Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i has declared Friday, 15th June 2018 a public holiday.
With the Islamic holy month of Ramadan drawing to a close, Matiang'i explained that the move was meant to accord all Kenyans an opportunity to prepare for Idd-Ul-Fitr.
Idd-Ul-Fitr will be marked on Saturday, 16th June, 2018.
"In exercise of powers conferred by the Section 3 of the Public Holidays Act, Friday, the 15th June 2018 shall be a Public Holiday in order to accord all Kenyans and persons who profess the Islamic faith the opportunity to make preparations to mark Idd-Ul-Fitr on Saturday, 16th June 2018," a statement from Matiangi's office read in part.
Muslims across the globe began marking Ramadan on Wednesday, 16th May.
[caption caption="Muslims praying outside Masjid Noor mosque in Nairobi"]
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It is occasioned by worship, acts of self-sacrifice including daily fasting from sunrise to sunset and special prayers.
Non-obligatory charity, self-reflection and self-improvement are also highly encouraged in this period.
Ramadan is officially over when a specific sighting of the crescent moon is made.
During eid, fasting is forbidden as it is considered a day of celebration and remembrance of God.
The actual Eid ul Fitr is one day, but in many Muslim countries, offices may close for up to a week
Many Kenyans, non-Muslims included, had taken to social media seeking to have Friday declared a holiday.
[caption caption="The press statement from the Ministry of Interior"]
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