As part of its ongoing global humanitarian efforts, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, represented by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, launched the “Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ Gift of Dates” and “Iftar for Fasting People” programs in the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, in preparation for the holy month of Ramadan. The official launch ceremony was held in the capital, Addis Ababa, in the presence of high-ranking officials.
The ceremony was attended by the Ambassador of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques to Ethiopia, Mr. Abdullah bin Hassan Al-Zahrani, and the Religious Attaché at the Embassy, Mr. Saud bin Mutlaq Al-Ghuwairi, along with the President of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs in Ethiopia, Dr. Ibrahim Tufa, and a number of prominent Islamic figures and accredited ambassadors of Arab and Islamic countries.
Historical background of Saudi Ramadan initiatives
The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ Ramadan programs are a long-standing annual tradition reflecting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s leading role in serving Islam and Muslims worldwide. These initiatives extend to more than 100 countries, distributing thousands of tons of premium dates and organizing communal iftar meals, all aimed at strengthening the values of solidarity and compassion among Muslims during the holy month. These efforts are part of the Kingdom’s humanitarian diplomacy, extending a helping hand to Muslim communities, particularly in regions facing economic challenges, thus embodying the Kingdom’s mission of spreading goodness and peace.
The importance of the program and its impact in Ethiopia
The implementation of these two programs in Ethiopia is of particular importance given the country's large and long-established Muslim community. Locally, the programs directly alleviate the financial burden on thousands of needy families. Approximately 80,000 people are expected to benefit from the date distribution program, which will provide 20 tons of dates, while around 30,000 will benefit from the program providing iftar meals for those fasting during Ramadan. This support is not only material but also strengthens fraternal bonds and fosters a spirit of unity and harmony within the community. Internationally, the programs enhance bilateral relations between the Kingdom and Ethiopia and highlight the Kingdom's positive image as a major supporter of charitable and humanitarian work in Africa and the Muslim world.
During the ceremony, Ambassador Al-Zahrani delivered a speech in which he emphasized that these programs are offered under the direct guidance of the wise leadership and embody its commitment to addressing the needs of Muslims everywhere. For his part, Dr. Ibrahim Tufa expressed his deep gratitude and appreciation to the Kingdom's government for this annual gesture, which has become a cherished tradition for Ethiopian Muslims, and commended the Kingdom's significant efforts in serving the causes of the Muslim Ummah.
