Al-shabab and Hizbul-Islam militias believe that those who die fighting during the holy month gain extra heavenly rewards. The pro government militia Ahlu-Summa Wal-Jama also said that it will increase its attacks against Al-shabab and Hizbul-Islam.

The spokesman for the AMISOM forces in Mogadishu Major Barigye Ba-Hoku said that their troops are preparing for a surge in attacks from militants for the whole of period of the month.

Somali President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed has on his part urged Somalis to make peace and forgive one another during this month of Ramadan. He also wished a blessed Ramadan for the Muslims.

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. Muslims fast from dawn until dusk as they abstain from eating, drinking, having sex and engaging in other forbidden acts in slam.

Bar-kulan.