• On Wednesday, March 18, 2026, Murkomen issued a Special Gazette Notice No. 3955, invoking Section 2(1) of the Public Holidays Act. The notice states: “Friday, the 20th March, 2026 shall be a Public Holiday to mark Idd-ul-Fitr.”

Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary (CS) Kipchumba Murkomen has declared Friday, March 20, 2026 a public holiday to mark Idd-ul-Fitr, giving Kenyans a long weekend at the close of Ramadan.

On Wednesday, March 18, 2026, Murkomen issued a Special Gazette Notice No. 3955, invoking Section 2(1) of the Public Holidays Act. The notice states: “Friday, the 20th March, 2026 shall be a Public Holiday to mark Idd-ul-Fitr.”

Special Gazette Notice No. 3955, invoking Section 2(1) of the Public Holidays Act

A Nation in Celebration

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Idd-ul-Fitr, the Festival of Breaking the Fast, crowns the month‑long Ramadan. Across Kenya, Muslims will gather for Salat al-Eid prayers, extend Zakat al-Fitr charity, and share festive meals with family and friends.

The holiday also delivers a long weekend. With Saturday following immediately, workers and families gain three consecutive days to celebrate, rest, and reconnect.

Contrast with Past Years

This year’s clarity stands in sharp contrast to March 2023, when a forged gazette notice sparked confusion over a supposed political holiday. Murkomen’s 2026 declaration leaves no doubt: the day honors faith, reflection, and unity.

The Meaning of Eid

Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, commemorates the revelation of the Quran to Prophet Muhammad. Eid marks the end of fasting, prayer, and self‑reflection. 

On the morning of Eid, Muslims gather shortly after sunrise for communal prayers that unite neighborhoods and entire communities in a spirit of devotion.

Before stepping into prayer, every Muslim fulfills the obligation of Zakat al-Fitr, a charitable act that uplifts the less fortunate and ensures inclusivity in the celebration.

Families then break bread together, sharing festive meals rich with traditional delicacies and sweets that symbolize joy and abundance.

Children receive “Eidi”—small gifts that add excitement and warmth to the day, while adults often dress in new clothes to mark renewal and fresh beginnings.

Importantly, fasting is forbidden on Eid, a deliberate return to normal eating that underscores the transition from self-denial to gratitude and celebration. Together, these traditions weave a tapestry of faith, generosity, and community that defines the essence of Eid.

nax.today wishes you a joyful and blessed Idd-ul-Fitr. May this day of prayer, charity, and celebration bring renewal, unity, and peace to all who observe.

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