-at opening of National Ramadan Village

President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali has said that Ramadan transcends simple ritual, serving as a vital period for building a more conscious and inclusive society. He underscored the importance of individual spiritual reflection and social responsibility.

The president was at the time speaking at the opening of the National Ramadan Village on the lawns of the Muslim Youth Organisation (MYO) on Sunday evening.

He noted that a pillar of the government’s ‘One Guyana’ approach to governance is inclusivity, emphasising that this village embodies the level of inclusivity that exists in Guyana.

“We have a duty towards each other in the family of humanity, not only in the context of Islam. We have a duty towards each other as members of the family of humanity. We want us to be each other’s keeper,” the head of state said.

President Ali further noted that the concept of the Ramadan Village has garnered international interest for its ability to bring people of all backgrounds together, fostering a unique environment of quietude and reflection that is often missing in the modern world.

He reminded that Islam teaches us to accept responsibility for our actions, examine the effects and make lasting change.

In this regard, he briefly explored the Islamic theological focus on self-accountability pointing out the prohibition of “passing the blame” for one’s own wrongdoings.

He said that Islamic teachings view the act of blaming others as an injustice that compounds a minor fault into a major sin.

“In Islam, we have a lot of self responsibility. A lot is about our self consciousness. It is much bigger and larger than establishing our prayers,” he added.

Quoting the Quran, the President reminded the gathering to hold themselves to account before they are brought to account, asserting that true God-fearing behavior is found in how one applies the principles of Islam to every aspect of daily life, particularly in helping those in need.

“The Quran does not just identify the challenge. It leads you to the example. It leads you to the circumstances, and then allows the solution to the various problems,” he explained.

The president urged the gathering to cherish this period of reflection and fasting, and allow it to herald a season of change.

The National Ramadan Village will operate every Friday through Sunday from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. during Ramadan. This year, the village features an expanded range of booths, including a farmers’ market with fresh produce. The village promotes unity and understanding between Muslims and non-Muslims. 

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, observed by Muslims worldwide as a period of fasting, reflection, prayer and community.