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Iftar on the move - Bamako youth turn traffic jams into hubs of Ramadan solidarity

Iftar on the move - Bamako youth turn traffic jams into hubs of Ramadan solidarity

"Youth-led volunteer groups in Bamako distributed Iftar meals to drivers caught up in heavy traffic, ensuring they can break their fast on time as the sun sets. Footage filmed on Thursday shows volunteers carrying food plates and handing out ready-to-eat meals to drivers. Others are seen preparing juice, coffee, and dates. “It is often difficult to be home in time for Iftar. Bringing food to people at that moment allows them to break their fast calmly and comfortably, without the rush of trying to get back home,” said Salif Coulibaly, a motorcyclist. Dr Ibrahima Ely Dicko, a sociologist, highlighted that these self-organised initiatives reflect Malian values of mutual support and solidarity. “Society and religion ask us to share the little we have,” Dicko said. “You don’t have to be rich to do good—solidarity is everyone’s responsibility, and each person must contribute to helping others.” “We are trying to spread a message of national cohesion with the limited means we have,” stressed Sora Baba Yaya, the initiative's coordinator. Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is considered one of the holiest months for Muslims. During this month, fasting is observed from dawn until sunset - one of the pillars of Islam."