Ramadan is almost here, and for many Muslims in Nelson Mandela Bay, that means preparing for a month of fasting, prayer, and togetherness. We spoke to local Muslim families about their unique Ramadan traditions, from meal prepping and charity planning to strengthening faith and embracing community spirit.
What is Ramadan?
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and a deeply spiritual time for Muslims worldwide. From dawn to sunset, fasting is observed—not just from food and drink, but also from negative habits, using the time to grow closer to Allah, give to those in need, and practice self-discipline. It’s a month of reflection, personal growth, and strengthening one’s connection with both faith and family.
Each evening, the fast is broken with Iftar, often beginning with dates and water before enjoying a meal with loved ones. The pre-dawn meal, Suhoor, helps sustain energy throughout the day. Beyond food, the true essence of Ramadan lies in community, late-night prayers, and acts of kindness.
When Does Ramadan Start?
In South Africa, Ramadan 2025 is expected to begin on the evening of Sunday, March 2nd, and end on Tuesday, April 1st, depending on the moon sighting. Across Nelson Mandela Bay, mosques will be filled with Taraweeh prayers, while families and friends will come together for Iftar gatherings and charitable efforts to support those in need.
Family Traditions in Nelson Mandela Bay
Every family has their own Ramadan traditions, blending cultural heritage with modern life. Some start by deep-cleaning their homes, while others focus on meal-prepping and stocking up on essentials. Many set spiritual goals, like reading more Quran or increasing acts of kindness. Ramadan is about slowing down, making time for what truly matters, and creating a warm, faith-filled environment at home.
We spoke to a few families in Nelson Mandela Bay about how they prepare for and celebrate Ramadan:
Laaiqah Panday: “Ramadan for me and my family is a month of giving. Food is a love language for all of us, so in preparation for the holy month, we make and trade some of our best savouries, soups, and sweet treats. Fasting is also a great equalizer; it makes you realize how much you have to give away, so charity forms a big part of the month. As a family, we plan our sadaqah before the month begins. The beauty of the month is that you don’t end it the same person you were at the start. You’re breaking old habits and building new, hopefully better ones. We always come together for Iftar on the 15th night of Ramadan.”
Rukeya Dollie: “Ramadan is a cherished month of spiritual renewal, discipline, and gratitude. It is a time of fasting, worship, and family bonding, where homes are filled with prayer, Quran recitation, and acts of generosity. Mornings begin with pre-dawn prayers and meals, while evenings are spent in devotion and community prayer. Despite the excitement of traditional foods like samoosas, the true essence of Ramadan lies in strengthening faith, recognizing our privileges, and embracing the blessings of unity and devotion.”
Bashira Dinie: “I’m not big on food prepping for Ramadan. For me, it’s exciting because I know millions of people around the world are making the same sacrifices as me. I try to remind myself to spiritually cleanse, abstain from bad habits, and make an effort to do good. My kids love that we eat together around the table every night and call it ‘the restaurant.’ I also realized that fasting is great for our bodies, allowing our organs, especially the liver and kidneys, to rest a bit.”
Siham Kirchner: “For practical preparation, we prepare meals, stock up on essentials, and plan easy meals in advance. We declutter our home for a peaceful environment and try to engage kids with stories and fun activities, teaching them what Ramadan is all about. As a family, we also make an effort to go to the masjid and pray together.”
Zaheerah Smith: “For us, Ramadan is all about family. We prioritize quality time together, teaching our kids about Islam and the significance of this blessed month. Breaking our fast as a family strengthens our bond, making each evening special. We also dedicate one night to inviting our non-Muslim friends to share in our traditions and experience the beauty of Ramadan with us. One of our favourite moments is the 15th night when the aunties make boeber—and now, I’ve become that aunty for my family and friends (though I secretly use an instant recipe, shhh!). Above all, we cherish the togetherness, the strengthened connections, and the opportunity to teach our boys about prayer and charity.”
Each family’s traditions may differ, but the essence of Ramadan remains the same—reflection, connection, and a renewed sense of faith.
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