Muslims at Masjid Al-Abrar in Garissa Ndogo during prayers, the residents have complained of tough economic situation, thus doing small celebrations to mark the day. Photo: Adan Duale.
Muslim faithful across the global marked the Eid ul Adha celebrations, a major Muslim celebration according to Islamic religion and customs, as it reminds Muslims of Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion and calls to acts of faith, sacrifice and compassion.
Joining their colleagues in marking the day, Marsabit residents expressed mixed reactions on the state of the economy in the country. Speaking with ISFA Media, residents expressed their varied opinion, with businessmen saying they experienced low purchases by residents to mark the day.
“Things today have been slow, many shops are closed, but we join our Muslim brothers in marking the day and live in peace. This has been different as compared with other years,” Eric Muchemi said.
However, a section of residents stated that bad policies have contributed to the current tough economy situation in the country, urging their people not to overspend on a day celebration, but spare resources for the coming days.
“We are celebrating because we want to thank God, but our pockets are crying considering the current economic situation. As a parent I cannot consume everything on a day, but spare some incase my child is send back home, I will also urge fellow parents to do the same, do not overspend today,” Joshua said.
As an important Islamic celebration, a section of residents said that the harsh economic time cannot hinder them from marking and celebrating the big day, as the economic situation is similar to 2024, thus they must celebrate.
“We are happy it’s Eid, it is just like previous years, business is moving but as compared to last year celebrations, this year there is no flow of money, people are managing but we must celebrate,” Daniel Diba a taxi driver said.
Health Cabinet Secretary (CS) Aden Duale joined thousands of Muslim faithful, religious and community leaders at Masjid Al-Abrar in Garissa Ndogo for Eid ul Adha prayers.
Addressing the residents after prayers, Duale urged all Kenyans to register with the Social Health Authority (SHA) to reduce out-of-pocket health costs, a major burden for many families.
