Some Muslims Hold Early Eid Prayers in Mangochi Despite Official Date

Some Muslims in Mangochi have gone ahead to conduct Eid-ul-Fitr prayers, despite the official announcement that the celebrations should take place later.

This follows a statement by the National Moon Sighting Committee (NMC), which confirmed that the moon for Shawwal was not sighted, meaning Eid prayers are scheduled for Saturday, March 21, 2026.

However, prayers were held earlier today at venues including Mufta Abbassi Primary School and Mangochi Stadium, among other locations.

Speaking after the prayers, Sheikh Mussa Omar Saidan urged Muslims to continue acts of charity and kindness even after the holy month of Ramadan.

Meanwhile, the government, through the Ministry of Local Government, has also announced that the Eid-ul-Fitr public holiday will be observed on Monday, March 23, 2026, following the official prayers on March 21.