Muslims in Uganda will join the global Islamic community in observing the holy month of Ramadan starting Wednesday, February 18, 2026, following the official sighting of the crescent moon in the Middle East and locally.
Authorities in Saudi Arabia confirmed the sighting of the Ramadan 1447 crescent through national moon-sighting committees, marking the spiritual start of Islam’s holiest month for millions worldwide.
The first fast will begin at dawn on Wednesday, while mosques across the kingdom will commence Taraweeh (night) prayers on Tuesday evening.
This year, Ramadan coincides with the transition to spring in the Northern Hemisphere, bringing relatively moderate fasting hours compared to peak summer seasons.
Authorities in Mecca and Medina have finalized logistics to manage an expected surge of pilgrims performing Umrah during the sacred period.
In Uganda, the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) announced Tuesday evening that the crescent moon had been sighted, confirming the start of Ramadan 1447 locally.
The announcement was made at UMSC headquarters in Old Kampala.
Dr Sheikh Ziyad Swaleh Lubanga, Director of Sharia at UMSC, delivered the announcement on behalf of the Mufti of Uganda, Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, and extended greetings to Muslims across the country.
“We implore you to utilise this opportunity in devotion to the worship of Almighty God and strive to do good deeds in order to earn divine rewards,” Sheikh Lubanga said.
Ramadan is observed through fasting from dawn to sunset, increased prayer, charity, and acts of compassion.
Religious leaders have encouraged believers to deepen their devotion through regular mosque attendance,
Quranic study, and participation in religious learning sessions. Mosques nationwide are expected to host daily prayers and Taraweeh services, which attract large congregations throughout the month.
Sheikh Salim Bbosa appealed to security agencies to ensure adequate protection for worshippers attending night prayers, particularly during Taraweeh, when mosques experience increased attendance.
He emphasized the importance of safety and coordination to enable faithful Muslims to observe Ramadan in a secure environment.
The holy month will conclude with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of fasting. Religious leaders have urged believers to use the period to strengthen unity, promote charity, and foster peaceful coexistence within communities.
