Ramadan: Ethiopian Muslims hold Grand Street Iftar

The sixth annual Nationwide Grand Street Iftar is held on Saturday in several major cities across Ethiopia, including the capital Addis Ababa, where thousands of Muslims gathered at the iconic Meskel Square to break their fast en masse in the spirit of the holy month of Ramadan.

Organized by the Ethiopian Islamic Affairs Supreme Council, the large-scale public event is held under the theme “Nejashi for Nation,” reflecting Ethiopia’s historic tradition of religious tolerance and social unity.

Ustaz Abubeker Ahmed, Head of the President’s Office at the Council, said the month of Ramadan offers an opportunity to strengthen solidarity and shared values among communities.

According to the organisers, the Grand Street Iftar has evolved into one of the country’s most prominent communal Ramadan observances, bringing together thousands of Muslims and members of other faiths for a shared evening meal to break the daily fast.

This year’s theme draws inspiration from the story of Ashama ibn Abjar, commonly known as Nejashi, the ancient ruler of the Kingdom of Aksum who occupies a unique place in Islamic history.

According to historical accounts, the Axumite king granted protection to the first followers of the Prophet Muhammad who fled persecution in Mecca in the 7th century.

The episode, known as the First Hijra, is widely remembered as one of the earliest examples of religious asylum and interfaith coexistence.

The organisers said invoking Nejashi’s legacy highlights Ethiopia’s long standing reputation as a country where different religions have historically lived side by side.

“The theme reflects compassion, national unity, and Ethiopia’s longstanding contribution to interfaith coexistence,” the council said.

The communal iftar is being held simultaneously in multiple cities and towns across Ethiopia, emphasising both the spiritual and social dimensions of Ramadan.