Prang, the capital of the Pru West District, a district in the Bono East Region was abuzz with excitement as thousands of people from various backgrounds gathered to celebrate the annual Maulid festival, this year.
This religious event commemorates the birth of Sidi Ahmad at-Tijani, the revered leader of the Tijaniya Sufi order from Fez, Morocco. The 2024 celebration was marked by a particularly special atmosphere, as prominent figures from the political and religious spheres came together to show their support and solidarity.
Under the esteemed leadership of the Supreme Leader, Sheikh Khalifa Ahmad Abul Faid Maikano, this year’s Maulid drew over 10,000 Muslims from across the globe to Prang, creating an unparalleled sense of enthusiasm and devotion.
The festival commenced with a memorable Friday congregational prayer at the Central Mosque of Prang, led by Sheikh Khalifa Ahmad Abul Faid Maikano. The prayer set a vibrant tone for the event, as the faithful gathered to express their love and gratitude for their spiritual leader in an atmosphere charged with spiritual energy and communal unity.
Adding to the significance of the occasion was a special visit from the Deputy Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Hon. Mark Okraku-Mantey. Representing the Minister of Tourism, Hon. Andrew Egyapa Mercer, the Deputy Minister extended warm greetings to the household of Sheikh Abdullahi Maikano. He expressed his deep appreciation for the devotion and unity exhibited by the Muslim community during the event.
In a gesture of support, Hon. Okraku-Mantey pledged to include the Maulid of Prang in the Ministry of Tourism’s programs, contingent on his government’s success in the upcoming elections. Sheikh Khalifa Abul Faid responded with gratitude, offering prayers for the government’s prosperity and for the continued peace of Ghana.
The festival also saw the presence of several high-profile political figures. The Chairman of the Ghana Hajj Board, Hon. Ben Abdallah Banda, stood alongside the National Nasara Coordinator of the NPP, Hon. Abdul Aziz Futa, and the Chairman of the Muslim Caucus in Parliament, Hon. Farouk Aliu Mahama, MP for Yendi Constituency, who represented the Vice President of Ghana and NPP’s Presidential Candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
On the other side of the political spectrum, the National Zongo Caucus Coordinator of the NDC, Hon. Mamah Mohammed, affectionately known as Cole Younger, conveyed greetings on behalf of the NDC party. Their collective presence underscored a strong message of unity and cooperation across political divides in the pursuit of peace and prosperity for all Ghanaians.
Throughout the event, attendees were drawn to a bustling marketplace, where vendors offered an array of goods, from traditional herbal remedies to exquisite Islamic attire and delicious food. The marketplace buzzed with activity, reflecting the joy and sense of community that defined the festival.
The following day, August 17, 2024, the festivities continued at Prang Park, where Muslim scholars, traditional rulers, and representatives from the diaspora shared their wisdom and insights with the youth of the Tijaniya Sufi order. Sheikh Khalifa Ahmad Abul Faid led a powerful prayer for Ghana, calling for blessings and prosperity for the nation and its people.
As the Maulid celebration drew to a close, the spirit of togetherness and harmony remained palpable, exemplifying the beauty of cultural diversity and religious tolerance in Ghana. Once again, the Maulid festival stood as a beacon of light and inspiration, symbolizing the resilience and strength of Ghana’s Islamic community in the face of challenges and adversity.
The blessings of Sheikh Abdullahi Maikano continue to guide and protect the nation, uniting its people in faith and harmony for generations to come.