Eid-ul-Adha: Ruto sends special message to Muslim community

President William Ruto has sent a message of goodwill to the Muslim community in the country as they celebrate Eid-ul-Adha on Friday.

“As you celebrate the blessed occasion of Eid al-Adha, following the sacred day of Arafah and the pilgrimage of Hajj. May Allah Almighty accept your sacrifices and reward you with peace and happiness”, the President said in his message.

Eid-ul- also known as the Feast of Sacrifice, is one of the most significant holidays in the Islamic calendar. It is observed on the third day of Hajj, which falls on the 10th of Dhul-Hijja, the 12th and final month of the Islamic calendar.

It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son in obedience to God’s command, before God provided a ram to sacrifice instead.

The government officially declared this day a public holiday.

Through a special gazette notice, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen announced the holiday, allowing the Muslim community to celebrate their second-holiest festival of the year.

What happens during Eid al-Adha?

In the days leading up to Eid al-Adha, Muslims prepare by preparing their homes, buying new clothes and planning special meals for the occasion.

On the first day of Eid, those who are financially able are required to sacrifice an animal – usually a sheep, goat, cow, or camel – and distribute a portion of the meat to the less fortunate. This act commemorates the Prophet Abraham’s (Ibrahim) willingness to sacrifice his son Ishmail (Ismael) in obedience to God.

The rest of the holiday is spent visiting family and friends, exchanging greetings and gifts, and sharing festive meals.