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Yaounde, Cameroon Africa( Cameroon News) – Cameroon Muslims today join their brethren the world over for the month-long Ramadan fast.

As laid down in the holy Koran (2:183-185), Ramadan fasting represents the fourth pillar of the Moslem faith. This is a period for fasting and self denial. It is to be practised by all adult faithfuls, from the crack of dawn to dusk.

It forbids eating, drinking, and smoking during the day, and is mandatory for all healthy adult believers, and will continue till August 29.

The commencement and ending of the fast is dependent on the sighting of the moon, as confirmed by a reliable observer before authority, of its sighting. The pronouncement of the fast is accordingly made.

The mood at the Briqueterie quarter in Yaounde yesterday was one of calm. Residents though fasting, continued to be immersed in their regular everyday jobs, and did not forget to do their bit of shopping for the late evening break.

For Fadimatou Chaïbou, a mother of two, nothing was different at home. She had set the ball rolling too, and was prepared for Ramadan. Her husband ready and well prepared with everything to see them through the fasting period, had already procured grocery.

Fadimatou added, “During the month of fasting, we pray a lot, read the Koran often, increase our works of charity, and reconcile with those who have problems with us so that Allah will answer our prayer.” Charity had to be given the pride of place .

In the Adamou family too, the story was no different, having already started on their garment purchases. Preparations were also afoot for the grand Ramadan spread. “We have not left out presents for our friends and relatives.

That is the sign of Ramadan,” he said. Assamahou Mbohou,another devout called Ramadan a period for chastity.