Today in Mogadishu, the first group of Somali pilgrims departing for this year’s Hajj pilgrimage was officially seen off in a warm and emotional ceremony held at Aden Adde International Airport. The 431 pilgrims are headed to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to join millions of Muslims from around the world in fulfilling the sacred rites of Hajj.
A number of senior Somali government officials, including ministers, were present to bid farewell to the pilgrims. Those in attendance included Minister of Religious Affairs Sheikh Mukhtar Robow Ali, Minister of Health Dr. Ali Haji Adam, and Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation Mohamed Farah Nuuh, among other dignitaries.
Before their departure, the pilgrims were honored with a formal send-off event at the airport, where they received advice and blessings from government representatives. The ceremony emphasized the spiritual importance of Hajj and the responsibility of representing Somalia with dignity.
Minister Sheikh Mukhtar Robow offered heartfelt words of encouragement, advising the pilgrims to strictly adhere to the Hajj protocols set by the Saudi authorities. He concluded his remarks by praying for their safe journey and for Allah to accept their pilgrimage.
