In a world where differences often divide us, there are moments that bring people together on the deepest level. One such moment is Eid al-Adha, known in The Gambia as Tobaski – one of the most important Muslim holidays, uniting faith, family, community, and solidarity.
What is Tobaski and what does it mean?
Tobaski, or Eid al-Adha (also known as the Festival of Sacrifice), has deep spiritual roots. It is connected to the story of the Prophet Abraham, who was willing to sacrifice his son as an act of complete devotion to God. Instead of his son, an animal was sacrificed – and this symbolism of sacrifice, faith, and trust in a higher will remains at the heart of the celebration today.
The word qurbani means sacrifice – most commonly a sheep (sometimes also a goat or a cow). This act is not only a religious ritual but also act of solidarity: the meat is divided into three parts – one for the family, one for neighbors, and one for those most in need.
When do we celebrate it?
Tobaski is celebrated approximately 2 months and 10 days after Ramadan, on the 10th day of the month of Dhul-Hijjah in the Islamic lunar calendar. Since the calendar is lunar, the date shifts by about 10–12 days each year.
This year, Tobaski will be celebrated on May 26, 2026.
The holiday also coincides with the pilgrimage (Hajj) to Mecca, one of the fundamental acts of worship in Islam. Every Muslim is expected to complete it at least once in their lifetime, if possible.
How do the preparations take place?
Preparations for Tobaski begin several days in advance – and they are impossible to miss:
- Markets come alive, full of people buying essentials and food.
- Tailors work day and night sewing traditional clothes – everyone wants to wear something new and special.
- Women prepare their homes, cook festive meals, and style their hair.
- Children eagerly await the holiday – often receiving new clothes if their family can afford it.
The atmosphere is filled with anticipation, color, music, and life.
The festive day
On the day of Tobaski, everything begins early in the morning with a communal prayer. People gather, exchange greetings, and often resolve past conflicts – the holiday is also a time of forgiveness and new beginnings.
This is followed by the ritual sacrifice, where families give according to their means. A key part of the celebration is sharing food – a symbol of care, unity, and connection.
The streets fill with:
- children in colorful (and often new) clothes,
- families visiting relatives,
- the aroma of traditional food,
- a feeling of warmth and belonging.
As many volunteers experience, the hospitality of Gambian people is especially evident during this time – doors are open, smiles are genuine, and the sense of community is strong.
How can we experience the holiday ourselves?
Tobaski is not just a religious celebration – it is also an opportunity for intercultural connection. The best way to understand it is to experience it:
- spend time with local families,
- taste traditional food,
- observe or participate in food sharing,
- learn about the values of solidarity, respect, and community.
How can we contribute and become part of the story?
Tobaski carries a strong message of solidarity and sharing – and we can take part in this spirit as well. There are two ways to contribute:
Collective donation (shared qurbani)
You can contribute any amount to our shared fund. With the collected funds, we will purchase animals (depending on the total amount), which will be distributed to the poorest families, who will then divide the meat into three parts.
This is the simplest and most accessible way to brighten the holiday for those in need. It is also an option for Muslims who are unable to perform the sacrifice themselves.
Donation for a specific family
If you would like to donate an animal to a specific family, you can contribute the full amount for its purchase. Prices for sheeps start at 16,500 dalasi (approx. €210). Larger animals or cows start from €600 and above.
Our goal is to raise enough funds to purchase at least 20 sheeps – 4200€.
DONATION DETAILS:
Account Name: VOLUNTEER TRAILS – THE GAMBIA
Account Number (GMD): 6240037610
Account Number (EUR): 6240037611
Swift Code: ECOCGMGMXXX
Beneficiary Bank: Ecobank Gambia Ltd.
Beneficiary Bank Address: 42 Kairaba Avenue, Serekunda – The Gambia.
Regardless of your decision, we kindly ask you to inform us via email – info@volunteertrails.com so we can ensure proper organization and distribution, understanding how important this is for Muslim families.
An opportunity for all of us
Tobaski is not just a day on the calendar. It is a time to pause, look at one another, and remember what truly matters:
faith, community, compassion, and sharing.
For many who encounter this culture for the first time, it is a life-changing experience – breaking stereotypes and opening hearts.
