Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i on Wednesday, July 29, declared Friday, July 31, a public holiday.
In a statement sent to newsrooms, Matiang’i stated that Friday would mark the celebration of Idd-Ul-Adha.
“In recognition of the vital role of faith as a unifying force within our Nation, and cognisant that religious and cultural diversity are at the core of our national identity; Friday, July 31, 2020 has been designated as a Public Holiday of General Observance throughout the territory of the Republic of Kenya in celebration of Idd-ul-Adha,” reads the statement in part.
Eid ul-Adhaa is an Islamic festival to commemorate the willingness of Abraham to follow Allah’s (God’s) command to sacrifice his son.
Eid ul-Adha marks the end of Hajj, the annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca.
It is one of the two Eid celebrations – Eid ul-Adha and Eid ul-Fitr – and is often considered the holier of the two.
During the festival, Muslims around the world will gather to mark one of the holiest days in the religious calendar.
Large groups get together to pray while enjoying feasts and wearing their best clothing.
Traditionally, the festival lasts for four days but public holidays vary around the world – with Arab countries observing a nine-day public holiday.
During the festival, friends and family gather together to exchange gifts and money and eat traditional food.
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It is a tradition to give gifts and be given new clothes during Eid ul-Adha. Sacrifice is a huge part of the tradition.
In some countries, families buy, keep and slaughter their own animals.
Islamic rules state the animal must be in good health and an adult.
The meat from the sacrificed animal is traditionally divided into three parts.
A third is kept by the family, a third is given to friends and relatives, and a third is donated to the poor.
