Muslims in Ghana and around the world have begun fasting today as the holy month of Ramadan officially commences.

The start of Ramadan follows the sighting of the crescent moon, in accordance with Islamic tradition.

The month marks the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is regarded as one of the holiest periods in Islam.

During Ramadan, Muslims observe a daily fast from dawn to sunset, abstaining from food, drink and other physical needs.

The fast is broken each evening with a meal known as Iftar, while a pre-dawn meal, Suhoor, is taken before the start of the day’s fast.

The period is devoted to prayer, reflection, charity and spiritual renewal.

Muslims also engage in increased recitation of the Qur’an and acts of kindness, with many mosques holding special nightly prayers known as Taraweeh.

In Ghana, Islamic leaders have urged the faithful to use the month to pray for peace, unity and national development.

They have also encouraged acts of generosity toward the less privileged, especially in the face of economic challenges.

Ramadan will last for 29 or 30 days, depending on the sighting of the moon, and will end with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr.

As the fasting begins, Muslims exchange greetings of “Ramadan Mubarak” and “Ramadan Kareem,” wishing one another a blessed and fruitful month.