The announcement was made through a Gazette notice dated Monday, May 25, confirming that the country will observe the day as part of the annual Islamic celebrations commemorated by Muslims across the world.
In the notice, the Cabinet Secretary stated that the declaration had been made under powers granted by the Public Holidays Act.
“It is notified for the general information of the public that, in exercise of the powers conferred by section 3 (1) of the Public Holidays Act, the Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration declares that, Wednesday, the 27th May, 2026, shall be a public holiday to mark Eid-ul-Adha,” the notice states.
The declaration means Kenyans will have a midweek break as Muslim faithful join millions around the globe in observing one of the most significant festivals in the Islamic calendar.
Eid-ul-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son in obedience to God’s command before being provided with a ram as a substitute.
The celebration is marked by prayers, charitable giving, family gatherings, and the sharing of meals among communities.
Across Kenya, preparations for the celebrations had already begun in several towns with large Muslim populations, including Mombasa, Garissa, Isiolo, Mandera, and parts of Nairobi.
Mosques are expected to host special prayers early Wednesday morning as worshippers gather to mark the occasion.
The public holiday announcement is also expected to affect operations in both public and private institutions, with government offices, schools, and many businesses set to remain closed for the day.
Essential services, however, are expected to continue operating as usual.
The gazettement of the holiday comes as many Kenyans continue to monitor the government calendar closely following recent national events and public observances.
The declaration now officially adds another public holiday to the 2026 calendar.
Leaders from different sectors have continued to send goodwill messages to the Muslim community ahead of the celebrations, emphasizing unity, peace, and coexistence among Kenyans of different faiths.