By Mohamed Lamin Banya
Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh on Tuesday 5 May 2026 bid farewell to over 800 intending pilgrims at the Gaddafi Mosque in east Freetown during a two-day orientation programme ahead of the Hajj.
The session was organized to prepare pilgrims spiritually, physically, and medically for the journey, while also providing guidance from religious leaders and officials.
Addressing the gathering, the Vice President commended the Presidential Task Force and mosque authorities for the arrangement, noting improvements in Hajj management since 2018 and government efforts to expand access for more Sierra Leoneans.
He urged the pilgrims to remain disciplined, united, and obedient to instructions during the pilgrimage, reminding them that all are equal in the Holy Land. He also encouraged younger pilgrims to support the elderly and show mutual respect.
Saudi Arabia’s Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Saud Al Musaed, praised the strong bilateral relations between the two countries and encouraged pilgrims to remain patient and follow guidelines for a successful Hajj.
Deputy Minister of Social Welfare, Mohamed Haji Kella, also commended the Vice President’s leadership in Hajj coordination, noting that over 7,600 Sierra Leoneans have performed the pilgrimage since 2018.
On behalf of the pilgrims, Alpha Wurie expressed appreciation for the orientation programme and pledged that participants would adhere to all instructions during their journey.
