AFTAB Update - Moon Sighting – Zilhajj 1447 AH

Moon Sighting Update – Zilhajj 1447 AH

In the Name of Allah, the Most Merciful, the Most Compassionate. 

The Africa Federation Tabligh Board (AFTAB) wishes to update the Mumineen regarding the moon sighting for the month of Zilhajj 1447 AH.

On the evening of Sunday 17^th May 2026, moon sighting efforts were carried out across East and Central Africa as usual.

Based on the reports received on that Sunday evening, no confirmed sighting had initially been established.

In accordance with the strict moon sighting principles followed by our Marja’, Agha Sistani (دام ظله), an announcement was therefore made that the moon had not been sighted.

Thereafter, additional sighting reports were received from a number of inland regions including Tabora, Manyara, Kilimanjaro and other areas, where the crescent was reportedly sighted under favourable local conditions by reliable observers.

Following careful review and verification of these reports, it was concluded that the moon had indeed been sighted on Sunday evening.  AFTAB therefore issued an updated announcement accordingly.

On the evening of 17^th May visibility conditions across East and Central Africa were forecasted to be very difficult, with sighting only expected under near-perfect conditions.

In many urban and coastal areas, factors such as atmospheric haze near the horizon, light pollution and local viewing conditions made sighting extremely challenging despite generally clear skies. However, some inland regions experienced clearer horizon conditions which allowed successful sightings.

AFTAB remains committed to ensuring that all moon sighting announcements are made with responsibility, caution and in accordance with the guidance of our Marja’, Agha Sistani (دام ظله).

To further strengthen this process, efforts are already underway to expand communication and coordination with reliable and active stakeholders across the region so that future reporting and verification can be even more comprehensive, InshaAllah.

We thank all observers, scholars, Jamaats and Mumineen for their understanding, cooperation and continued trust.

Africa Federation Tabligh Board

26^th May 2026