religion 18 March 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Ugandan Muslims Set for Idd ul-Fitr Celebrations on Friday After Moon Sighting Fails
Uganda's Muslim community will mark the end of Ramadan with Idd ul-Fitr on Friday, March 20, 2026, as the new crescent moon was not sighted on Wednesday evening. Leaders have scheduled prayers at major mosques and called for prayers for global peace amid ongoing conflicts. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/muslims-to-celebrate-idd-ul-fitr-on-friday--5395678
Muslim leaders in Uganda have confirmed that Idd ul-Fitr, marking the conclusion of the holy month of Ramadan, will take place on Friday following the unsuccessful sighting of the new crescent moon on Wednesday evening, in line with Islamic traditions.
Dr. Sheikh Ziyad Swaleh Lubanga, Sharia Director at the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC), announced the date and noted that national prayers at Gaddafi Mosque will commence at 9am, led by Mufti Sheikh Ramadhan Mubajje. At Kibuli Mosque, under the parallel administration, prayers led by Dr. Abdul Hafiz Walusimbi are set for 10am.
When Idd falls on a Friday, Muslims performing morning Idd prayers may skip the Juma service but must observe the Zuhr prayer in the afternoon. This year’s fasting period aligns with last year’s 29-day duration, with celebrations shifting based on moon visibility—last year it was March 30.
Dr. Lubanga urged the faithful to pray for peace in conflict zones including DR Congo, Sudan, South Sudan, Palestine, Ukraine, and the Middle East, highlighting the challenges faced by Muslims amid wars during Ramadan.
Idd ul-Fitr ushers in Shawwal, a time for charity like Zakat-el-Fitr, family gatherings, feasting, and preparations for Hajj leading to Idd ul-Adha. Observers are advised to rise early, eat before prayers, bathe, dress festively, and avoid fasting on this joyous day.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)