Festive mood as Muslims prepare to end fast

Preparations for this year’s Idd ul Fitr are advanced as the holy month of Ramadhan ends either on Thursday or Friday, depending on the sighting of the moon.

Thousands of worshippers thronged stores, supermarkets, vegetable markets and butcheries to buy food.

Acting Chief Kadhi Sheikh Moudhar Ahmed urged the government to gazette the day to give Kenyan Muslims a chance to enjoy the festival after successfully observing the holy month.

“I have written to the Head of Public Service, Mr Francis Muthaura, to make the Idd celebration a public holiday and we expect him to communicate this through the Kenya Gazette,” Sheikh Ahmed said on Monday.

East African Muslims began observing Ramadhan on August 12.

Ramadhan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is considered one of the holiest months of the year.

The holy season begins with the sighting of the crescent moon on the evening following the new moon and lasts 29 or 30 days, depending on the lunar cycle.

According to the Koran, Muslims are required to start the fast only after sighting the new moon.

Fasting is meant to teach Muslim patience, humility and spirituality.

Idd-ul-Fitr marks the end of the month of fasting and is marked by feasting and celebrating.