Soaring food prices make Ramadhan tougher for many Muslims

As Muslims across the world begin the holy month of Ramadhan, many are struggling to observe the fast during difficult economic times.

The rising cost of food and essentials has made it harder for families to prepare suhoor (the pre-dawn meal before fasting) and iftar (the meal for breaking the fast), turning what should be a time of spiritual reflection and communal joy into a period of uncertainty for many.

At the famous Markiti Market in Mombasa County, shoppers have started stocking up for Ramadhan.

However, for many, buying food has become a daily challenge, with some relying on donations, community aid, and ultimately, God’s mercy to get by.

“For the past few years, Ramadhan has been different because of the tough economic times. I used to buy food in bulk before Ramadhan, but this year, I can only afford to buy what my family needs for the day—sometimes even less,” says Amina Mussa, a shopper at Markiti Market.

Many say that food prices have skyrocketed, and even dates have not been spared.

“We now buy dates used to break the fast at Sh200 per packet or tin, which used to cost only Sh100 or Sh50,” said Mawazo Omar, a trader at the market.

Aid

To help ease the burden, mosques, churches, charities, and well-wishers have stepped in, distributing food packages and organizing free iftar meals for the needy.

Organizations such as New Life Prayer Center, Jawn Community Trust, and Jaffer Foundation, among others, have launched feeding programs to ensure that families don’t go hungry during this sacred month.

“Ramadan is the month of giving, and we are encouraged to help the needy. Many struggle during this time, and we urge Muslim donors to continue giving generously but to do so with caution,” said Mohammed Ismael, chairperson of Jawn Community Trust.

The act of charity and kindness has extended beyond religious boundaries.

In many communities, Christian organizations and individuals are stepping in to support the less fortunate, providing food donations and assistance to those in need.

“Caring for the poor is a responsibility in all faiths,” says Ezekiel Odero from New Life Prayer Center.

“Ramadan is a time of giving, and it is beautiful to see people of different beliefs coming together to support the needy.”

Moon sighting

At the same time, this Ramadhan has begun with some division, as Muslims have started fasting on different days due to variations in moon sighting methods.

On Friday, Kenya's Chief Kadhi, Abdulhalim Hussein Athman, announced that fasting would begin on Sunday, noting that the moon was not sighted in Kenya.

While some began fasting today, others will start tomorrow, following different religious authorities and traditions.

“The differences arise because of ideological perspectives. Some communities rely on local moon sighting, while others follow global announcements. It is up to religious leaders to come together and agree on a unified approach to avoid such confusion,” said Sheikh Omar Buya.

Scholars emphasize that these differences are not new and should not cause division, noting that variations in moon sighting have existed for centuries.

Despite these challenges, the spirit of Ramadhan remains strong.

As the holiest month in the Islamic calendar, Ramadhan is not just a time for fasting but also a season of peace, reflection, and generosity. As Muslims around the world observe this sacred month, the spirit of giving becomes more evident, especially in efforts to help the less fortunate.