A major conference of Islamic scholars and delegates has concluded in Takoradi, setting the stage for the 2026 Ramadan fasting period and issuing a series of strong resolutions on education, social justice, and national cohesion.
The 32nd Annual National Ramadan Conference, held from January 29th to 31st (Sha’ban 1447 AH), brought together religious leaders under the auspices of the National Chief Imam to deliberate on both the sacred calendar and pressing issues of national interest.
Ramadan 2026: When to Start the Fast
In a key decision for the Muslim community, a sub-committee appointed by the delegates announced the procedure for determining the first day of the holy month.
The moon sighting for Ramadan 1447 AH will commence on Wednesday, 18th February 2026, which will mark the 29th day of Sha’ban.
· If the new moon is sighted on the evening of the 18th, then Thursday, 19th February 2026, will officially be the first day of Ramadan.
· If the moon is not sighted, Wednesday the 18th will be considered the 30th day of Sha’ban, automatically making Friday, 20th February 2026, the first day of Ramadan.
The conference stated that the official announcement of the commencement of the fast will be made by the National Chief Imam, Sheikh Dr. Osmanu Nuhu Sharubutu, or his representative on national television, in consultation with stakeholders. The cutoff time for moon sighting reports has been set at 9:00 pm.
Key Resolutions on National Issues
Beyond the religious calendar, the conference served as a platform to address socio-economic challenges facing the nation, particularly the Muslim community and the youth.
- Call for Accessible STEM and TVET Education
Delegates urged the government to ensure that newly built STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) schools are sited in locations accessible to Muslim communities.
“The proximity of these schools situated in centralized locations would ensure accessibility and equity,” the communiqué stated. The conference described this as a vital step to tackle graduate unemployment and harness the power of modern technology for national development. - Urgent Action Needed on Drug Abuse
Describing drug abuse as a “canker” devastating the youth, the conference called for an immediate and holistic approach to combat the menace. It urged religious leaders, teachers, parents, and health professionals to collaborate. A key part of the strategy, they noted, is for citizens to assist the police by exposing and helping to arrest drug lords and street peddlers operating within communities. - Embracing Non-Interest Banking
The conference welcomed the Bank of Ghana’s initiative to introduce non-interest banking, viewing it as a significant opportunity for Muslims to access financial services aligned with Islamic principles. It encouraged Muslims to take advantage of alternative financing mechanisms like Musharaka (partnership) and Mudaraba (profit sharing), which the conference believes can help reduce income inequality and promote social justice. - Strengthening Religious Harmony
While commending the nation’s long history of religious tolerance under the leadership of the National Chief Imam, the conference called on the National Peace Council to intensify education on inter-faith harmony. Specifically, it urged the Council to engage heads of government-assisted senior high schools to ensure they understand and adhere to the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on religious practices in educational institutions. - Appreciation for Additional Eid-ul-Fitr Holiday
The conference expressed profound gratitude to President John Dramani Mahama for recognising the significance of Eid-ul-Fitr by declaring an additional public holiday.
“The extended holiday would foster unity, inclusivity, religious tolerance and provide Muslims with the opportunity to celebrate with families and loved ones,” the statement read. The National Chief Imam, Regional Chief Imams, and the Council of Zongo Chiefs jointly commended the government for this gesture promoting national unity.
Conclusion
The conference delegates reaffirmed their commitment to peace and national development, entrusting the National Chief Imam with the authority to formally announce the commencement of the 1447 AH Ramadan fast.
