The US Embassy in Ghana has in keeping with the Islamic pillar of Zakat (charitable giving) provided 20 households in need with a one-week food supply during the Ramadan.

With that donation, Stephanie Sullivan, the US Ambassador to Ghana said her government is helping some of the most vulnerable members of the community break their fast.

"Thank you to the Islamic Education Unit and its volunteers who made the food distribution possible.

"I truly wish that members of my Embassy team and I had been able to do this ourselves in person, but I hope you will understand the need to remain socially distanced during the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic," the Ambassador said.

This was contained in a heartfelt message to the Muslim community in Ghana as Muslims around the world mark the ninth month of the Islamic calendar with fasting and quranic recitations.

She advised all Muslims to take precautionary measures as "We are living in unprecedented times, and it is important that we all take the necessary precautions for the collective good."

"This means adjusting to new ways, even as we practice deep-rooted traditions in keeping with our religious faiths.

"And so I encourage all Muslims in Ghana to earnestly seek spiritual fulfilment as you mark the holiest period in the Islamic calendar," Stephanie Sullivan said.

She conceded that "It may be difficult not to be able to go to the mosque for prayer or to gather with the wider community to break the fast, but it is my hope that you nevertheless feel the spirit of the holiday, conducting ablution and prayer in your homes and sharing a meal each evening with the loved ones nearest to you."

"Ramadan is a period of reflection, and as I look back on my time in Ghana, I want to recognize the religious leaders who have established, maintained, and bolstered interfaith engagement, cooperation, and partnership.

"Beyond establishing schools, feeding the hungry, and providing a range of social services, Christian and Muslim faith leaders have repeatedly used their platforms to convey messages of harmony and tolerance.

"This has been critical to Ghana’s stability and democratic success, and it will surely help the country weather the current challenges related to the coronavirus," the US Ambassador said.

She lauded Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, the National Chief Imam, who turned 101 on Thursday.

Describing him as one of the "most respected of leaders in Ghana" Ms Sullivan commended him for his "tireless and inspirational advocate of religious tolerance."

"He has also provided crucial guidance to communities and policymakers throughout Ghana about the measures we need to implement if we are to overcome the current challenges and emerge stronger.

"So let me take this opportunity to wish this champion of peace a very happy 101st birthday."

To all Muslims in Ghana, on behalf of the Embassy community and the United States government, she wished everyone good health, safety and blessings.