Ramadan 2025 in South Africa: Crescent Observers Gear Up for Moon Sighting to Mark the Holy Month

Update : Moon has not been sighted. Ramadan will begin Sunday 2 March 2025

As the Islamic month of Sha’ban draws to a close, Muslims across South Africa are preparing for the holiest month of the year—Ramadan 2025. This sacred period, observed by millions worldwide, is a time of fasting, prayer, and reflection. From dawn until sunset, Muslims abstain from food, drink, and other physical needs, using the month as an opportunity for spiritual renewal and increased devotion.

Moon Sighting: A Tradition of Faith

On Friday, 28 February 2025, Crescent Observers, known locally as maankykers, will gather at various locations across South Africa to scan the horizon for the first glimpse of the crescent moon. If sighted, Ramadan will officially begin after Maghrib (sunset) prayers.

Imam Yusuf Pandy, President of the Crescent Observers Society of South Africa, confirmed that teams will be stationed at key observation points, including Three Anchor Bay, Signal Hill, Bakoven, Gordon’s Bay, Stellenbosch, Johannesburg, Durban, and Port Elizabeth.

“Tonight, insha Allah (if God wills), we will announce whether the moon has been sighted or not,” said Imam Pandy. However, he noted that the chances of sighting the moon are slim due to its young age. “The moon is only about 16 hours old, and we have just 24 minutes to sight it. The last time we saw a moon this young was 50 years ago. But we will continue to fulfill our duty and follow the Sunnah.”

When Does Ramadan 2025 Begin?

The Islamic calendar is based on the lunar cycle, meaning Ramadan rotates by approximately ten days each year. In 2025, Ramadan is expected to commence on Friday, 28 February, or Saturday, 1 March, depending on the moon sighting.

Eid ul-Fitr 2025: Celebrating the End of Ramadan

Eid ul-Fitr, the festival marking the end of Ramadan, is likely to take place on the evening of Sunday, 30 March, or Monday, 31 March 2025, depending on the moon sighting. The last day of fasting ends at Maghrib, and Eid celebrations begin shortly after.

Ramadan Timetable 2025

The beginning of Ramadan will be confirmed upon the sighting of the new moon. Below are the anticipated Sehri (pre-dawn meal) and Iftar (meal to break the fast) timings for major South African cities:

Cape Town Ramadan Calendar 2025

Johannesburg Ramadan Calendar 2025

Durban Ramadan Calendar 2025

These timings are essential for Muslims to plan their daily routines, ensuring they can fulfill their spiritual obligations while balancing work and family life.

Spiritual Preparation for Ramadan

Ramadan is not just about abstaining from food and drink; it’s a time for self-discipline, charity, and deepening one’s connection with Allah. Many Muslims use this month to:

• Increase their recitation of the Quran
• Perform additional prayers, such as Taraweeh
• Give generously to those in need (Zakat and Sadaqah)
• Reflect on their actions and seek forgiveness

As South African Muslims eagerly await the sighting of the crescent moon, the anticipation for Ramadan 2025 is palpable. Whether you’re in Cape Town, Johannesburg, or Durban, this holy month offers a unique opportunity for spiritual growth and community bonding.

Stay tuned for updates on the moon sighting and official start date of Ramadan 2025. Insha Allah, may this Ramadan bring peace, blessings, and prosperity to all.

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