In the Islamic calendar, Ramadhan is the ninth month which Muslims observe by fasting from dusk to dawn. Fasting is one of the five pillars of Islam. During the month of Ramadhan, muslims wake up early for Suhoor, a meal they have before the dawn prayers which mark the start of the daylong fast which is broken at dusk with a meal known as Iftar.
Iftar time turns the streets of Mombasa into an amazing street food fair with vendors displaying delicious trays of tasty foods for residents to buy. These include kaimati, katlesi, mahamri, viazi vya karai, bhajia, vitumbua, mkate wa sinia. The streets between the Old Town, Mwembe Tayari and Marikiti areas are lined with traders displaying various coastal foods.
The prices start at sh5 for small Kaimati and rises to sh30 for vitumbua. With a few shillings, one can break the fast in town before heading home for a proper meal.
Dates are popular to break the fast. This is done in emulation of Prophet Mohammed, who broke his fast in this manner.
Viazi vya karai and Bhajia on display.
Food vendors call passers by to their stand.
Traders display their wares on the streets. The home made delicacies are more popular and cheaper than what is served in restaurants.
Delicious sugar coated kaimatis on display.
Ramadhan will come to an end either on Friday or Saturday 18th July depending on the sighting of the moon which will give way to Eid festivities.
Photos by www.lifeinMombasa.com