The Office of the National Chief Imam has announced that the crescent moon marking the start of Ramadan 2026 will be observed on Wednesday, February 18, corresponding to the 29th day of Sha’ban on the Islamic calendar, in accordance with established moon-sighting traditions.
The Office explained that if the crescent is successfully sighted on Wednesday evening, then Thursday, February 19, 2026, will be officially declared the first day of Ramadan. If the moon is not sighted, the fast will begin the following day, in line with Islamic practice.
On the other hand, if the moon is not visible, the 30-day Sha’ban will end on Thursday, and the fast will start on Friday, February 20, 2026.
The Western Region’s Takoradi hosted the 32nd Annual National Ramadan Conference, where the decision was made. The procedure is a component of the national effort to guarantee consistency in Ramadan observance.
Regional officials are expected to notify the relevant authorities of confirmed sightings, as is normal.
The Muslim community will be formally informed by the National Chief Imam or his appointed representative when the fasting period officially begins.