The national government has launched a plan to support Muslim families facing hardships as they prepare for Ramadan, expected to begin next week. This initiative aims to ease financial burdens during the holy month of fasting, particularly in drought-affected areas. Security measures have been intensified to ensure public safety amid heightened activities.
The Kenyan national government has initiated a program to assist Muslim families in challenging financial and environmental conditions, with Ramadan anticipated to start between February 18 and 19. Drought-impacted counties include Mandera, Turkana, Wajir, Garissa, Marsabit, Isiolo, Kajiado, Kilifi, Kwale, Lamu, and Tana River. Lamu County Commissioner Wesley Koech stated that the effort seeks to alleviate economic pressures. “Our goal is to ensure they can observe the fasting rituals with ease,” Koech said.
In the coastal region, Ramadan preparations are progressing rapidly, with traders stocking up on essential goods. Security forces have bolstered patrols due to expected late-night and early-morning activities. Koech warned that the Al-Shabaab group often launches attacks just before or after Ramadan begins. “Therefore, as security agencies, we have strengthened our measures with heightened surveillance, increased patrols, and intelligence gathering to guarantee public safety throughout,” he added.
In Mombasa, Kwale, and Kilifi counties, security has been ramped up to address potential youth gang violence. Last week, Coast Region Police Commander Ali Nuno directed officers to confront criminals wielding pangas aggressively.
Muslim leader Mohamed Sharif from Tudor in Mombasa expressed concerns over surging prices of essentials. “The government has the capacity to regulate these traders' activities. They know Ramadan is a time when food and key goods are bought in bulk,” Sharif remarked. Raya Famau, a women's leader and human rights activist in Lamu, noted that rising costs of grains and cooking oil will complicate preparing iftar and suhoor meals for many families. Chairman of the Coast Interfaith Council of Clerics (CICC), Mohamed Abdulkadir, called for aid to reach less fortunate believers.