Muslims across Kenya gathered in large numbers on Friday morning to observe Eid-ul-Adha, a significant religious festival celebrated by millions of Muslims worldwide.
In Nairobi’s Eastleigh, a hub of Muslim life in the capital, worshippers arrived at prayer grounds as early as 6 a.m., filling venues such as Eastleigh High School, Maina Wanjigi Secondary, Masjid Sahaba, and Zawadi Primary School.
At Eastleigh High School, the main prayer congregation attracted notable figures including Kamukunji MP Yusuf Hassan and Somalia’s Ambassador to Kenya, Jabril Ibrahim Abdulle, who joined thousands for Salat al-Eid, the traditional Eid prayer.
Security was visibly heightened with officers from Starehe Police Division ensuring smooth and peaceful proceedings. OCPD Wilson Muraya, who attended the event, praised the Eastleigh community for its cooperation and called for continued collaboration between residents and security agencies.
“There is no development without security,” he said. “Let’s work together to preserve the peace that allows us to grow as a community.”
In his post-prayer remarks, MP Yusuf Hassan encouraged the faithful to carry the spirit of Eid beyond the holiday, promoting peace, generosity, and solidarity, especially towards the less fortunate.
“We are blessed to live in a peaceful country. Let’s show our gratitude by helping each other and keeping that peace intact,” he said.
Ambassador Jabril echoed the MP’s message, emphasizing the strengthening ties between Kenya and Somalia and how peaceful coexistence benefits all communities in the region.
Leading the prayers was Imam Ahmed Abdiwahid, who reminded congregants of the religious significance of Eid-ul-Adha—commemorating Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God. He urged those with means to observe the ritual sacrifice (Qurbani) and share the meat with neighbors, the poor, and the vulnerable.
Eid-ul-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is celebrated on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah, the final month in the Islamic calendar. The festival coincides with the Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca and highlights the values of faith, sacrifice, and compassion.
From urban neighborhoods like Eastleigh to rural towns across Kenya, the day was marked by prayer, family gatherings, and the sharing of meat, reinforcing the sense of unity and generosity at the heart of the occasion.