The Ministry of the Interior has announced that Friday, March 20 and Monday, March 23 will be observed as statutory public holidays across Ghana to mark the celebration of Eid Ul Fitr and the newly introduced Shaqq Day.
The declaration follows the expected end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, a period during which Muslims across the world observe fasting, prayer and spiritual reflection. Eid Ul Fitr marks the end of the month long fast and is one of the most significant celebrations in the Islamic calendar.
In a statement issued by the Interior Ministry, the government informed the general public that Friday, March 20 would be observed nationwide as the public holiday for Eid Ul Fitr. The ministry further declared Monday, March 23 as an additional public holiday to commemorate Shaqq Day, a new holiday introduced under amendments to Ghana’s public holiday framework.
Eid Ul Fitr is a movable feast in the Islamic calendar because it is determined by the sighting of the crescent moon that signals the end of Ramadan. As a result, the exact date of the celebration can vary slightly from year to year depending on lunar observations by religious authorities.
Across Ghana, Muslims typically mark the festival with special congregational prayers held in open grounds and mosques early in the morning. The celebrations continue with family gatherings, charity to the less privileged and communal meals as families and friends come together after a month of fasting from dawn to sunset.
The declaration of a second holiday for Shaqq Day reflects recent legislative changes aimed at expanding recognition of religious observances in the country. Shaqq Day is observed on the day immediately after Eid Ul Fitr and provides an additional opportunity for the Muslim community to continue celebrations and reflection following the festival.
The holiday was introduced through amendments to the Public Holidays and Commemorative Days Act as part of efforts by the government to acknowledge the importance of Islamic festivals within Ghana’s national calendar. Officials noted that the introduction of Shaqq Day seeks to promote inclusivity and allow Muslims more time to celebrate the completion of Ramadan with their families and communities.
Ghana has long maintained a public holiday system that reflects both national historical milestones and the country’s religious diversity. Alongside Christian holidays such as Christmas and Easter, Islamic celebrations including Eid Ul Fitr and Eid Ul Adha are recognized as statutory holidays across the country.
The Interior Ministry urged citizens, institutions and businesses to observe the declared days as public holidays in accordance with the law. Government offices, many private institutions and schools are expected to close during the period to allow citizens to participate fully in the celebrations.
Muslim leaders across Ghana typically use the Eid period to emphasize unity, charity and peace within communities. Religious authorities often encourage worshippers to extend acts of kindness to neighbours and the vulnerable, reflecting the spiritual lessons of Ramadan which emphasise discipline, generosity and devotion.
In recent years, Eid celebrations in Ghana have drawn large crowds in cities such as Accra, Kumasi, Tamale and Wa, where thousands gather for the traditional Eid prayers before continuing with festivities in homes and communities.
Security agencies usually work closely with religious leaders and local authorities to ensure peaceful celebrations, particularly in major urban centres where large gatherings are expected.
With the declaration of the two public holidays, many Ghanaians will enjoy an extended weekend period that allows both Muslims and non Muslims alike to share in the festive atmosphere and national observance.
Authorities have encouraged the public to celebrate responsibly and maintain peace and harmony during the holiday period, while also observing any relevant public safety guidelines during gatherings and travel.
Preach against drug abuse – Interior Minister urges religious leaders