President Ruto sends message of goodwill to Muslims as Ramadan begins
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is regarded as the holiest period for Muslims.
As Muslims across the country prepare to observe the holy month of Ramadan, President William Ruto has sent a message of goodwill, urging them to embrace faith, self-discipline and acts of charity.
In a recorded video released on Friday, Ruto noted the spiritual significance of Ramadan, calling on Muslims to use the period for personal reflection and devotion.
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"This is an opportunity for you to commit yourselves to strengthening faith and committing to do that which is right," he said.
The President highlighted the importance of fasting, prayer, and good deeds, noting that faith plays a crucial role in fostering unity and strengthening communities.
He also praised the Muslim community for their contributions to the country and encouraged them to continue supporting the less fortunate.
Holiest period for Muslims
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is regarded as the holiest period for Muslims.
It commemorates the revelation of the Quran to Prophet Muhammad and is observed through fasting, prayer, and self-restraint.
During this time, Muslims refrain from eating, drinking, smoking, and sinful behaviour from dawn until sunset.
The fast is seen as a form of spiritual discipline and an opportunity to develop empathy for the less privileged.
As part of their devotion, many Muslims engage in special prayers, including Taraweeh, and dedicate more time to reading the Quran.
The month concludes with Eid al-Fitr, a day of celebration marked by communal prayers, charity (Zakat al-Fitr), and family gatherings.
This year, Ramadan is expected to begin on February 28 and end on March 30.
Duty-free dates imports
In support of the Muslim community, President Ruto recently approved the duty-free importation of dates for use during Ramadan.
This followed a request by the Supreme Council of Kenyan Muslims, which had appealed for certain customs fees to be waived.
A response letter signed by Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi confirmed that the government had agreed to cover import duty and VAT on dates brought into the country for Ramadan, as full tax exemption was not legally possible.
The government also granted an exemption from the Import Declaration Form (IDF) and the Railway Development Levy (RDL) for the same imports.
"By a copy of this letter, the National Chairman of the Supreme Council of Kenyan Muslims is requested to furnish the Commissioner with the necessary documentation for customs clearance," the letter stated.
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