Ramadan in Algeria: No One Goes Hungry with Guaranteed Iftar for All | Dzair Tube Ramadan Series (05)

BY: Dr. Hana Saada

ALGIERS- During Ramadan, fasting holds profound significance in Algeria, extending beyond religious obligations to encompass a societal ethos of compassion, generosity, and solidarity, as demonstrated by a wide array of social and communal efforts nationwide.

Communal Iftar Gatherings and Volunteering

A notable feature of Ramadan in Algeria is the organization of collective Iftar gatherings by charitable organizations, aiming to provide meals for the homeless, destitute, travelers, and those in need. These communal events not only offer nourishment but also foster a sense of community and unity.

Volunteering is a cherished tradition during Ramadan, with individuals and groups dedicating their time to prepare and serve meals at benevolent establishments known as “Rahma” or “Mercy” restaurants. Led by various entities including government bodies, scouting organizations, and charitable groups, this initiative seeks to uphold the dignity of individuals by ensuring access to warm meals during the holy month.

The preparation of meals at these establishments is carried out voluntarily, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Efforts are made to provide complimentary and hot meals to meet the substantial demand, reflecting a collective commitment to social welfare.

As part of its solidarity efforts, the Algerian Red Crescent, under the guidance of the higher authorities, opens hundreds of restaurants across the country to provide rich and varied Iftar meals for travelers and distributes meals to road users.

The Algerian government, under the auspices of its higher authorities, demonstrates unwavering commitment to ensuring that all Algerians have access to dignified iftar meals during the holy month of Ramadan. This dedication is manifested through a range of initiatives coordinated by governmental bodies and facilitated by the humanitarian efforts of organizations such as the Algerian Red Crescent. These endeavors aim to promote solidarity among Algerians, reflecting the government’s prioritization of social welfare and communal well-being during this sacred period.

Philanthropic Initiatives and Support

Similarly, philanthropists and restaurant owners open their doors to provide Iftar meals for fasting individuals and travelers. For instance, a restaurant owner in Constantine annually transforms their establishment into a hub for Iftar gatherings, inviting drivers to join for a complimentary meal.

Additionally, some workers who spend Ramadan away from their families benefit from Iftar meals, creating an atmosphere that alleviates the pain of separation.

Charitable organizations also distribute light Iftar meals to drivers on highways and main intersections.

Grib of Ramadan

Needy families benefit from programs like “Kofat Ramadan,” or “the Grib of Ramadan” which provide essential food staples and traditional Ramadan fare. This initiative ensures vulnerable households receive vital sustenance throughout the month.

Traditional Practices of Sharing and Solidarity

The tradition of “Louazia,” or sharing, involves collective procurement of meat for distribution among community members, regardless of socio-economic status, emphasizing principles of dignity and equality.

This tradition is typically manifested through a collective effort by the villagers to purchase a group of calves, which are then slaughtered. This usually takes place on Fridays after prayers, and the meat is distributed among the families and residents of the village equally, with special attention given to the poor and needy families.

Many associations accompany these beautiful initiatives during the holy month of Ramadan, participating in and organizing them to benefit vulnerable groups.

Ait Mansour, a resident of a village in the province of Tlemcen, outlined the sequence of events during this occasion, which unfolds in a well-organized and structured manner. The process begins with collecting money from benefactors, traders, and businessmen who wish to participate. This money is then entrusted to the village head or elder, who tasks an association or group of individuals with the responsibility of purchasing the calves and organizing the event, a tradition left by the ancestors.

“After acquiring the calves, a meeting is held in the ‘Thajmaat,’ a village council that regulates these customs and traditions, as well as societal norms, to compile a list of the area’s residents and different families, especially the poor and needy, to distribute the shares of meat equally among them,” explained Ait Mansour.

Charitable work is embodied in the solidarity, cooperation, and mutual assistance demonstrated by all families in the village, who contribute a significant amount of money to buy a group of calves. All participants’ names are recorded, including the poor who may not have contributed financially. However, in the end, the meat is distributed to everyone, without anyone knowing who contributed or did not contribute, due to their financial situation.

After Friday prayers, it is the duty of the village Imam to remind people to gather in front of the mosque to participate in the slaughter, skinning, and cleaning process, facilitating a rapid process due to everyone’s cooperation. The following Saturday is typically designated for cutting and distributing the meat, directly distributing it to the residents, with any surplus being given to neighboring villages.

Sometimes, a communal feast is organized during the iftar for the locals, with some women volunteering to cook, while others distribute the food in an atmosphere filled with joy and happiness, characterized by beautiful manifestations of compassion and solidarity.

In essence, Ramadan in Algeria is a time of spiritual reflection and devotion, characterized by acts of kindness, generosity, and solidarity that embody the true spirit of the holy month. Through these initiatives, Algerians reaffirm their commitment to compassion and communal support, ensuring that the blessings of Ramadan are shared with all members of society.

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