Muslims urged to look out for the moon on Saturday

By Issa Kigongo

Uganda’s Muslim community is preparing for the crucial moon sighting this Saturday evening that will determine the end of Ramadan and the celebration of Eid al-Fitr.

The Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) has officially called on all Muslims to vigilantly observe the evening sky on Saturday, March 29, 2025, corresponding to the 29th day of Ramadan 1446 AH.

“I would like to request Muslims in Uganda to watch out for the sight of the moon in the evening f Saturday 29th March,2025 because this will be the 29th day of Ramadhan 1446AH,” the statement reads in part.

“Should the moon be sighted in the evening of Saturday 29th March, 2025, Eid El Fitr will be celebrated on Sunday 30th March, 2025 and if the moon has not been sighted on 29th march, 2025, it will mean that Eid El Fitr will automatically be celebrated on Monday 31st March, 2025,” it added.

Sheikh Lubanga appealed to Muslims to celebrate strictly in accordance with the Islamic law/Sharia.

The sighting of the moon for Ramadhan is a contentious issue due to differing opinions on the methodology for determining the start of the holy month. There are two primary approaches: the “observation method” and “positional astronomy”

The observation method relies on physical sightings of the new moon, typically using the naked eye or with the aid of telescopes and binoculars. Some countries including Uganda use this method.

On the other hand, positional astronomy utilizes scientific calculations to determine the exact position and timing of the new moon. This method is employed by some Islamic scholars and countries.

The controversy arises from the differences between these two approaches, leading to variations in the start and end dates of Ramadhan across different regions and communities.

Some argue that the observation method is more traditional and authentic, while others believe that positional astronomy provides a more accurate and reliable determination of the moon’s position.

Relatedly, the controversy is sometimes politically motivated, with different groups or countries having varying interests in declaring the start of Ramadhan.  

Muslims in Uganda who spot the moon are urged to immediately contact the UMSC’s Directorate of Sharia at 0702 595554 for verification.