As Ramadan commences on Monday, March 11th, in the Central African Republic, in the PK5 district—a predominantly Muslim neighborhood located in the third arrondissement of Bangui—Muslim faithful aspire to move past the numerous crises that have plagued this area between 2013 and 2024. To achieve this, they have resolved to dedicate this sacred month to peace and coexistence.
In the KM5 district, also known as PK5, in Bangui, Central African Republic, the ambiance already heralds the sacred month of Ramadan. For the past week, men, women, and children have been cleaning public spaces and mosques. Amadou Roufaï, a municipal councilor in this district, sets the tone for the imams.
“We urge all imams to pray for peace, stability, and coexistence so that both communities can live together. Even atheists, we cannot exclude them either, that’s what we ask for… Peace!” he emphasizes.
Between 2013 and 2024, several hundred lives were lost in KM5. The military-political crisis also resulted in significant damages, estimated at several million CFA francs. This Ramadan presents an opportune moment for some to turn the page.
“In all our prayers, we will invoke the Almighty, first for peace, before addressing other aspects of life. Without peace, we cannot pursue our endeavors. A country cannot develop in insecurity. Therefore, peace is a prerequisite for development,” remarks Hadja Rachida Mamba, the vice president of the National Bureau of Muslim Women in the Central African Republic.
Throughout KM5, Ramadan embodies the values of peace, resilience, and generosity.