Minister urges Muslims to remain steadfast in Ramadan as FGRF donates food relief

Malawi’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, George Chaponda, has encouraged the Muslim community to remain committed to fasting and prayer as the holy month of Ramadan approaches its final days, describing the period as vital for strengthening faith and praying for the country’s economic recovery.

Chaponda made the remarks in Mulanje Southwest during a food distribution exercise organized by the Faizan Global Relief Foundation (FGRF), which has been providing humanitarian support to vulnerable families during the sacred month.

Speaking to the gathering, the minister said Ramadan offers believers an opportunity to deepen their relationship with God while also praying for peace, unity and economic stability in Malawi.

He urged Muslims to remain steadfast in observing the remaining days of fasting.

Chaponda also commended the humanitarian work being carried out by FGRF, saying such initiatives demonstrate compassion and solidarity with communities facing economic hardship.

The food distribution event, held at Chonde Catholic Ground in Mulanje Southwest, benefited thousands of families who received food packs meant to sustain them during the final days of Ramadan and the upcoming Eid celebrations.

According to FGRF Director of Public Relations and Communications, Ibrahim Omar Mataya, the organization’s Ramadan relief programme has already reached nearly 26,000 vulnerable families across Malawi, with about 3,000 households benefiting from the Mulanje distribution.

Mataya said the initiative reflects the core teachings of Islam, which encourage believers to care for their neighbours and ensure that no member of the community goes hungry.

He added that beyond providing food, the foundation aims to restore dignity and spread hope among families struggling with rising living costs.

FGRF has pledged to continue implementing humanitarian programmes aimed at supporting vulnerable communities even beyond the Ramadan period.