End of Ramadan 2026: Friday, March 20, Declared a Public Holiday to Mark Idd-ul-Fitr
The Government of Kenya has formally declared Friday, March 20, 2026, a nationwide public holiday to observe Idd-ul-Fitr. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen issued the directive through a special Gazette Notice No. 3955, invoking the authority granted under Section 2(1) of the Public Holidays Act. This declaration ensures that all citizens have the opportunity to join the Muslim community in marking the conclusion of the holy month of Ramadan.
The holiday signifies the start of the Islamic month of Shawwal and the end of the dawn-to-dusk fasting period that began in mid-February. According to the Acting Chief Kadhi, Sukyan Hassan Omar, the National Moon Sighting Committee will convene at the Kadhi’s Court in Nairobi this evening, Thursday, March 19, to receive and verify reports of the crescent moon sighting. This tradition remains central to determining the precise timing of the festivities, which are expected to commence early Friday morning with communal prayers across the country.
Idd-ul-Fitr, often referred to as the “Festival of Breaking the Fast,” is a time of deep spiritual significance, gratitude, and community bonding. The day typically begins with Salat al-Eid, special congregational prayers held in mosques and open fields (Musallas). A vital component of the celebration is Zakat al-Fitr, a mandatory act of charity where food or money is distributed to the less fortunate before the morning prayers to ensure that everyone can participate in the festivities.
In a show of solidarity leading up to the holiday, President William Ruto’s administration implemented a waiver on the Import Declaration Fee and the Railway Development Levy for dates imported specifically for the Ramadan period. This move, which was highly appreciated by the Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims (SUPKEM), aimed to make the essential fruit more accessible to families throughout the month of devotion. The waiver period is set to conclude alongside the holiday on March 20.
As Kenyans prepare for a three-day long weekend, economic activity is peaking in major hubs like Eastleigh in Nairobi and Old Town in Mombasa. Families are gathering for traditional meals and the exchange of gifts, reinforcing social ties after a month of discipline. However, the Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a cautionary advisory, forecasting intensified heavy rainfall beginning this evening and continuing through the weekend.
The “Met” agency predicts peak rainfall conditions between March 20 and March 23, with significant risks of flash flooding in several regions, including the Nairobi metropolitan area and parts of Western Kenya. Citizens are encouraged to celebrate responsibly and remain vigilant of weather-related hazards while traveling or attending outdoor prayer sessions. The public holiday provides a timely opportunity for reconciliation and community building, reflecting the core Islamic values of compassion and unity.