20100817
africanews

Food prices in the war-torn Somalia have increased during the fasting holy month of Ramadan. Somali businessmen in Mogadishu told AfricaNews that the food prices had gone up by 50 percent since Ramadan began last week.

A trader Ahmed Jama Ali said that everything was rising because of limited supplies. Many traders have left the capital after rebel militias vowed more attacks against African Union force and government soldiers.

"Many of the traders have left the town and those who remain are not importing any goods because of the difficulties in the country," Jama told AfricaNews.

Some rebel militias believe those who die fighting during the holy month gain extra heavenly rewards.

Another business man who requested anonymity says the imports were stopped because both government and rebels are demanding an extra tax.

Somalis are asking those fighting in the country to stop violence at least only this month. Wednesday marked the start of Ramadan in parts of Somalia, a period during which Muslims are to increase the number of times they pray daily and refrain from eating, drinking or sex from dawn until dusk. Muslims usually start fasting when they reach adult age, around 15.

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. The month is marked by increased attendance at mosques, a rise in charitable giving and family gatherings.

Fasting is intended to teach Muslims about patience, humility and spirituality and is a time for Muslims to fast for the sake of God and to offer more prayer than usual.