What is Diwali and why hasn’t govt declared it a national holiday yet?
By David Nthua, October 22, 2025The word Diwali means “a row of lights.” It is one of the biggest celebrations for Hindus around the world, including those living in Kenya.
The festival marks the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and hope over despair.
During Diwali, homes and temples shine with colourful lamps, fireworks light up the sky, and families share food, gifts, and laughter.
In Kenya, the Hindu community celebrates Diwali with great joy in towns like Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu.
Also watch: Diwali: The festival of lights ushering in a new year in the Hindu calendar
Many non-Hindu friends also join the celebrations, enjoying the music, sweets, and unity that the day brings. But many Kenyans often ask the same question: why is Diwali not a public holiday for everyone?
Why Diwali is not a public holiday
Even though Diwali is celebrated widely, it is not an official public holiday in Kenya. This means that most schools, offices, and businesses stay open.
The reason is that Kenya’s public holidays are decided by a law called the Public Holidays Act.
Only holidays listed in that law or declared by the government through the Ministry of Interior become official for everyone.
So far, Diwali has never been included in that list. It remains a special day mainly for the Hindu community.
Unless an employer or school allows time off, most Kenyans continue with their normal routines.
Ruto’s promise to the Hindu community
In 2024, President William Ruto met members of the Hindu community at State House during their Diwali celebration and promised to make the festival an official national holiday.
He said, “I have heard your request on the issue of us having Diwali as a national holiday. I will subject it to the government process; the Speaker is here.”
The President added, “If it has to happen, it has to go through Parliament, but I want to assure you that we will have decided by the next Diwali.”
President Ruto also promised to defend the right of every Kenyan to worship freely, saying, “Let me also take this occasion to give you my assurance and that of the government of Kenya that we will protect by all means possible the sacred provision of the right to worship by all Kenyans and all religions.”
His statement gave hope to many Kenyans who believe the recognition of Diwali as a national holiday will promote peace, respect, and unity among all communities. Many still look forward to the day when the Festival of Lights will officially join Kenya’s list of national holidays.