13 May 2018 | 12:57 PM UTC
Kenya: Ramadan to begin May 15-16
Muslims around the world to begin celebrating Ramadan May 15-16; Tight security measures are to be expected due to a heightened terror threat
Event
On May 15-16 (depending on the moon in various locations around the world), Muslims will begin their month-long celebration of Ramadan. The end of the month of Ramadan, marked by the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations, will take place between June 14-16 (depending on the country and when Ramadan started).
Although only 11 percent of Kenya's population identifies as Muslim (the
majority are Christian), disruptions are likely in predominantly Muslim
quarters where Ramadan will be observed. Ramadan is not a public
holiday in the country.
Tight security measures are also to be expected due to a heightened terror threat in the region. Local authorities also typically observe an increase in incidents of petty crime during this period.
Context
Ramadan is a period of reflection and self-restraint and carries great significance within the Muslim calendar. Muslims traditionally observe daytime fasting and are called to practice increased devotion.
More generally, this period also marks a significant increase in the regional terror threat in many Muslim-majority countries across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.
Throughout Kenya, the terrorist threat remains high, especially from the Somali jihadist group Al-Shabaab, who has conducted several large-scale attacks over the past few years. Militant groups may increase their attempts to carry out attacks during the month of Ramadan.
Advice
On a more general note, due to security concerns, many Western governments advise against travel to a number of regions in the country, including areas bordering Somalia (parts of Mandera, Wajir, Garissa, and Lamu counties), Ethiopia, and South Sudan, as well as nonessential travel to the city of Mombasa. Several Nairobi neighborhoods, including Eastleigh and Pangani, are also best avoided. Report any suspicious objects or behavior to the relevant authorities, and be particularly cautious when visiting sites deemed particularly likely to be targeted in an attack (government buildings, places of worship, tourist sites, etc.).
