date for the fasting will only be known with the appearance of the moon which is expected is expected either on July 4 or 5.

At the Briqueterie neigbourhood in Yaounde yesterday, June30, 2016 business was at its peak. During these last days of the fasting tailors are working hard to satisfy their customers.

In some of the tailoring workshops visited, customers especially women, were waiting anxiously to check if their dresses were ready.

One of the tailors, Sani Alassan said preparations are going on well. He said his team is working extremely hard to finish the pile of work before the feast to satisfy their clients.

He said during these remaining days they also sell already made dresses for people who did not have time and the means to buy materials before sowing.

They sell the three piece gandoura for children, the saro, jumper, monde arabe, wrapper and blouse for women in different designs and sizes etc. The prizes vary according to the quality and design.

Families are also busy preparing for the festivities according to their means. Mrs. Hadja Aissatou Dala said she has already bought the basic needs for the family such as dresses for the children and other items.

She said she will only buy food stuff on Monday since the feasting will end on Monday. She said her Sunday and Monday will be reserved for beauty saloons.

She explained that during those days the women will do the traditional make up notably Hausa nail polish, body designing and plaiting.

As the fasting gradually comes to an end, Muslim faithful intensify prayers and acts of charity as recommended by the holy book, the Koran.

Moulioum Rihana said during the last 10 days of the fasting there are two prayer sessions- from 7:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. and from midnight to 3:00 a.m.

After that, the fasting begins till 6:00 p.m. She also said before going to the mosque, all Muslims are obliged to offer sacrifice. It is also a time for reconciliation with others before even beginning with the fasting.