Ramadan, the ninth month of the Hijri calendar (a lunar calendar), is considered the holiest month in the Islamic faith. Through stringent fasting, discipline, introspection, and prayer, Muslims elevate their level of spiritual and physical submission to Allah, express their gratitude and seek his forgiveness.
It is believed that during this month, Allah revealed the holy Quran to Prophet Muhammad through the angel Gabriel. As a way of honoring this auspicious period of time, Muslims abstain from eating, drinking, smoking, any form of violence, anger, and also husband-wife intimacy from the breaking of dawn until the setting of the sun. Reading the Quran and making a charitable donation (Zakat-al-Fitr) are also encouraged.
So, as we prepare to welcome the holiest of months, here are the dates, calendar, and guide to spending Ramadan 2025 in Senegal.
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Ramadan dates and calendar 2025
The beginning of Ramadan is subject to the sighting of the moon, and hence, there is some degree of uncertainty involved. However, it can be estimated by Muslim scholars and authorities by observing the appearance and cycle of the moon.
Ramadan 2025 is expected to begin on 28 February 2025 and will end on 30 or 31 March 2025, corresponding to Ramadan 1446 in the Islamic calendar.
In some regions of Senegal, Muslims go out and watch the crescent shape of the moon to determine the beginning of the festival, while in others, they rely on their Imams.
Ramadan in Senegal
During Ramadan, the mosques are decorated beautifully with lights and flowers across Senegal. Religious classes are held almost daily. Muslims flock to nearby mosques for the Tarawih prayer and to read the holy scripture.
Religious songs are also typical of the Ramadan celebrations in Senegal, with several all-night events devoted to these songs being arranged. Many Senegalese even take special training to learn the art of singing the orotarios and performing the adhan in the distinctive African way.
Generosity of spirit
During Ramadan, Senegal gives special importance to grace, forgiveness and sharing. The Ndogou is a traditional community dinner served at the end of each day during this holy month, most popularly in and around the capital city of Dakar.
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Volunteers collect donations and use them to arrange for tea, café touba, bread, dates and the like. This food is then handed out freely to anyone and everyone in the vicinity who couldn’t reach home in time to break their fasts. In some areas, even non-Muslims are welcome to join the festivities and partake in the delicious Ndogou.
It is also customary to give alms to needy Muslims during this month as it is said to validate the month-long fasting. These alms, called Murum Koor, are traditionally given through essentials like rice and corn, but recently, money has also become acceptable. Moreover, following the practice of Suukaru koor, husbands are expected to gift their parents-in-law staples like food and clothes (or money). Even though these traditions are not prescribed by Islam, they are very true to the Senegalese culture.
Some things to keep in mind
Senegal is not that conservative anymore and accepts different belief systems. Those who aren’t fasting need not starve themselves but are urged to be considerate and not eat or drink in public. Be respectful towards those who are observing the fast and other traditions of Ramadan.
It is also advisable to dress modestly during Ramadan. Swimsuits and other summer outfits are fine and acceptable when in the hotel or by the pool, but when going shopping or visiting an attraction, please opt for modest and unassuming clothes.
