Korité in Sierra Leone
Korité, also known as Eid al-Fitr, marks the end of Ramadan. In Sierra Leone, an official notice has declared the feast a public holiday throughout the country, while a State House account of an Eid celebration in Freetown records prayers, a sermon and participation by Muslims from across the country.[1][2]
Meaning and timing
Eid al-Fitr celebrates the completion of Ramadan, the Islamic month of fasting. Its date follows the lunar calendar: the Islamic calendar’s months are 29 or 30 days, so the festival moves through the Gregorian calendar rather than falling on the same date each year.[2]
Korité falls on 1 Shawwal. When the date falls on Sunday, the public holiday moves to Monday.[1]
A Sierra Leone observance
A State House report describes an Eid gathering at State Lodge in Freetown attended by President Julius Maada Bio, the First Lady and senior government officials, alongside Muslims from Sierra Leone and abroad. It records an imam’s sermon and prayers, and describes Eid as marking the completion of the Ramadan fast.[1]
The imam’s message in that report emphasized unity, generosity and solidarity. The President also spoke about religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence between Muslims and Christians.[1]
Public holiday and practical planning
A 2016 Government Gazette notice, issued under section 2 of the Public Holidays Act, declared Eid-ul-Fitri a public holiday throughout Sierra Leone.[3]
Check with a particular office or service before travelling or arranging business, as opening hours can vary.[3]
Korité in Sierra Leone: FAQs
What does Korité mark?
When does Korité fall?
Is Korité a public holiday in Sierra Leone?
Yes. A Government Gazette notice declared Eid-ul-Fitri a public holiday throughout Sierra Leone under section 2 of the Public Holidays Act.[3]
Does the public holiday guarantee paid leave for every worker?
The 2016 Government Gazette notice confirms the public-holiday designation but does not specify private-sector leave or pay entitlements.[3]
Will shops and transport operate as usual?
Check with shops and transport operators before travelling, as opening hours can vary.[3]
Sources and references
Sources used for Korité in Sierra Leone:
- Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio And First Lady Fatima Maada Bio, Join Muslims Nationwide To Celebrate Eid-Al-Fitr, Appeal For National Harmony- Office of the President of Sierra Leone
- Eid al-Fitr- The Open University
- The Sierra Leone Gazette- Government of Sierra Leone