Vice President, Dr Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, on Tuesday 5th May 2026 bid farewell to over 800 intending pilgrims at the Gaddafi Mosque, east of Freetown, during a two-day grand orientation.
The programme was designed to prepare pilgrims for the Hajj by guiding them on the spiritual, physical, and medical aspects of the journey. It also brought together officials and religious leaders to offer prayers and practical advice ahead of the trip.
Addressing the gathering, the Vice President commended the Presidential Task Force and mosque authorities for the arrangement.
“I want to tell the presidential task force thank you. This place is big, nice, and very conducive,” he said.
He noted that since 2018, the government has worked to improve Hajj management, expanded access, and reduced challenges faced by pilgrims. “We want more Sierra Leoneans to have the opportunity to perform Hajj,” he added.
He urged the pilgrims to remain disciplined and united throughout the journey. “You must stay united and adhere to all the directions that will be given to you,” he said, reminding them that in the Holy Land, all are equal.
VP Juldeh Jalloh also called on younger pilgrims to support the elderly and show respect to one another. “You are going to seek forgiveness, so respect one another and avoid complaints,” the Vice President advised. In a brief address, the Saudi Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Saud Al Musaed, praised the strong ties between Saudi Arabia and Sierra Leone, describing the Hajj as a symbol of cooperation and shared faith. He prayed for a successful pilgrimage, saying, “We pray that Allah accepts your Hajj,” and commended both governments, including the team at the Office of the Vice President, for their efforts.
He also urged pilgrims to remain patient, disciplined, and follow all guidelines for a safe journey.
Deputy Minister of Social Welfare, Mohamed Haji Kella, praised Vice President Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh for his strong leadership in managing the Hajj, noting that over 7,600 Sierra Leoneans had performed the pilgrimage since 2018. “You have faithfully led this process and delivered for the country,” he said, while also appreciating support from Saudi Arabia.
He described the Vice President as “passionate and committed,” and thanked all stakeholders for their role in ensuring a successful Hajj process.
On behalf of the intending pilgrims, Alpha Wurie delivered a vote of thanks, commending the Vice President and the Presidential Task Force for what he described as a productive and successful two-day orientation.
He noted that the program was meaningful and that pilgrims had learnt a lot about the importance of the Hajj rituals. He further pledged, on behalf of his colleagues, that they would adhere to all protocols and apply the knowledge gained throughout their spiritual journey.
Credit: Aminata Turay
About the Author
