CAR: Ramadan to begin May 15-16

Event

On May 15-16 (depending on the moon in various locations around the world), Muslims will begin their month-long celebration of Ramadan. The end of the month of Ramadan, marked by the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations, will take place between June 14-16 (depending on the country and when Ramadan started). Many businesses, restaurants, and government administrations are expected to operate on a reduced schedule during this holy month. Diplomatic missions may also operate on a similar schedule.

Transportation disruptions are to be anticipated during this period due to an increased number of travelers, especially in airports. Heavy traffic after sundown is to be anticipated as Muslims typically gather for festivities and to eat with family, especially over weekends. Furthermore, traffic accidents tend to increase during Ramadan (especially at dusk) due to a combination of hunger, dehydration, exhaustion, and impatience.

Local authorities also typically observe an increase in incidents of petty crime during this period.

Finally, heavy rains are to expected during Ramadan as the rainy season spans from March to June in the Central African Republic (CAR). Power outages as well as water cuts are possible and can lead to poor food preservation (malfunctioning refrigerators and freezers) and shortages of drinking water. Traffic may be disrupted if flooding blocks major thoroughfares.

Context

Ramadan is a period of reflection and self-restraint and carries great significance within the Muslim calendar. Muslims traditionally observe daytime fasting and are called to practice increased devotion. There is no state-prescribed religion in CAR and the majority of the population is Christian. However, around 15 percent of the population is Muslim, which is concentrated in the capital Bangui and in the north.

A religious conflict has ravaged the country since December 2013; Bangui especially has been gripped by deadly clashes between the Christian civilian militia Anti-Balaka and the Muslim ex-Seleka various groups. The conflict has led to hundreds of deaths, created almost 1 million internally displaced persons (IDPs) and pushed more than 400,000 to seek refuge in the neighboring countries of Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Chad. Tensions significantly increase after attacks targeting a church and a mosque that left 24 people dead and more than 170 wounded on May 1 in Bangui. These ongoing tensions have created an environment in which violent clashes between Christians and Muslims during Ramadan are likely, especially in Bangui.

Advice

Individuals in CAR are advised to avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public by day in Muslim-majority areas during this period. Travelers are also advised to allow additional time for travel and to avoid any form of public demonstration or public gathering. Travelers are advised to remain aware of their surroundings and to report any suspicious behavior, especially considering the increased terrorist risk.

Many Western governments advise against travel to the country due to these and other security concerns. Travel should only be considered with proper security protocols in place.