Fasting should not compromise your work

Kamiro Feeds in Kisenyi has four Muslim workers. Their day, which begins at 6:30am and ends at 7pm, requires them to, among others; operate grain mills, packing and carrying heavy sacks of animal feeds.
During Ramadan, they are expected to continue with work like on any other day. But customers are wary of the output from the workers, with some claiming that they may not be up to the task because their energy levels might have dropped.
At Kibuli Hospital, Abdul-Aziiz Tenywa, a registered nurse, goes about receiving patients, doing vital observations, treatment, carrying out daily dressing, resuscitating the ill ones and discharging others. This daily routine will continue until the end of the fasting period which started last week.
Fasting during the holy month of Ramadhan, as the fourth pillar of Islam, is a period of self-deprivation which requires a Muslim to fully refrain from eating, drinking and sexual intercourse between dawn and dusk.

Hindrance
It is sometimes associated with a loss of water in the body, a decline in energy levels, disruption of sleep patterns and subsequent dizziness during day, among others.
So does fasting cause a fall in a worker’s efficiency?
To Mr Tenywa, fasting does not hinder his performance because “I do all my work, normally.”
This he attributes to the conducive working environment. He does all his work indoors so he is not exposed to direct sunlight, which would otherwise dehydrate him.
In addition, “Before Ramadhan started, we were given some package in form of food to cover us for some part of the month,” he says.
Like at Kibuli Hospital, Kamiro Feeds’ manager Margaret Nabatanzi says, workers get special meals to make up for their lunch plus some money to keep them motivated for the next day.
But as the hours become longer, some employees tend to feel slightly weaker.
Mr Musa Kalanzi, the deputy head in charge of administration at Kakungulu Memorial School-Kibuli admits that, naturally, there is some decline in the teachers’ efficiency, say from 99 to 80 per cent, especially during afternoons when the temperatures are high.
“Our staff are usually in good stead in the morning and afternoon hours. In the evenings, they tend to become weaker. But this has not stopped them from performing their duties,” Mr Swaleh Tamim Baluku, the human resource manager Kibuli Hospital says.
“In fact, the patients’ turn up is increasing and the employees’ output is rising proportionately because even the would-be time for breakfast and lunch is used for work.”

“Psychologically, when you prepare your mind that ‘I am going to fast’, you will not feel the hunger that much as you would when you are not fasting.”
Special treatment?
In an Islamic setting like Kibuli Hospital, the special treatment during Ramadan is a norm. But Baluku says it is not exclusive to Muslims.
“So during Ramadan, other organisations should be considerate with Muslim workers by assigning them less work; giving them incentives, as it is done during Christmas and Easter.
But human resource expert Isaiah Kitimbo maintains that workers should not demand special working mode during Ramadan. Requests like working half day or lesser hours are uncalled for.
“Precisely, it is counterproductive to both employees and the company. In addition, employees sign targets with supervisors, which must be met at all times, whether they are fasting or not.”
According to Mr Kitimbo, you can delegate some work to your non-Muslim colleagues, especially during time for prayers. This saves you the trouble of worrying or rushing for prayers.
Also in order to complete your work load, report early to work and do the bulk of the work in the morning when the energy levels are higher.

All is work
“Lighter work can be handled later in the afternoon. If you work late night or on an evening shift, ensure you communicate with your supervisor for a private arrangement for meals to be provided at work to avoid missing your schedule,” he advises.
“Fasting nurtures spiritual growth, which should prevail even during demanding work environments. All you need is to prepare mentally and physically. You do not necessarily need a mosque but privately, you can find a room or space for conducting individual prayers,” Mr Kitimbo says.
Sheikh Kassim Kiyingi of Bilal Islamic Institute simply put it, “There is no job which is Haram (prohibited) during Ramadhan yet Halal (allowed) during other months. Morality and how we go about jobs is what matters most, because fasting transcends just suspending meals, if Allah’s rewards is your goal.”

GENERAL TIPS

*During the early evening (after Maghrib), have a healthy and balanced dinner. Do not overeat, and be sure to drink a few more glasses of fluids.
*During the evening hours, resist the temptation to drink tea, coffee, and soda. When visiting friends or family, ask for water.
*Serve yourself, your family, and guests a “dessert” of fresh fruit and nuts. There are lovely choices available in this season, and they are much more healthy than chocolates and candy.
*Sip on water throughout the evening. Aim for 8 glasses by bedtime. To help you keep track, fill and refill a water bottle with a measured amount of water, and be sure to finish it.
*Light exercise, such as walking for 15-20 minutes, is best done in the evening hours.
*Avoid fried and spicy foods as they may cause heartburn or indigestion.
*Speak to your doctor about an appropriate multi-vitamin.
*Continue to brush and floss your teeth several times a day.
*Wash your hands regularly, and avoid those who cough or sneeze. This is important to prevent the spread of disease. *Organise your schedule so that you get enough sleep.

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