Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has declared Wednesday, May 27, a public holiday to mark Eid-ul-Adha, one of the most significant celebrations in the Islamic calendar.
In a Gazette Notice published on Monday, May 25, Murkomen announced that the day would be observed nationwide as a public holiday in honor of the Muslim festival, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice.
Eid-ul-Adha is commemorated on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah, the final month of the Islamic calendar, after Muslim pilgrims complete the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. The exact date of the celebration is determined by the sighting of the moon. For Muslims who do not perform Hajj, the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are often marked by voluntary fasting and increased acts of worship.
“By virtue of the powers conferred under the Public Holidays Act, the Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration declares Wednesday, May 27, a public holiday to celebrate Eid-ul-Adha,” the Gazette Notice stated.
Eid-ul-Adha differs from Eid-ul-Fitr, which marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan. The festival commemorates the devotion and obedience of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), who was willing to sacrifice his son, Ishmael, in fulfillment of God’s command before God provided a ram to be sacrificed instead.
As part of the celebrations, Muslims perform the ritual sacrifice of animals such as goats, sheep, cattle, and camels. The animals must be healthy and free from defects. While a goat or sheep is offered on behalf of one person, a cow or camel may be shared among seven people.
Traditionally, the meat from the sacrificed animal is divided into three portions: one for the family, another for the poor and needy, and the third for relatives, friends, and neighbors. The practice symbolizes charity, compassion, and the sharing of blessings with the wider community.
The announcement paves the way for Muslims across Kenya to join millions of believers around the world in observing the sacred occasion through prayers, sacrifice, and acts of generosity.Happy day for islams
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