Eid al-Adha

Uganda declares Tuesday Public Holiday to mark Eid-al-Adha

The government of Uganda has declared Tuesday July 20th 2021 as a public holiday to mark this year’s Eid al-Adha celebration.

This was disclosed in an official announcement by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Public Service, Catherine Bitarakwate Musingwiire.

“The Honourable Minister of Public Service informs the general public that Tuesday 20th July 2021 is Eid al-Adha and will be observed as Public Holiday throughout Uganda,” Ms. Bitarakwate wrote.

She said the day will be observed from home over Coronavirus containment protocols.

Eid al-Adha is one of two Eids, or days of celebration for Muslims worldwide, in a year. It coincides with the completion of the Hajj, which millions of people partake in every year.

Islamic scripture tells how Allah commanded Ibrahim – known as Abraham to Christians and Jews – to sacrifice his son Ismail as a test of his devotion. Despite his love for the boy, Ibrahim duly prepared to carry out Allah’s command.

However, at the last moment, Allah tells Ibrahim to spare the child and sacrifice something else instead. In remembrance of Ibrahim’s willingness to submit himself to the divine will, Muslim families traditionally sacrifice an animal during Eid al-Adha.