President to open Ramadan Village today
Head of State Irfaan Ali will launch the National Ramadan Village at 4:30 pm today, on the lawns of the Muslim Youth Organization (MYO) Woolford Avenue, Georgetown.
Stabroek News understands that the National Ramadan Village, which is the first of its kind, is being established through the collaborative efforts of the Central Islamic Organization of Guyana (CIOG), the Guyana Islamic Trust (GIT), the MYO, and the Government of Guyana
The village will be open on all weekends (Fridays Sundays) from 4 pm – 10 pm during the month of Ramadan
Notably, Laylat-ul-Qadr (Night of Power) which is generally observed on the 27th night of Ramadan will be conducted at the National Ramadan Village, according to the organizers of the inaugural initiative.
The MYO, GIT and CIO during a press conference last week said that the National Ramadan Village will present an open-air concept and offer a unique opportunity for all Guyanese to experience the spiritual ambience of Ramadan.
The partners of the activity also said in a release that it was intended for families to gather and share with others for the breaking of fast together. It will facilitate prayers, reflection and education during this sacred month.
In the evenings, presentations by learned Islamic scholars will be done on various topics premised on the virtues of the deen as well as the importance of women in society, and youth and women empowerment.
Maghreb and Isha Salat (evening and night prayers) along with Taraweeh (prayers specific to the month of Ramadan), will be offered and led by learned Imams.
According to the MYO, CIOG and GIT, there will be an attractive atmosphere for all, thereby allowing for the teachings of Ramadan and its virtues to transcend the Mosques.
“In this beautiful multifaceted society of ours, participating and sharing in each other’s culture, traditions and festivities are fixtures which allow for the further strengthening of bonds and enlightenment. The National Ramadan Village provides yet another opportunity to build upon the rich tradition,” the release pinpointed.
Complementing the prayers and spiritual reflection which are associated with Ramadan, the village also comprises several booths which will showcase various aspects of the teachings of Islam along with garments, literature, local and international cuisine including sweetmeats and children’s play area.
In addition to the provision of Iftar, the cuisine booths will provide options through the sale of what is expected to be on display.
To allow brothers and sisters within the Diaspora to participate, arrangements have also been made through the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) for a special Islamic Heritage Tour – Discovering Islamic Culture and Religion - on this historic occasion of the first National Ramadan Village in Guyana.
The release noted that Director of the GTA Kamrul Baksh is expected to elaborate on the intended purposes of the Islamic Heritage Tour.