• President Akufo-Addo exchanging pleasantries with Dr. Sheikh Osmanu Nuhu Sharubutu

Muslims across the country joined the much-anticipated Eid Al-Adha celebrations last weekend with many of them taking part in intercessory prayers for Allah to make their lives beautiful and meaningful. 

The Black Star Square in Accra hosted hundreds of worshippers from various Muslim communities as the National Chief Imam, Dr. Sheikh Osmanu Nuhu Sharubutu, led the prayers and urged the public to remain peaceful and share the little they have with others.

President Akufo-Addo graced the occasion where he, among other things, pledged to deliver on the commitments made towards the development of the Muslim community.

Dressed in stylish and colourful outfit, the celebrants including children and women praised Allah for His blessings and protection throughout the years.

Our photographer, Lizzy Okai, captured some worshippers carrying their children on horses as they arrived at the Square.

A handful of traders also tried to get some cash selling items before and after the prayers.

Some families and individuals also took to social media to flaunt their dresses which attracted positive reviews from well-wishers. It was again refreshing to see some Christians join their Muslim brothers in the celebration as some of them joked that they did not get their share of the ‘Sallah meat’.

In Arabic, EID AL-ADHA translates to “Festival of Sacrifice.” The holiday commemorates Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son Ismail (Ishmael) when Allah commanded him to. Before Ibrahim could do so, Allah provided him with a ram to sacrifice in Ismail’s place.

As part of this year’s celebrations, hundreds of Muslims made the trip to Mecca. The first batch of about 400 pilgrims took off from Accra on June, 20, 2022.

The increasing cost of items, however, reflected in the prices of livestock as some people complained they were unable to buy sheep and goats for the celebrations. Nonetheless some benevolent organisations ensured there was enough meat for the less privileged who could not afford it.

Some families went to recreational centres in Accra to continue their celebration although different beaches recorded low patronage. In all, it was a peaceful event just as various groups were told to abide by the rules and regulations in the midst of the celebrations.

By Elizabeth Ackon & Pamela Davordzie