This archive report was first published on 12 August 2019.
On August 12, 2019, Muslims gathered at Ronald Ngala Primary School grounds in Mombasa County to celebrate Eid Ul Adha special prayers.
President Uhuru Kenyatta's declaration of Monday as a national public holiday was welcomed by Muslims in Kilifi County, who noted that it was a clear commitment to fostering national cohesion.
According to Muhdhar Ahmed Badawy, a scholar in Kilifi County, Muslims should not take the honour for granted, as there are nations where the majority are Muslims and do not receive such recognition from their governments.
Badawy emphasized the need for Muslims to reflect on the importance of unity, peace, and love for all, regardless of their religious backgrounds.
"This is a day to send a message to all Muslims, Kenya and the whole world that Islam is a religion of love and peace," Badawy said.
Eid al-Adha, or the festival of the sacrifice, honours the willingness of Ibrahim to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God's command.
Badawy called on faithful to study Islamic religion to understand its teachings, which he believed would help end any differences or conflicts.
He also urged Muslims to divide their sacrifices into three shares: one for themselves, one for friends and neighbours, and one for the poor.
Other leaders, including Mahsen Shariff Albeity, who is in charge of Masjid Al Noor Mosque in Malindi, thanked President Kenyatta for honouring the Muslims and wished him long life for recognizing the Muslims.
