The government has gazetted next Saturday, July 18, as a public holiday to mark Eid al-Fitr. In a gazette notice published on July 7, Interior Cabinet Secretary Joseph Nkaissery declared July 18 a public holiday.
“It is notified for general information that Saturday July 18, will be observed as a public holiday,” reads the notice. All Kenyans will join Muslims across the world to mark the Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadhan.
During the month of Ramadhan, Muslims observe a strict fast and participate in pious activities such as charitable giving and peace-making. It is a time of intense spiritual renewal for those who observe it.
At the end of Ramadan, Muslims throughout the world observe a joyous three-day celebration called Eid al-Fitr (the Festival of Fast-Breaking). On the day of Idd, many Muslims attend communal prayers, listen to a khutba (sermon) and give zakat al-fitr (charity in the form of food).
