Somalia’s Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs has announced shorter official working hours for public sector employees during the holy month of Ramadan.
In a statement marking the start of Ramadan, the ministry congratulated Somali workers and the wider Muslim community, explaining that the adjustment reflects the spiritual importance of the month and helps accommodate employees who are fasting.
Under the new schedule, government offices will operate from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., creating a six-hour working day aimed at easing workloads while ensuring essential services continue.
The private sector is generally expected to maintain normal hours, though some businesses may choose to adopt flexible arrangements.
The ministry also noted that many restaurants and food outlets close during daylight hours, with some reopening only at night after iftar.
However, the reduced schedule will not apply equally across all sectors. Medical staff and members of the Somali National Army, who continue operations against Al-Shabaab, are expected to keep extended or shift-based working hours due to ongoing national needs.
SOURCE: TRT AFRICA
