President William Ruto has extended a warm message of goodwill to the Muslim community in Kenya as they join the global ummah in celebrating Eid-ul-Adha on Friday, June 6, 2025.

In his statement, Ruto said:
“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 acknowledged the spirit of sacrifice, devotion, and compassion that defines the celebration and urged Kenyans to embrace these values for national harmony and progress.

Sacred festival observed

Eid-ul-Adha, often called the Feast of Sacrifice, is one of the holiest days in Islam.

It is observed on the 10th day of Dhul-Hijja, the final month of the Islamic lunar calendar, and aligns with the third day of the annual Hajj pilgrimage.

The festival commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s unwavering faith and obedience when he prepared to sacrifice his son at God’s command, only for God to provide a ram instead.

This act of submission remains at the heart of the Eid message.

pic.twitter.com/zQ18HOEqC0

— William Samoei Ruto, PhD (@WilliamsRuto) June 6, 2025

To mark the occasion, the government declared June 6 a public holiday.

The announcement was made through a special gazette notice by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, giving the Muslim faithful time to observe their sacred traditions.

Rituals and reflection

In the days leading up to Eid, Muslim families clean their homes, buy new clothes, and prepare for festivities.

On Eid morning, worshippers gather for communal prayers at mosques and open grounds.

A key ritual of the day is Qurbani, the sacrifice of a sheep, goat, or cow by those who can afford it.

The meat is divided into three parts: one for the family, one for relatives and friends, and one for the less fortunate, emphasizing generosity and social responsibility.

The rest of the day is filled with visits to loved ones, sharing meals, and spreading cheer.

As Kenyans join Muslims around the world in marking this special day, Ruto’s message echoes the broader call for peace, reflection, and unity during Eid-ul-Adha.