As Kenyans joined the global Muslim community in celebrating Eid al-Adha, the Atheist in Kenya made headlines with a bold request: the establishment of a national public holiday to recognize atheists and non-religious citizens.
The Atheists in Kenya, registered on February 17th, 2016, in Nairobi, serves as Kenya’s only non-religious umbrella organization, uniting atheists, agnostics, humanists, free thinkers, and skeptics committed to treating each person with inherent worth and dignity.
The society’s President, Harrison Mumia has consistently championed February 17 as “Atheist Day,” a date to honor Kenyans who choose to live without religion, while advocating for their rights, dignity, and broader societal recognition.
The call for an atheist holiday arises as Kenya observes several religious holidays like Christmas, Easter, and Eid. Mumia argues that excluding non-religious citizens from national recognition exposes a gap in the country’s approach to inclusivity and equality.
“We will see the day when Atheists are respected as equal citizens, when religion has no presence in government, when rationality reigns in public policy, in education, in daily life in Kenya. That day is coming, and it is coming soon,” he commented in February, during the 9th anniversary.
Mumia, a leading voice in Kenya’s atheist community, also took the opportunity to challenge widespread misconceptions about atheism on his social media platforms, emphasizing that non-belief does not equate to immorality or lack of values.
“Atheism is the denial of metaphysical beliefs in God(s) or spiritual beings,” he clarified, dispelling claims that atheists are devil worshippers. This statement, seemingly, aims to counter stereotypes and foster understanding of atheism as a legitimate worldview.
Mumia and the AIK are working to normalize their role within a deeply religious society, navigating traditional beliefs and cultural values while seeking acceptance. Their efforts aim to bridge gaps and foster understanding in a community rooted in faith and tradition.
Critics have described the proposal as controversial, with some arguing that it is unnecessary and could be seen as deliberately provocative in a country where religion holds significant cultural, social, and political influence across communities and institutions.
In Kenya, the designation of public holidays is governed by the Public Holidays Act (Cap 110). The process typically involves consultation between the government, religious and cultural groups, and other stakeholders.
The Interior Cabinet Secretary can gazette new public holidays, usually based on recommendations or petitions. Kenya’s official holidays reflect its cultural and religious diversity, including national days like Jamhuri and Madaraka, and religious ones like Christmas and Eid.
For a new holiday to be established, a formal proposal must be submitted to the government, often accompanied by public advocacy or petitions. The proposal is then reviewed, considering factors such as cultural significance, public support, and economic implications.
If deemed viable, the Cabinet Secretary may gazette the holiday through a legal notice published in the Kenya Gazette. Neither the Atheists’ society of their President Mumia has expressed interest to initiate the process, which would require significant public and political support to succeed.
In 2024, Mumia attended the National Prayer Breakfast, signaling atheist engagement in national dialogue. While it’s unclear if the government will act on AIK’s request, if made, the move reflects Kenya’s shifting cultural and religious dynamics.
Mumia’s proposal has sparked wider debate on secularism and inclusivity in Kenya’s public space. The society continues fundraising efforts, urging supporters to contribute via Lipa Na M-Pesa Paybill 522533, using Account Number 8009666 to sustain its activities.