Cairo: The Kuwaiti government has allowed male worshippers to perform the Taraweeh prayers, associated with the holy month of Ramadan, in mosques, but curtailed them to 15 minutes as part of efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19.
Kuwait, a country of overall population of 4.7 million, has so far confirmed a total of 248,729 virus cases and 1,412 fatalities.
The Council of Ministers has decided to allow holding the Taraweeh following the Isha (evening) prayers for 15 minutes per day with worshippers abiding by health measures currently in force in mosques, Kuwaiti media reported.
As part of measures to limit the COVID-19 spread, mosques are closed following each prayer, while lectures and other activities in mosques are banned. Those who have not received the vaccination against COVID-19 are exhorted to pray at home as a precaution.
The government has also banned iftar (fast-breaking) and suhur (pre-dawn) meals in mosques and public places. Instead, charity meals are allowed to be distributed without causing a gathering.
Last week, the Kuwaiti government extended a nighttime curfew until April 22, while shortening its hours. The curfew was originally due to end last Thursday. During the extension period, the curfew will continue daily from 7pm until 5am.
