The month of Ramadan gives the city of Mohammedia a particular resonance and appeal. The inhabitants, happy to welcome this month of piety, live at a new daily pace. "Habits change in this city where the modern coexists with the traditional," affirms a resident of Mohammedia. The fact that this small city is home to a population from various regions of the Kingdom gives it a particular aspect in connection with customs. In the evening, during the breaking of the fast, all members of the family sit around a table, creating a real atmosphere of relaxation and gaiety. This is one of the warmest moments where families meet around Moroccan dishes and gastronomic specialities. "Dates, honey, coffee, tea, fish, eggs, soup (harira), cakes, and Moroccan specialities (chbakia, mlaouis, sellou...) are always present on our table in addition to a fish or meat dish," a mother confides to us. According to city officials, the markets of Mohammedia are normally supplied with basic necessities, despite the high demand. The prices of fish, which is in high demand during this month, have risen but have not discouraged some regulars. For better consumer protection, the control services have no rest this month. They scrutinise everything concerning the global display of products and services, quality, food hygiene... After breaking the fast, some inhabitants of the city watch television while others meet after the "taraouih" prayer at cafés. Sport is one of the main occupations of the inhabitants of Mohammedia during Ramadan.
Furthermore, the animation is in full swing at the Kasbah and near the fountain. "The services concerned," points out this student on holiday in Mohammedia, "must direct their efforts by programming more religious activities such as Quran recitation competitions, artistic, sporting, and cultural evenings..." The month of Ramadan is also an excellent period that grants us unprecedented lessons on life and gives a new dynamic to social action based on volunteering and solidarity. In Mohammedia, social actions have become a tradition to boost the values of ethics and support for the needy. Charitable associations, benefactors, and the commune work each on their own side to draw a smile on the lips of the most destitute. "The wish is that charitable associations schedule visits to the hospital, the prison, the Muslim charity society, and the destitute elderly to strengthen the feeling of solidarity towards this segment of the population often forgotten," an association actor confides to us. The fight against precariousness and exclusion is also carried out in Mohammedia through awareness campaigns on certain diseases. Ramadan brings a really different note to the inhabitants of Mohammedia. It mingles with the life of the citizens, recalling the importance of tradition and religion.
Spiritual gathering
Ramadan in Mohammedia is also a month of prayer and drawing closer to God. Some take advantage of this singular period to go to the mosque for the performance of "tarawih". Millions of faithful of all ages flock to the various mosques of this city to pray and meditate.
An atmosphere of self-denial and submission strengthens during this month of fervour, prayer, and charity, the feeling of solidarity and fraternity between Muslims. In the various mosques, arrangements have been made to welcome the faithful and allow them to perform prayers in good conditions.
