Ghana has declared Friday, March 20, and Monday, March 23, 2026, as public holidays to mark the Islamic festival of Eid-ul-Fitr and Shaqq Day, the Ministry of the Interior has announced.
In a statement issued on March 13, the ministry explained that Friday, March 20, and Saturday, March 21, 2026, mark Eid-ul-Fitr and Shaqq Day respectively, both recognised as statutory public holidays in the country.
However, because Shaqq Day falls on a Saturday this year, President John Dramani Mahama has declared Monday, March 23, 2026, as an additional public holiday to be observed nationwide.
The declaration was made through an Executive Instrument in accordance with Section 2 of the Public Holidays and Commemorative Days Act, 2001 (Act 601), as amended. The ministry said the move ensures that citizens can fully observe the statutory holiday, which this year coincides with the weekend.
Eid-ul-Fitr marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, during which Muslims around the world observe fasting, prayer and reflection.
The festival is traditionally celebrated with special prayers, communal gatherings and acts of charity among Muslim communities.
The statement, signed by the Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, urged the general public to take note and observe the holidays accordingly.
The announcement effectively creates a long weekend for many workers, with Friday’s Eid-ul-Fitr holiday followed by the additional public holiday on Monday.
