National

Leaders extend warm wishes to Muslims as Ramadan begins

President William Ruto at a past event. (Photo: File/PSC)

By Lucy Mumbi | Monday, March 11, 2024

Ruto acknowledged the crucial role of faith in enhancing various aspects of life and expressed appreciation for the contributions of religious institutions to the country's progress, particularly in the education and health sectors.

President William Ruto has extended a message of goodwill to Muslims as they begin the Holy month of Ramadan.

The new moon was sighted in several Middle Eastern countries, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates on Sunday.

Keep reading

Posting on his X account on Monday, President William Ruto underscored the significance of Ramadan, emphasising selfless sacrifice, charity, piety, and discipline as expressions of faith.

“Muslims complement the government’s efforts to enhance peaceful coexistence, inter-faith dialogue, and unity within and between communities. Therefore, they invite all of us, as a nation united in submission to the Almighty God of All Creation, to appreciate the vital role of faith in positively enhancing various aspects of our lives,” he said.

Ruto acknowledged the crucial role of faith in enhancing various aspects of life and expressed appreciation for the contributions of religious institutions to the country's progress, particularly in the education and health sectors.

He also praised the Muslim community for their consistent positive contribution to Kenya's unity, stability, and development, expressing solidarity with them during Ramadan and wishing them blessings and success in their endeavours.

“I join all Kenyans, from all walks of life, throughout the nation, in expressing solidarity with Muslims, particularly as they strive to attain piety and righteousness through fasting, prayer, and other worthy acts during the holy month of Ramadan. May your sacrifices please God, and may you and your families be blessed abundantly.”

Kamukunji Member of Parliament Yusuf Hassan also urged Muslims to fast with sincerity, pray with devotion, and forgive with a generous heart.

“Wishing you a month filled with spiritual growth, reflection, and unity. May your days be filled with blessings and your nights be illuminated with the light of faith. Ramadan Mubarak! Fast, pray, give, forgive, and may this month be a source of peace and tranquillity for you and your loved ones,” he said.

Defence Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale added that the fast of Ramadan teaches patience, discipline, and empathy for the less fortunate.

“May this sacred month bring us closer to Allah and one another. May Allah accept our siyām, qiyām, and acts of worship,” he said.

As the community prepares for this period of spiritual reflection and devotion, mosques across the region are gearing up for increased attendance and engagement in religious activities.

Ramadan holds significant cultural and religious importance for Muslims worldwide, serving as a time of fasting, prayer, and introspection. It is a month characterised by acts of charity, compassion, and the strengthening of faith.

Major mosques in Eastleigh commenced hosting tarawih prayers (special non-obligatory long prayers done during Ramadan) on Sunday night in preparation for the fasting period.