Nairobi News

The Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration, Kithure Kindiki, has officially declared Wednesday, June 28, a public holiday to commemorate Eid-Ul-Adha (Idd-Ul-Azha). The announcement was made in a Special Gazette Notice issued on Monday, in accordance with the Public Holidays Act.

In the statement, CS Kindiki stated, “It is notified for the general information of the public that in exercise of the powers conferred by section 2 (2) and part II of the schedule, as read with section 3 of the Public Holidays Act, the Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration declares that Wednesday, June 28, 2023, shall be a public holiday to mark Eid-Ul-Adha (Idd-Ul-Azha).”

The decision to recognize this significant Islamic holiday was met with praise from various quarters, including Defence CS Aden Duale. He commended CS Kindiki for acknowledging the holiday and making the official proclamation.

According to section 3 of the Public Holidays Act, dates determined in accordance with the Hindu Calendar are to be declared public holidays for all individuals belonging to the Hindu faith.

This public holiday provides an opportunity for Muslim faithful in Kenya to observe and celebrate Eid-Ul-Adha (Idd-Ul-Azha) in accordance with their religious traditions. It also promotes cultural diversity and unity among Kenyan citizens.

As the nation prepares to mark this auspicious occasion, Muslims are encouraged to utilize this holiday to strengthen family bonds, engage in acts of charity, and foster community solidarity.

Eid-ul-Adha, also known as the Feast of Sacrifice or Bakra Eid, is an important Islamic festival celebrated by Muslims around the world. It commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God, as mentioned in the Quran. However, at the last moment, God provided a lamb to be sacrificed instead.

Eid-ul-Adha is observed on the 10th day of the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah, following the completion of the annual pilgrimage to Mecca called Hajj. It is a time of great significance and joy for Muslims.

The festival involves several rituals and practices. Muslims begin the day with congregational prayers at the mosque, wearing their finest attire. After the prayers, a sermon is delivered, highlighting the significance of sacrifice, obedience, and devotion to God.

One of the central rituals of Eid-ul-Adha is the sacrifice of an animal, typically a goat, sheep, cow, or camel, symbolizing Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son. The meat from the sacrificed animal is divided into three parts: one-third is consumed by the immediate family, one-third is shared with friends and relatives, and one-third is donated to the less fortunate.

Eid-ul-Adha is a time for Muslims to come together, strengthen community bonds, and show generosity towards others. It is customary to give gifts and provide assistance to those in need. Families and friends gather to enjoy festive meals and celebrate the occasion with joy and gratitude.

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