The Muslim community across the world and in the Western Cape, as well as many non-Muslims, will observe the sacred month of Ramadan in the weeks to come.

For Muslims, Ramadan is a sacred month wherein Almighty Allah gives humanity the opportunity to achieve endless bliss through purification and striving. It is a time of family and community unity and sharing, giving to the poor, fasting during daylight hours and deep reflection.

Ramadan has been an important part of the religious life of South Africa ever since the first Muslims arrived in the Western Cape over three hundred years ago. As one of the large faith communities in our democracy: the values, lessons and faith of Muslims has played an important role in the patterns, insights and routines of our emerging South African nation.

On behalf of the Western Cape Provincial Government I wish all our Muslim family, neighbours and friends a time of great blessing, wisdom, reaching out in friendship and re-commitment during this hallowed month.