Murkomen Declares Wednesday A Public Holiday

The government has officially declared Wednesday, May 27, 2026, a public holiday to allow the Muslim community to celebrate Eid-ul-Adha.

In a Gazette notice published on Monday, May 25, Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen confirmed the declaration under the provisions of the Public Holidays Act.

“It is notified for the general information of the public that, in exercise of the powers conferred by section 3 (1) of the Public Holidays Act, the Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration declares that, Wednesday, the 27th May, 2026, shall be a public holiday to mark Eid-ul-Adha,” the notice reads.

Understanding the Festival of Sacrifice

Eid-ul-Adha, colloquially known as the Festival of Sacrifice, stands as one of the two most significant pillars of celebration on the Islamic calendar, alongside Eid-ul-Fitr.

The holiday is observed on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah—the twelfth and final month of the Islamic lunar calendar. It coincides with the conclusion of the annual Hajj pilgrimage in the holy city of Mecca, Saudi Arabia. Because Islamic months depend strictly on the sighting of the crescent moon, the government issues a specific annual proclamation rather than keeping a static calendar date.

The festival honors the profound devotion of Prophet Ibrahim, who demonstrated an unwavering willingness to sacrifice his son, Ismail, in submission to Allah’s command. Islamic tradition holds that Almighty Allah intervened at the final moment, substituting a ram in place of the child.

How the Day is Commemorated

Muslims across Kenya will observe the day through:

• Communal Prayers: Gathering in large congregations at mosques and open grounds early Wednesday morning.

• The Act of Qurbani: Ritual slaughter of healthy livestock (sheep, goats, cows, or camels) adhering strictly to halal guidelines.

• Charity and Feast: Distributing portions of the sacrificial meat to the less fortunate, family members, and neighbors to foster community solidarity.

A Season of Holidays for Kenyans

The mid-week break offers a welcome breather for the country’s workforce, kicking off a season of national holidays.

Exactly one week later, the country will mark Madaraka Day on Monday, June 1. Attention is already shifting to Wajir County, the designated host for this year’s national celebrations. According to an inspection update issued on May 21 by Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo, construction at the primary venue, Wajir Stadium, is currently at 84 percent completion as teams race against time to ready the facility.