Environment Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has thanked President William Ruto for approving the duty-free importation of dates throughout the month of Ramadan.
In a statement on Monday, February 24, Duale stated that Ruto's decision demonstrated his commitment to fostering inclusivity, regardless of religious affiliations.
"We extend our heartfelt gratitude to President William Ruto for the government's unwavering support and solidarity with Kenya's Muslim community through the importation of duty-free dates for this year's Holy Month of Ramadan, set to begin on March 1," Duale stated.
"This noble initiative eases access to this essential fruit for Iftar and further reflects the government's commitment to fostering religious inclusivity and national unity."
President Ruto's approval follows a request by the Supreme Council of Kenyan Muslims to the government to have certain customs fees on dates waived during the Ramadhan period.
In a response letter signed by Treasury CS John Mbadi, the government agreed to two of the requests including paying the import duty and VAT of dates being imported for use during the month of Ramadhan as there is no provision for granting tax exemption as requested.
The second assurance given by the government was an exemption from the Import Declaration Form (IDF) and the Railway Development Levy (RDL) for dates imported for use during the same period.
"By a copy of this letter, the National Chairman of the Supreme Council of Kenyan Muslims is requested to furnish the Commissioner with the necessary documentation for customs clearance," the letter concluded.
Ramadan is the ninth month in the Islamic calendar, during which Muslims around the world focus on prayer, fasting, giving to charity, and religious devotion.
The last third of Ramadan is a particularly holy period, as it commemorates when the Qur'an’s first verses were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (Mohammad or Muhammed).
During this period, Muslims often break their fasts with dates, following the example of the Prophet Muhammad and the Abrahamic tradition. The fruits provide instant energy, essential nutrients, hydration, promote digestive health, and contain anti-inflammatory compounds.
The tentative dates for the 2025 Ramadan period are set to be from March 1, lasting a whole month, culminating in a ceremony known as Eid al-Fitr on March 30 or 31.
