NAIROBI, Kenya — The Government of Kenya has officially declared Wednesday, May 27, 2026, a national public holiday to mark the celebration of Eid ul-Adha, one of the most important events in the Islamic calendar.
The announcement was made through a Special Gazette Notice issued by Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, giving Muslims across the country an opportunity to observe the religious holiday with family, prayer, and charitable activities.
Eid ul-Adha 2026 in Kenya
Eid ul-Adha, commonly referred to as the Festival of Sacrifice, commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God’s command before a ram was provided in his place.
The celebration is widely observed through:
- Special Eid prayers held in mosques and designated prayer grounds
- Qurbani (sacrifice) of livestock such as goats, sheep, or cows
- Sharing meals and donations with relatives, neighbors, and vulnerable families
- Community gatherings and acts of charity
The holiday is expected to be celebrated nationwide, especially in regions with large Muslim communities including Mombasa, Nairobi, Garissa, Isiolo, and Lamu.
How the Public Holiday Will Affect Kenyans
Government Offices and Public Services
Most government offices, huduma centers, and public institutions will remain closed on Wednesday, May 27, 2026. Essential services such as security, emergency response, and healthcare operations will continue uninterrupted.
Normal government operations are expected to resume on Thursday, May 28, 2026.
Schools and Learning Institutions
Public and private schools across Kenya will observe the public holiday. Parents and guardians are encouraged to confirm transport schedules and reopening arrangements directly with their respective schools.
Colleges and universities may also adjust academic activities depending on institutional calendars.
Banking and Financial Services During the Holiday
Most physical bank branches will remain closed during the Eid ul-Adha public holiday. However, customers will still have access to essential digital financial services, including:
- Mobile banking apps
- Internet banking platforms
- ATM services
- USSD banking
- Mobile money services such as M-Pesa and Airtel Money
Important Advisory for Businesses
Businesses and individuals with scheduled payments, bank clearances, payroll processing, or statutory deadlines are advised to complete transactions before Tuesday evening to avoid delays caused by the holiday closure.
Public Holiday Rules for Employers in Kenya
Employers operating essential services, retail businesses, hospitality establishments, or transport operations during the holiday are reminded to comply with Kenya’s labor laws.
Under the Employment Act, employees required to work on a gazetted public holiday may be entitled to:
- Overtime or public holiday compensation
- Alternative off-days
- Additional benefits outlined in employment contracts or company policies
Businesses are encouraged to communicate work schedules clearly in advance.
Security and Travel Expectations
Security agencies are expected to increase patrols and surveillance in major towns, prayer grounds, transport hubs, and public gathering areas to ensure peaceful celebrations.
Kenyans traveling during the holiday period are advised to plan early due to possible increases in traffic and public transport demand, especially along major highways and routes leading to coastal and northeastern regions.
Eid Mubarak to All Muslims in Kenya
The declaration of the public holiday offers millions of Kenyans an opportunity to celebrate, reconnect with family, and participate in acts of compassion and generosity.
We wish all Muslims in Kenya and around the world a peaceful and blessed Eid Mubarak.