Eid Mubarak from everyone at ACT!

This week Muslims across the world celebrate Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan and a month of fasting. At ACT we are proud to recognise the cultural and religious diversity in the communities that we operate, which is why we would like to say Eid Mubarak to all of our Muslim supporters and we wish you a happy and blessed Eid.

In this blog we will highlight the importance of Eid in Africa as well as share stories from communities of different faiths who have had their lives transformed due to the positive work of ACT.

Eid al-Fitr in Africa

ACT operates in 8 African countries with many having significant Muslim populations. This includes Tanzania, Nigeria, and Burkina Faso where huge proportions of the country practise Islam. All of these countries have differing traditions and customs on how to mark the special occasion. In Nigeria for example, Eid al-Fitr is known as “sallah” and celebrations of community and family gatherings can go on for as long as 3 days. Across Africa, friends and family will come together to celebrate, break bread and exchange gifts. Schools will close and elders will organise parties that give neighbours and friends the opportunity to honour one of the most important dates in the Islamic calendar. Charity and generosity are also emphasised during Eid through Zakat al-Fatr, a donation to the needy encouraged to be given prior to the Eid prayer. This allows everyone to be involved in the celebrations.

It is this sense of community that underpins the values of ACT. Despite being a charity from a Christian background, we recognise that the people we serve are diverse. During Eid it is important that we stress the importance of unity in our societies.

New Beneficiaries from Ipaja, Nigeria

As mentioned, ACT is proud to help enrich communities, promote education and support disadvantaged fatherless children and orphans throughout the diverse populations of the countries that we serve. It is in this spirit we would like to introduce over 100 children from Ipaja in Nigeria who will now be receiving support from ACT. Ipaja is located in Alimosho, a local government area (LGA) in the north-west of Lagos state. Alimosho has the highest population density of all of Nigeria’s LGAs and a large Muslim community. Notably, many of the new beneficiaries are of an Islamic background, likely from the northern states of Nigeria and have migrated south towards the economic powerhouse of Lagos. The new children from Ipaja receiving support serves as a reminder of the mission of ACT to serve all faiths and backgrounds.

The beneficiaries will have their school costs covered by ACT, allowing them to pursue their education and therefore maximise their potential. This sponsorship also covers the cost of books, uniform and school meals, relieving pressure from their carers and equipping the child with the tools needed to break the cycle of poverty for their families.

We wish these new members of the ACT family a happy Eid and hope that with our support they can have a prosperous life and successful education.

ACT Director Kunle with beneficiaries in Ipaja, Nigeria

ACT recognises the importance of diversity and inclusivity. Please help us educate and enrich the lives of all those who need it. For just £15 a month you can support a disadvantaged child and give them the opportunity of an education, helping them to reach their potential and build a better future for themselves and their family. To find out more how you can donate please click here.

Eid Mubarak, we wish you a blessed and peaceful day.