Somalia Reduces Public Sector Working Hours for Ramadan

Public sector working hours in Somalia have been reduced during Ramadan to 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. to support fasting workers, while essential services continue. The private sector largely maintains normal hours, and critical workers such as the Somali National Army and healthcare staff remain on regular or shift-based duties.

The Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs has announced a reduction in official public sector working hours for the duration of the holy month of Ramadan, in keeping with long-established labour practices observed in Somalia, a predominantly Muslim nation. The decision reflects customary adjustments made each year to accommodate the physical and spiritual demands of fasting during the sacred period.
In a statement issued to mark the commencement of Ramadan, the ministry conveyed its congratulations to Somali workers and the broader Muslim community. It emphasized that the revised working hours are intended to respect the religious significance of the month while supporting the wellbeing and productivity of employees who are observing the fast. The ministry noted that the adjustment aligns with national labour traditions and seeks to balance spiritual observance with the continued delivery of public services.
According to the revised timetable, government offices will operate from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., resulting in a six-hour working day for public sector employees. This measure is designed to ease workloads and reduce physical strain during fasting hours, while ensuring that essential administrative and public services remain functional throughout the month.
The private sector is generally expected to continue operating under its usual working hours. However, the ministry acknowledged that some private businesses may choose to introduce flexible schedules or reduced hours at their own discretion, depending on the nature of their operations and the needs of their workforce.
As is customary during Ramadan, many restaurants suspend operations during daylight hours. Some establishments close for the entire month, while others resume business only in the evening to cater to customers after the breaking of the fast. These adjustments reflect both religious observance and changes in consumer activity during the period.
Somalia’s labour framework has in recent years attracted public discussion, particularly concerning the total number of official working days and hours. While Fridays are formally recognized as the weekly day of rest, many workers report that they are required to work on Saturdays and Sundays, depending on their sector or employer.
Under the revised Ramadan schedule, public sector employees are expected to work approximately 30 hours per week, although this may vary based on institutional policies regarding breaks and internal arrangements. The ministry clarified that the adjustment may not be applied uniformly across all sectors.
Certain categories of workers are expected to maintain extended or shift-based schedules due to the critical nature of their duties. These include members of the Somali National Army, who continue operations against Al-Shabaab, as well as medical personnel in both public and private health facilities, whose services remain essential throughout the month.