Ramaphosa Extends Wishes as Ramadan and Lent Overlap

President Cyril Ramaphosa has extended his best wishes to Christian and Muslim communities observing Lent and Ramadan, noting the rare overlap of the two sacred periods this year.

Ramaphosa said the convergence highlights shared values of introspection, discipline, generosity and care for the vulnerable.

While Christians observe 40 days of prayer and fasting during Lent, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset throughout Ramadan and are encouraged to support those in need.

Presidency spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said South Africans are reminded of the country’s constitutional protection of religious freedom and the importance of unity during significant spiritual seasons.

“At this time of great spiritual significance for our Christian and Muslim brethren, President Ramaphosa calls on all South Africans to rally in solidarity and hold fast to the unity that defines us as a people,” Magwenya said.

The Presidency emphasised that the simultaneous observance of Lent and Ramadan serves as a powerful reminder of the shared moral foundations across faith traditions in South Africa.

Photo: Presidency/X

Picture of Ragheema Mclean
Ragheema Mclean

VOC became the first Muslim radio station in South Africa when a special events license was granted to the station in Ramadan/January 1995. Subsequent temporary broadcast licenses were granted, permitting the station to broadcast for 24 hours.

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