Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has declared Friday, March 20, a public holiday to mark the Muslim celebration of Idd-ul-Fitr.
The announcement, made on Wednesday, March 18, confirms that the holiday will give Muslims and other Kenyans an opportunity to participate in festivities marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan.
The declaration was issued under the Public Holidays Act, formally designating March 20, 2026, as a national holiday in observance of Idd-ul-Fitr.
Murkomen announces March 20 as a public holiday to mark Idd-ul-Fitr in Kenya. Photo: Courtesy.
Idd-ul-Fitr is celebrated on the first day of Shawwal, the month that follows Ramadan in the Islamic calendar.
The exact date is determined by the sighting of the new moon, meaning it can vary slightly depending on location each year.
The holiday marks the end of Ramadan, a sacred month of fasting, and is observed as a time of gratitude to Allah for the strength, patience, and discipline shown throughout the period.
In Kenya, celebrations begin early with special Eid prayers held in mosques and open grounds, bringing together large gatherings of the Muslim community.
Before the prayers, Muslims give Zakat al-Fitr by donating food or money to those in need, ensuring that everyone can take part in the festivities.
It is also customary to wear new or clean clothes, apply perfume, and exchange the greeting “Eid Mubarak,” meaning “Blessed Eid.”
The day is further marked by visits to family and friends, reinforcing social ties and community unity.
Food plays a central role in the celebrations, with families preparing and sharing special dishes such as pilau and biryani with guests and neighbors after the month-long fast.
