Thousands of Muslims to travel to Mecca for Pilgrimage

Over 5000 Muslim faithful from Kenya will travel to Mecca, Saudi Arabia to observe the annual pilgrimage known as Hajj.

Of these, 20 people from across the 47 counties are sponsored by the Saudi Arabian government.

Saudi Arabian Ambassador to Kenya Dr Mohammed Khayat says his government is planning to double the numbers as a way of strengthening bilateral relations between the two nations.

The first batch of Kenyan pilgrims departed on August 4 while the last flight will leave on August 15^th.

Hajj is the fifth and final pillar of Islam, and takes place in the month of Dhul Hijjah which is the 12^th month of the Islamic lunar calendar.

The first batch of Kenyan pilgrims departed on August 4 while the last flight will leave on August 15^th.

Hajj is the fifth and final pillar of Islam, and takes place in the month of Dhul Hijjah which is the 12^th month of the Islamic lunar calendar.

The pilgrimage is obligatory for all Muslims once a lifetime. This year, more than 5000 Muslim faithful from Kenya are travelling to Mecca to attend the religious event.

Saudi Arabia Ambassador to Kenya Dr Mohammed Khayat   says his government has offered to sponsor 20 people drawn from across the 47 counties.

The pilgrims represent differ cadres in society such as sheikhs, scholars, leaders and civil servants.

Dr Khayat pledged his government’s sponsorship to a Kenyan Muslim Doctor to take care of the safety of Kenya citizens.

Speaking when he presented Ihram or to the team, Kayat said the gesture is a way to promote bilateral relations between the two countries.

The Saudia Arabian government plans to double the number subsequently. The first flight carrying Kenyan pilgrims has left for Mecca on August 4th while the last flight will leave on August 15^th.

The   climax of the event will be idd-ul adha or the festival of sacrifice, to be marked globally on  Tuesday August 21th, where faithful congregate to pray and share meals and gifts with their families, relatives and neighbours.