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Interior Cabinet Secretary, Kithure Kindiki, has issued a declaration that Wednesday, April 10, 2024, will be observed as a public holiday throughout Kenya.
Through a gazette notice released on Tuesday, April 9, Kindiki officially proclaimed the public holiday to honor Idd-ul-Fitr.
The notice, citing the powers vested in the Cabinet Secretary by section 2(1) of the Public Holidays Act, reads, “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 Wednesday, the 10th April, 2024, shall be a Public Holiday to mark Idd-ul-Fitr.”
Idd-ul-Fitr denotes the conclusion of the sacred month of Ramadan, which commenced on March 11, 2024.
This festival holds immense significance for Muslims worldwide, symbolizing a period of joy, introspection, and appreciation. It signifies the culmination of a month-long journey of fasting and spiritual enrichment.
Also referred to as the “Festival of Breaking the Fast,” Idd-ul-Fitr commences with the sighting of the new moon. Muslims convene for a special congregational prayer known as the Salat al-Eid.
Following the prayer, Muslims exchange greetings of “Eid Mubarak” (Blessed Eid) and partake in the tradition of sharing gifts and food with loved ones.
Integral to the celebration is the practice of charitable giving, known as zakat al-fitr, wherein Muslims are obligated to offer a specific amount of money or food to those in need before the Eid prayer. This ensures that everyone can partake in the festivities and enjoy a fulfilling celebration.
