President Ruto sends Eid-al-Adha greetings to Muslim community

President William Ruto has conveyed heartfelt Eid al-Adha wishes to Kenya’s Muslim community as they join fellow believers worldwide in marking the occasion on Friday, June 6, 2025.

In his message, Ruto said: "As you observe this sacred festival following the Day of Arafah and the pilgrimage of Hajj, may the Almighty accept your sacrifices and bless you with peace and joy."

The President highlighted the values of sacrifice, devotion, and compassion that underpin the Eid al-Adha celebration, encouraging all Kenyans to uphold these principles in pursuit of unity and national development.

Eid al-Adha, also known as the Feast of Sacrifice, is one of the most sacred days in the Islamic calendar.

It falls on the 10th day of Dhul-Hijja, the last month of the Islamic lunar calendar, and coincides with the third day of the annual Hajj pilgrimage.

The festival honors Prophet Ibrahim’s deep faith and obedience to God when he was willing to sacrifice his son, only for God to intervene and provide a ram in his place.

This powerful act of devotion continues to embody the core message of Eid.

To honour the celebration, the government declared June 6 a public holiday.

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen made the announcement via a special gazette notice, allowing Muslim faithful the opportunity to observe their religious rites and traditions.

In the days before Eid, Muslim families prepare by cleaning their homes, purchasing new clothes, and getting ready for the celebrations.

On the morning of Eid, believers gather in large numbers at mosques and open spaces for communal prayers.

A central tradition of the day is Qurbani the ritual slaughter of a sheep, goat, or cow by those who are able.

The meat is shared in three parts: one portion for the household, one for friends and relatives, and one for the needy, underscoring the values of charity and community.