🌙 Vision Development Foundation Spreads Ramadan Blessings Across The Gambia ((((Photos Source: Mr Lamin Mbengue - MP Media))))

In fulfilment of their Islamic religious obligations and unwavering commitment to humanity, **Vision Development Foundation (VDF)** continues its cherished tradition of sharing kindness and hope during the holy month of Ramadan.
Last Thursday at its Churchill’s Town premises, VDF distributed essential food items — including bread, sugar, dates, tea, milk — along with cash support to needy families and vulnerable community members. The charity drive, which began on Thursday and Friday, is expected to continue throughout the holy month.
Over the years, VDF’s Ramadan outreach has benefited a wide cross-section of Gambian society, including institutions, Islamic religious and community organisations, political parties, media houses, Area Councils, Ward Councillors, National Assembly Members, and disability communities. The initiative has reached communities from the Greater Banjul Area to the Upper River Region (URR). True to its inclusive spirit, similar gestures are extended during Tobaski and Christian festive celebrations — reinforcing unity, tolerance, and national solidarity. --- The History and Virtues of Ramadan Ramadan holds profound spiritual significance in Islam. In 610 CE, Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) received the first revelation of the Holy Quran from Allah through Angel Gabriel in the Cave of Hira near Mecca. The Quran was revealed over 23 years, beginning in Ramadan, making the month one of divine guidance and spiritual renewal. Fasting in Ramadan was made obligatory in 624 CE, in the second year of Hijra, and remains one of the Five Pillars of Islam. Virtues of Ramadan * **Month of Revelation:** The Quran was revealed in Ramadan — a source of guidance and mercy. * **Forgiveness & Mercy:** A time for repentance, renewal, and spiritual cleansing. * **Multiplied Rewards:** Good deeds, charity, and acts of kindness carry greater rewards. * **Laylat al-Qadr (Night of Power):** The holiest night of the year, better than a thousand months. * **Fasting (Sawm):** Teaches self-discipline, patience, and empathy for the less fortunate. * **Taqwa (God-Consciousness):** Strengthens faith and deepens spiritual reflection. * **Unity & Compassion:** Families and communities gather in worship and solidarity. Significant historical events in Ramadan include the Battle of Badr (624 CE) and the Conquest of Mecca (630 CE), both pivotal moments in Islamic history. --- Ramadan in The Gambia Across The Gambia, Muslims dedicate the last ten days of Ramadan to intensified worship, late-night prayers (Taraweeh), Quran recitation, charity, and spiritual retreat (Iitikaf). Mosques become centres of devotion, reflection, and communal unity. Ramadan is not only about abstaining from food and drink from dawn to sunset — it is about nurturing compassion, discipline, generosity, and lifelong commitment to righteousness. As organisations like Vision Development Foundation continue to uplift vulnerable communities, they embody the true spirit of Ramadan: giving, caring, and strengthening the bonds of humanity. 🌙 **Ramadan Mubarak!** May this blessed month bring peace, forgiveness, and spiritual growth to all.

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