The Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) has officially announced that Eid al-Fitr will be celebrated on Friday after the crescent moon marking the beginning of Shawwal was not sighted.
The announcement, made on Wednesday evening, brings an end to anticipation among Muslims across the country who had been awaiting confirmation following the 29th day of Ramadan.
According to UMSC officials, verified reports from various parts of the country confirmed that the Shawwal crescent moon was not visible, necessitating the completion of 30 days of fasting.
Under Islamic tradition, the sighting of the new moon determines the end of Ramadan and the start of Eid al-Fitr. In the absence of a confirmed sighting, Muslims complete a full 30-day fast.
Eid al-Fitr marks the conclusion of the holy month of Ramadan, a period characterised by fasting, prayer, charity and reflection among Muslims worldwide.
In Uganda, thousands are expected to gather at mosques and designated prayer grounds on Friday morning for special Eid prayers, followed by celebrations with family and community.
Across Kampala and other major towns, preparations for Eid celebrations intensified throughout the day, with markets experiencing increased activity as families purchased food, clothing and other essentials.
Traders reported brisk business, particularly in textiles and food items traditionally associated with Eid festivities.
Religious leaders have urged Muslims to use the occasion to promote unity, compassion and generosity, values emphasised during Ramadan.
They also called on the faithful to remember the less privileged through acts of charity, a central aspect of Eid celebrations.
Eid al-Fitr is recognised as a public holiday in Uganda, allowing Muslims and other citizens to participate in the celebrations.
Security agencies typically deploy personnel at major venues to ensure smooth and peaceful observance of the day.
As Muslims across the country prepare to mark Eid on Friday, the mood remains one of gratitude and joy following a month of spiritual devotion.
The confirmation by UMSC provides clarity and allows the faithful to transition from fasting to celebration in accordance with Islamic tradition.
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