End of Ramadan (Eid al-Fitr) in South Sudan

Meaning and timing

Eid al-Fitr, the Festival of Breaking the Fast, follows Ramadan, the lunar month of fasting. It takes place during the first days of Shawwal. Because the Islamic lunar year is shorter than the solar year, Eid moves through the Gregorian calendar over time.[4]

The Open University notes that the Prophet Muhammad is believed to have introduced Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. This is the broader Islamic background to the holiday recognized in South Sudan; the Ministry of Labour’s calendar describes Eid al-Fitr as a Muslim holiday marking the end of Ramadan’s fasting month.[2][4]

Public holiday and employee leave

South Sudan’s Labour Act says employees are entitled to paid leave on days the Ministry of Labour declares public holidays. An employee required to work on such a day is entitled either to twice their regular hourly rate for the hours worked or to one day of paid leave as compensation.[1]

The Act says its provisions generally apply to employers and employees, with exceptions including the army, organized forces, the national security service, judges, government legal counsels, diplomatic service and constitutional post holders. The Ministry’s public holiday calendar lists Eid, and the Ministry publishes separate Eid holiday notices.[1][2][3]

Observance

In Muslim communities generally, Eid is commonly marked with a congregational prayer and sermon, charity for people in need, and visits with family and friends.[4]

Work and travel arrangements

Ministry of Labour Eid notices have announced holiday periods and specified when work resumes. Check current announcements and confirm arrangements directly with an employer or service provider.[3]

Check with the relevant bank, shop or transport provider before making plans.