This archive report was first published on 18 November 2019.
Published on November 18, 2019, Muslims in Kenya are facing a challenge as they travel by train, with many missing their daily prayers due to the lack of prayer rooms at standard gauge railway (SGR) stations.
According to Islamic laws, Muslims are required to pray five times a day. However, when urgent journeys arise, and they are forced to travel by rail, they often miss their prayers until they reach their destination.
Kenya Muslims National Advisory Council (Kemnac) chairman Juma Ngao emphasized the importance of adapting the practice seen at airports, where designated areas are set aside for conducting prayers.
“According to Islamic laws, one is supposed to pray five times a day. We suffer in case an urgent journey comes up and you forced to travel by rail, you cannot pray until you get to your destination,” said Mr Ngao.
Passengers like Ali Kombo and Ali Barre have shared their experiences of missing prayers due to the lack of prayer rooms. Mr Kombo urged that something needs to be done, while Mr Barre expressed disappointment that a terminus with many amenities lacks a prayer room.
Kenya Railways Corporate Affairs Manager Margaret Kawira suggested that the heads of the Muslim community should write a letter to the managing director to request the establishment of prayer rooms.
