The crescent moon has been sighted, and that means Eid al-Fitr is officially here in South Africa, but around the globe, not all Muslims are celebrating.
If you’re wondering why some countries celebrate on different days, it’s all about when the Shawwal crescent moon is spotted: different locations mean different timings. But for South Africa’s Muslim community, last night marked the end of Ramadan and the beginning of celebrations.
Eid al-Fitr falls on the first day of Shawwal, the month that follows Ramadan. To determine the start of Shawwal, religious authorities and moon-sighting committees around the world observe the sky after sunset on the 29th day of Ramadan. If the thin crescent (hilal) is visible, then Ramadan ends, and Eid is celebrated the next day. If it isn’t spotted, Ramadan continues for one more day, making it a 30-day month.
Eid al-Fitr, also known as the “Festival of Breaking the Fast,” is a time of joy after a month of fasting, prayer, and self-reflection. Here in South Africa, where we have a vibrant Muslim population, people mark the occasion with early morning prayers at mosques, gatherings with family and friends, and, of course, amazing food. Expect to see people dressed in their best outfits, enjoying special dishes, and giving to charity through Zakat al-Fitr to ensure everyone gets to celebrate. It’s a time of gratitude, connection, and generosity.
If you want to wish your Muslim friends and colleagues well today but aren’t sure what to say, it’s simple: “Eid Mubarak” (Blessed Eid) or “Eid Sa’id” (Happy Eid) are both great options. It’s a small but meaningful way to acknowledge the day and show respect.
But while the atmosphere here is festive, it’s hard to ignore the difficult realities facing many Muslims around the world right now.
Crackdown on pro-Palestinian student activists in the US
In the United States, pro-Palestinian student activists have faced increasing crackdowns. Reports indicate that several students and academics with ties to American universities have been detained or face deportation due to their involvement in pro-Palestinian demonstrations across University campuses last year. While these protests drew significant attention in 2024, the pressure has only intensified under the new Trump administration, with multiple foreign students now at risk of deportation or having their visas revoked.
Notably, Rumeysa Ozturk, a Turkish doctoral student at Tufts University and practising Muslim, was detained by US immigration authorities on allegations of supporting Hamas, though specific evidence has not been presented. A federal judge has temporarily halted her deportation to resolve jurisdictional issues.
Similarly, Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian-Syrian graduate and activist from Columbia University, as well as a practising Muslim, was arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents after organising anti-Israel protests and now faces deportation. These actions have sparked protests and legal challenges, with academic groups suing the Trump administration to stop the deportation of foreign students and scholars for their pro-Palestinian views.
A humanitarian crisis in Gaza
Meanwhile, in Gaza, where close to 99% of its citizens practice Islam, the situation is beyond devastating. Months of violence have left more than 50,000 people dead, including many children. Families have been displaced, homes reduced to rubble, and access to basic necessities like food, water, and medical care is severely limited.
For Palestinian families, Ramadan wasn’t a time of peace and community. It was another month of survival. And as Eid arrives, many will have little to celebrate.
“Palestinians are supposed to break their fast with a very nice meal [for Eid], but today they are unable to secure one meal – it’s devastating, the situation in Gaza,” according to Al Jazeera Journalist Hind Khoudary, reporting from Deir el-Balah in Palestine.
Here in South Africa, where there is strong historical and political support for the Palestinian cause, the situation weighs heavily on many hearts this Eid.
Celebration overshadowed by suffering
As South African Muslims celebrate with their loved ones, many will also be reflecting on the challenges faced by their fellow Muslims across the world. So, whether you’re celebrating or just offering good wishes, today is a good reminder of the importance of community, empathy, and standing in solidarity with those in need.
Eid Mubarak to all who are celebrating!
Emma is a freshly graduated Journalist from Stellenbosch University, who also holds an Honours in history. She joined the explain team, eager to provide thorough and truthful information and connect with her generation.
