As members of the Islamic faith flock to various mosques and prayer grounds for Idd-ul-Adha celebrations, Kenyan Muslims thronged major markets to shop for different items including new clothes, foodstuff, and livestock.
The day is commemorated every year after the Hajj pilgrimage for four days, with faithful expected to conduct prayers in mosques, prayer grounds and even their houses.
Despite the sharp rise in the cost of living, Muslims sacrifice animals, typically goats, sheep, cows and camels and share the meals among families, neighbours, and the less fortunate in society in the spirit of brotherhood.
Yesterday, at Nairobi’s popular Kiamaiko goat Market, it is booming business as traders enjoyed a surge in goat buyers as the season set in.
Mohammed Sora, a long time goat seller at Kiamaiko, says the Idd period is usually busy.
“We’ve prepared for weeks, ensuring our goats are healthy, well-fed, and meet the expectations of customers. It’s a time of great importance for us and the Muslim community.” Sora said, adding that on a normal day, he sells 20 goats but by 1pm yesterday, he had sold 50 goats.
The price of one goat ranges from Sh9,500 to Sh14,000, Sora said.
Hussein Adan, another goat seller at Kiamaiko, says business would have been better if the prices were not as high. He recalls a time when buying a goat was relatively inexpensive, with prices as low as Sh5,000. However, due to the current state of the economy, the prices have increased.
“There was a time when a goat was affordable because transporting them from Marsabit to Nairobi was also low. Now we pay Sh130,000 for transport. Although today is considerably a good day for goat sellers, the sales are not as high compared to previous years. Many people now opt to buy only one or two goats.” Adan said.
Another businessman Hassan Gabya, who owns a slaughterhouse, also says the high cost of living has reduced Kenyans’ purchasing power, adding that he slaughters five goats and the sales are sluggish, with only two out of the five selling quickly.
“The business is good but the economy is bad. People do not have money to buy goats at Sh11,000.” He said.
Meanwhile, majority of traders in Mombasa have been forced to cut prices to attract buyers. Mr Ibrahim Ali, a curtain seller at the MacKinnon Market for instance, said he has had to slash prices to entice customers.
“Normally, a metre of curtains goes for between Sh450 and Sh500. But due to the harsh economic times, if I sold at the same price during these festivities, no customer will visit my shop.” He said.
Ms Zulfa Hamid, another trader, has set up a table outside her shop due to the high number of clients, but she is also selling at discounted prices.
“From Sunday, I started selling clothes at half price. I did not expect such a huge turnout. That is why I have decided to extend my services outside the shop.” She said.
Restaurants, food vendors, and caterers have also discounted rates for the Idd festivities.
“Traditional foods and special desserts are normally prepared to mark the occasion. I have received many orders, because of the low prices.” Said Mr Hashim Kassim, a home-based chef.
Souces from Eastleigh, a bubbling shopping empire which not only serves Nairobi residents but also operates as the main shopping centre for retailers and customers across the country, recorded high numbers of buyers as well.
The Idd celebrations take place on Dhul Hijjah, the 12th and final month of the Islamic calendar. Millions of Muslims worldwide commemorate the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son Ismail as an act of obedience to God.
Meanwhile, chairman of the National Council of NGOs has sent a congratulatory message to all Muslims celebrating this day, saying it is a reminder of the communal obligation to care for each other.
“As Muslims gather across the globe to commemorate the family of Ibrahim, Hajar, and their son’s relationship to God through the rituals of Eid and Hajj,we are reminded of Islam’s diversity and its call for equality and compassion for all.” Cheboi said in a statement to newsrooms.
“During this time of celebration, community and service, Muslims of all walks of life put aside personal priorities to assist those in need. May this special holiday be a celebration of togetherness and a devotion to service. Eid Mubarak.”
