Government declares Friday public holiday to mark Eid-ul-Fitr

Government declares Friday public holiday to mark Eid-ul-Fitr

Government declares Friday public holiday to mark Eid-ul-Fitr

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Kenya has declared Friday, March 20, 2026, a public holiday to mark Eid-ul-Fitr, with major markets in Mombasa and Nairobi reporting a surge in festive shopping activity

The government has declared Friday, March 20, 2026, a nationwide public holiday to mark Eid-ul-Fitr.
The announcement was made through a Kenya Gazette notice dated March 18, 2026.
“It is notified for the general information of the public that, in exercise of the powers conferred by section 2(1) of the Public Holidays Act, the Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration declares that Friday, the 20th March, 2026, shall be a Public Holiday to mark Eid-ul-Fitr,” reads the notice issued by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen.

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Eid-ul-Fitr is a significant three-day Islamic festival that marks the end of Ramadan.
The celebration is typically observed with special prayers, wearing new clothes, acts of charity through Zakat al-Fitr, and shared meals with family.
It is recognised as a public holiday in many regions, including Kenya.

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In Mombasa, major markets such as Kongowea and Mackinnon, popularly known as Marikiti, are experiencing a surge in activity.
Traders have expanded their displays onto adjacent streets, offering clothing, shoes, and household goods, while shopping complexes are reporting unusually long queues.
A similar trend is evident in Nairobi, particularly in Eastleigh.
This surge reflects a broader global pattern of increased retail activity leading up to Eid, with demand rising for religious attire and gifts.
Retailers are intensifying promotions, offering exclusive deals and discounts, while small traders are using social media platforms like TikTok to market limited-time offers directly to customers, further driving the festive shopping rush.

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