400 goats, sheep slaughtered as Kisumu marks Idd

The Muslim Association of Kisumu today slaughtered 400 goats, sheep and two cows to celebrate Iddd-ul-Adha.

Chairman Sheikh Musa Hajj thanked the government for declaring Friday a public holiday to celebrate Idd, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice.

"We decided to reach out to the less fortunate Muslims given that this year's festival has come amid a pandemic,'' said Hajj.

Like the Islamic holiday, Idd-ul-Fitr held after the holy month of Ramadhan, Muslims united in joy and took turns to pray in various mosques.

Goats, sheep, cows and camels are sacrificed to reflect Prophet Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son Ismail for God.

The meat is then donated to the poor as well as neighbours and family.

"During the celebrations, Muslims who are financially able to are required to give to the poor," Hajj explained.

Some may prefer to give money to their local mosque or organisation, who in turn buy the livestock and distribute the meat to thousands of people in need.

All livestock must be hygienically and ethically treated.

Hajj added that on Friday morning Public Health officials and officers from the veterinary station certified the slaughtered the meat.

Muslims took part in outdoor prayers and other session spread across the day to keep physical distance as a precautionary measure against Covid-19.

Idd greetings were given without hugging or shaking hands.

Much of the festival involves getting together with family and friends and sharing meals, but this year's festivities were different.

Most mosques in Kisumu are following Public Health guidelines and encouraging Muslims to reserve a spot for prayer on different times to abide by the new social distancing rule.

''We started Idd by gathering at various mosques in the morning to take part in prayers,'' he said.

Hajj said they will share the meat with fellow Muslims and the less fortunate, especially those living in the slums.

Resident Ali Abdi thanked the Muslims for remembering the less fortunate hit by Covid-19. ''For us, we are happy that our leaders have thought of us,'' he said.

The Muslim association also donated 50 bags of rice and beans as well as soft drinks to mark the fete.