Mogadishu (SNTV) - The Minister of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs of the Federal Government of Somalia, Sheikh Mukhtar Roobow, on Saturday launched a comprehensive awareness campaign targeting Somali pilgrims preparing for the annual Hajj pilgrimage. The ceremony was attended by the Ministry's Director General Ibrahim Nadara, representatives from airline companies tasked with transporting pilgrims, and other senior officials.
According to Director General Ibrahim Nadara, the campaign comprises approximately 70 to 100 religious sermons covering essential aspects of Hajj, including the rituals (ibaadada), jurisprudential rules (axkaamteeda), permitted actions, etiquette (aadaab), and religious prohibitions (awaamiir daari). These educational materials will be delivered through various formats including short videos designed for television and social media platforms, ensuring wide accessibility across the nation.
The campaign also incorporates crucial health components, with Somali doctors providing specialized advice on both physical and mental health maintenance during the pilgrimage. Additionally, the Ministry has produced a pocket-sized booklet in the Somali language detailing Hajj regulations from departure to return, intended for literate pilgrims to read and benefit from throughout their journey.
Ali Mohamed Cibaar, Head of Hajj Affairs at the Ministry, explained that while awareness campaigns have been conducted previously by various groups, this marks the first time the Federal Government has formally integrated these efforts into its official Hajj operations. "We used to do this, but now the government itself has joined and is prepared to work on awareness for Somali pilgrims," Cibaar stated, emphasizing the institutional commitment to supporting pilgrims.
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Minister Roobow addressed significant changes implemented by Saudi authorities regarding this year's Hajj procedures and warned pilgrims against fraudulent schemes. He clarified that no individual can accept money to secure Hajj permits outside official channels, emphasizing that all pilgrim funds are secured in official accounts. "The pilgrims' money is in the bank; no one can withdraw it or take it for themselves," the Minister assured, addressing concerns about potential financial exploitation.
The Saudi government has introduced new requirements and regulations for this year's pilgrimage, prompting the Somali Ministry to begin preparations early. Over 10,500 Somali pilgrims are expected to perform Hajj this year, with the Ministry working diligently to ensure all applicants meet the updated Saudi criteria and that the pilgrimage proceeds smoothly.
