Ramadan - Beggars Besiege Kano

October 1, 2007

Author: Alu Kingsley

Source: AllAfrica.com

http://allafrica.com/stories/200710010218.html

Beggars have increased in Kano since the beginning of Ramadan two weeks ago, investigation has revealed.

The beggars, mostly women and under-age children are found in major public places, begging for alms.

Many of them also throng the homes of public servants and the rich, waiting for the occupants to come out and give them money.

The development is said to be largely attributed to the annual Islamic obligation, Zakkat, which dictates that a qualified Muslim should give a certain part of his wealth to the needy.

The influx of beggars is also traced to the Ramadan feeding programme, introduced by the government several years ago, for indigent faithfuls.