What Ramadan means to me: Reflections from Mali

As Muslims all around the world mark Ramadan 2026, our Communication and Media Coordinator in Mali, Moussa Goita, shares his reflections on what Ramadan means to him.

To me, Ramadan is a blessed month. It’s a special time of the year, a time to reflect on my spiritual growth and strive to draw closer to Allah (SWT). It’s a month of increased devotion, self-discipline, and compassion. It’s also a time to multiply good deeds, support those in need, and spread joy, even through something as simple as a smile.

As a father of 4 beautiful sons, this Ramadan I want to dedicate more time to my family. I hope to teach my children more about Islamic values, and lead taraweeh prayers with energy and devotion alongside them.

I also want to share with them our traditions and societal values, helping them grow closer as brothers, to learn to support and look out for one another as they grow up.

My favourite food for iftar is dates with a warm cup of kinkeliba, a traditional herbal tea from Mali. After the Maghrib prayer, I enjoy a delicious meat sauce served with fresh bread.

During Ramadan, people often wear long robes and traditional hats, which are usually reserved for Fridays. These outfits become the trend of the season, as they are considered modest and most appropriate for this blessed time.

Throughout the month, religious reminders fill the neighbourhoods, both during the day and at night. It is a season of spiritual awakening, a time dedicated to the remembrance of Allah (SWT), when people strive to refrain from sins, purify their hearts, strengthen their minds with good deeds, and increase their prayers.

In the evenings during Ramadan, small vendors line the roads selling light meals for iftar. The atmosphere becomes lively as people prepare to break their fast. The familiar aroma of kinkeliba, the traditional herbal tea, fills the air — a gentle reminder that it is almost time for iftar.

As a humanitarian worker, I take great pride in the work I do. During Ramadan, we implement a seasonal programme that provides food assistance to families in need, helping them observe the holy month with dignity and without constant worry about their next meal.

The smiles on their faces are my greatest reward. They ease the physical effort of working while fasting and remind me why this mission matters. I deeply value listening to people’s stories — hearing how they navigate daily challenges with resilience and faith. It nurtures my compassion and offers me profound lessons in patience, gratitude, and humanity.

On Eid, the entire family dresses in new and beautiful clothes and visits relatives and parents to make duas for the year ahead. It is a special day to grow closer to one another, forgive past misunderstandings, and celebrate with joy and gratitude.

We usually spend Eid day at my elder brother’s house. Our wives cook a delicious meal, our children play happily together, and our other brothers and sisters come over as well. We spend the day chatting, sharing delicious meals, and making sincere duas for one another.

I believe it’s a true blessing for any Muslim to witness and experience the month of Ramadan — and to spend it with loved ones is an even greater gift. Ramadan is a sacred season of mercy and renewal — a special time to elevate one’s spirituality, reflect on one’s life, and strive to become a better person for the future.

Providing iftar to hungry families is a priceless opportunity to earn multiplied rewards. This year, Islamic Relief is aiming to provide Ramadan packs to over 1.1 million people in 32 countries.

Donate today to help feed families in need around the world.