Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration Kipchumba Murkomen has officially declared Monday, March 31, 2025, a public holiday to mark Idd-ul-Fitr. The announcement was made through a Gazette Notice dated Friday, March 28, confirming the recognition of this significant Islamic celebration across the country.
The declaration is in accordance with Section 2 (1) of the Public Holidays Act, which grants the Interior CS the authority to designate public holidays. “IT IS notified for the general information of the public that, in exercise of the powers conferred by section 2 (1) of the Public Holidays Act, the Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration declares that Monday, the 31st March, 2025, shall be a public holiday to mark Idd-ul-Fitr,” the notice read.
Idd-ul-Fitr is an important religious holiday celebrated by Muslims worldwide as it marks the end of Ramadan, a month of fasting, prayer, and reflection. The festival takes place during the first three days of Shawwāl, the 10th month of the Islamic calendar, and is one of the two major holidays in Islam, the other being Idd-ul-Adha.
During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, refraining from food, drink, and other physical needs as an act of devotion and self-discipline. The conclusion of this sacred month is marked with Idd-ul-Fitr, which is a time of joy, gratitude, and community spirit.
Idd-ul-Fitr is a festive occasion that brings together family, friends, and the wider Muslim community. The day begins with a special prayer known as the “Salat al-Eid” performed at mosques or open grounds. After prayers, Muslims engage in acts of charity, known as Zakat al-Fitr, to support those in need.
Families gather for celebratory meals, exchange gifts, wear new clothes, and visit the graves of deceased relatives to offer prayers. It is also a time of reconciliation and strengthening social bonds.
The declaration of a public holiday for Idd-ul-Fitr allows Kenyan Muslims to fully participate in the celebrations and promotes inclusivity within the country’s diverse religious landscape.
