Ramadan in Egypt transcends mere observance, embodying a time of communal harmony, spiritual reflection, and widespread generosity. Home to 78.61% of Muslims, constituting 4.57% of the global Muslim population, Egypt showcases a remarkable commitment to this sacred month (World Population Review, 2024). The TGM Ramadan Insights in Egypt 2024, drawing insights from a sample of 1,250 individuals aged 18 and over 40, reveals that an impressive 97% of Egyptians actively engage in Ramadan's practices annually, with charity playing a pivotal role. This period sees Egyptians, young and old, prioritizing giving, underscoring the profound impact of Ramadan on fostering a sense of unity and compassion across the nation.

The report highlights that Egyptians allocate a significant portion of their Ramadan budget to charity, with 23% of spending dedicated to helping those in need. Interestingly, the youth of Egypt, particularly those aged 18-24, are at the forefront of this philanthropic push, dedicating 25% of their Ramadan expenditures to charitable causes. This engagement from the younger generation indicates a promising continuation of benevolent practices, embedding the values of empathy and community support from a young age.

The report further uncovers a heartening trend: 68% of Egyptians plan to increase their charitable donations this Ramadan, surpassing previous years. This inclination is particularly strong among men and Egyptians aged 30-39, with 70% and 72%, respectively, intending to donate more. Such statistics not only reflect the enduring nature of Ramadan's call to generosity but also the society's response to growing needs amid economic challenges.

The profound impact of Ramadan's culture of charity in Egypt is vividly illustrated through individual and collective efforts. An enlightening example comes from a Reuters interview with an individual who has been providing free meals during Ramadan for the past five years. Starting with 500 meals, the initiative has grown to distribute over 4,000 meals this year, reflecting the increasing needs within the community amidst economic challenges.

These personal initiatives underscore the broader cultural commitment to giving during Ramadan. Beyond numbers, they tell stories of hope, resilience, and community strength. Through each meal distributed, the essence of Ramadan is brought to life, reinforcing the bonds of community and shared humanity. These efforts demonstrate how even in the face of adversity, the spirit of Ramadan encourages a collective response to uplift and support one another, truly embodying the values of empathy, solidarity, and the joy of giving.

The Egyptian Food Bank plays a crucial role in supporting underprivileged families across Egypt, especially during Ramadan. By distributing 'Ramadan happiness boxes,' the organization brings essential supplies and joy to those observing the fast but facing financial hardships. These boxes are carefully prepared to meet the needs of the most vulnerable, ensuring that the spirit of the holy month reaches every corner of the country (GlobalGiving, 2024). This initiative not only addresses immediate needs but also fosters a sense of community and shared celebration.

In its commitment to tackle hunger beyond the month of Ramadan, the Egyptian Food Bank is engaged in creating and implementing a variety of long-term initiatives. These include development programs, awareness campaigns, educational projects, and continuous food aid, all designed to provide sustainable solutions to hunger. By collaborating with credible and potential partners across different sectors, the Food Bank aims to build a comprehensive network of support that can effectively address the root causes of hunger and ensure that every Egyptian has access to the basic necessities of life (GlobalGiving, 2024).

Discover more insights on Ramadan in Egypt – Download the full report at TGM Ramadan Insights in Egypt 2024.