President William Ruto has extended heartfelt greetings to Muslims in Kenya and worldwide as they commence the holy month of Ramadan, urging the community to embrace generosity, compassion, and collective responsibility in advancing national unity.
In a statement on Wednesday, President Ruto described Ramadan as a period for spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and strengthened communal ties.
“Ramadan Mubarak to our Muslim brothers and sisters. May this sacred month of fasting, prayer, reflection, and generosity renew your strength, bring peace to your hearts, deepen compassion, and strengthen the unity, solidarity, and shared purpose that guide Kenya forward,” he said.
The President highlighted that the principles observed during Ramadan—patience, giving, and care for others—resonate with Kenya’s ambitions for social cohesion and development. He called on citizens to use this season as an opportunity to reinforce shared values and nurture understanding across communities.
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is celebrated with daily fasting from dawn to dusk, increased prayers, and acts of charity. The exact timing of the month depends on the sighting of the crescent moon, meaning the start date may vary across countries and Islamic communities.
Fasting is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, alongside the declaration of faith, prayer, charity, and pilgrimage. Observing the fast is regarded as a form of devotion and submission to God, allowing believers to cultivate patience, empathy, and spiritual growth.
This year, Ramadan coincides with Lent, the Christian period of fasting and reflection, a rare overlap that has attracted curiosity among followers of both faiths. The occurrence results from the different systems used by Islamic and Christian calendars, which occasionally align due to shifting dates each year.
Ahead of Ramadan, the government on January 28 approved the duty-free importation of dates to ease the cost for Muslims preparing to observe the fast, reinforcing the season’s spirit of generosity.
Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims national chairman Hassan Ole Naado urged followers to remember gratitude, citing the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
“He who does not thank people, does not thank Allah,” he said, emphasizing that appreciating goodwill strengthens faith and promotes harmony within society.
