The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration has taken delivery of 50 tons of Date fruits from the custodian of the Two Holy Mosques of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, His Royal Highness King Abdullah Bin Abdul-Aziz Al Saud, on behalf of the government.
The presentation by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is to support the Ghanaian Muslim community in the Month of Ramadan while strengthening the existing bond of friendship between the two countries.
Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Ghana, Meshal Al-Rogi, said, “the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on its humanitarian ground and in conformity with the Royal directives … presents these cartons of Dates, to reflect the deep and strong relations based on the cooperation and friendship that exists between the two countries.”
He said the Date fruit is the most important fruit in Saudi Arabian culture because it has deep historical and religious significance, adding that its rich minerals and vitamins will help Muslims replenish their lost energies during the fast.
Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister, Mohammad Habibu Tijani receiving the 8th of such donation to the government, said it is an honour for Saudi Arabia to consider Ghana a worthy partner to share one of its most treasured natural resources with.
He said, “the people of Ghana and particularly, our large Muslim communities are grateful to be beneficiaries of this important fruit which has been mentioned in several verses and Hadith (narration) of the Holy Quran and the prophet of Islam, Muhammad, Peace Be Unto Him (PBUH) respectively regarding its medicinal benefits.”
Mr Tijani said, “due to the energy qualities of the Date fruits, its consumption during the month of Ramadan is very important. This is in line with the saying of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) that when one of you is fasting, he should break his fast with dates; but if he cannot get any, then he should break his fast with water, for water is purifying.”
By Jamila Akweley Okertchiri