Friday Declared a Public Holiday to Mark Idd-ul-Fitr

The government of Kenya has declared Friday, March 20, 2026, a public holiday. In a gazette notice on Wednesday, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen announced a public holiday to mark Idd-ul-Fitr, in accordance with Section 2(1) of the Public Holidays Act. “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 Friday, the 20th March, 2026, shall be a Public Holiday to mark Idd-ul-Fitr,” Murkomen said. The notice was issued under the Public Holidays Act (Cap. 110) and formally communicated to the public through Gazette Notice No. 3955. Idd-ul-Fitr (also known as Eid al-Fitr) is one of the most significant festivals in the Islamic calendar, marking the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting. Muslim faithfuls began Ramadhan on February 18, 2026. The holy month is marked by strict dawn-to-sunset fasting or saum for 29-30 days to foster self-discipline, God-consciousness or ‘taqwa’, and empathy. As the ninth month of the lunar calendar, it commemorates the revelation of the Quran to the Prophet Muhammad. Idd-ul-Fitr is one of the most important religious holidays observed by Muslims worldwide. It marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, a period of fasting, prayer and reflection. The festival is determined by the sighting of the new moon, which marks the start of the Islamic month of Shawwal. As a result, the exact date may vary between countries. On the morning of the celebration, Muslims gather for a special congregational prayer, usually held in mosques or open grounds shortly after sunrise. The festival begins with a special prayer held in congregation, followed by celebrations that include sharing meals, giving to charity and spending time with family and community. The holiday is recognised in Kenya as part of the country’s religious diversity, allowing Muslims to celebrate the occasion and conclude the month-long fast. It is also a time for forgiveness, generosity and strengthening community bonds after a month of fasting and devotion. The holiday emphasises gratitude after a month of discipline and devotion. It is also a time for reconciliation, as individuals are encouraged to mend relationships and seek forgiveness. In many countries, including Kenya, Idd-ul-Fitr is recognised as a public holiday, allowing Muslims to fully observe the occasion. The day highlights the values of compassion, equality and community, which are central to Islamic teachings.