Muslim leaders have called on believers to deepen their faith, embrace sacrifice, and translate devotion into acts of compassion and unity, as they observed Eid al-Adha on Wednesday, May 27. The festival, one of Islam’s holiest, commemorates Ibrahim’s obedience to Allah when he accepted a divine command to sacrifice his son Ismail, though Allah provided a ram in his place. The celebrations of the day in Rwanda took place at Kigali Pele Stadium. ALSO READ: Eid al-Adha: Muslims urged to embrace sharing and support the needy Sheikh Musa Sindayigaya, the Mufti of Rwanda, in a speech he made at the event, explained that Eid al-Adha falls on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah, one of the most spiritually significant periods in the Islamic calendar. “These are the first ten days of the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah, based on moon sightings. They carry great value as mentioned in the Qur’an. This is the 10th day, a day in which believers draw closer to Allah,” he said. ALSO READ: A guide to understanding Eid al-Adha He added that more acts of worship and charity performed during this period carry multiplied reward. “This is a good period; when you do good deeds, the reward from Allah is multiplied,” he said. Sindayigaya also linked the celebrations to the ongoing Hajj pilgrimage in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, saying both events reflect submission, devotion, and unity among Muslims worldwide. He said the story of Ibrahim remains a central lesson in faith and sacrifice. “It reminds us of the story of Prophet Ibrahim, who was tested by Allah and commanded to sacrifice his son after receiving him at an old age. When he showed full obedience, Allah replaced the sacrifice with a ram,” he said. Noting that Eid al-Adha and Eid al-Fitr are recognised as public holidays in Rwanda, he said this reflects respect for freedom of worship and good governance. He also referred to discussions held earlier this year during the recent “Meet the President”session with President Paul Kagame, where the Muslim community raised several concerns. ALSO READ: PHOTOS: Kagame pledges to fast-track stalled Muslim community projects Among them was the use of loudspeakers for the early morning Adhan, which he said had been noted by the government and was under consideration through the Ministry of Local Government. “We thank the President for the engagement. The issue was raised, and we were informed that it is being looked into,” he said. He called on Muslims to remain united and standing in their faith, saying Eid should strengthen both spirituality and social cohesion. For worshippers, the message of Eid extended beyond ritual sacrifice to everyday conduct and responsibility. Saidi Muvunyi, a resident of Kimisagara, said the day serves as a reminder of trust and obedience to God. “This day reminds us to trust Allah and follow His guidance in both words and actions,” he said. He added that Eid should also strengthen compassion, including sharing with the vulnerable and caring for others regardless of faith.
