By: Zacharia Jalloh, Ministry of Information and Civic Education
The Ministry of Information and Civic Education held its weekly press conference to provide detailed updates on the 2026 Hajj process. Government representatives, clerics, and officials from the Presidential Hajj Task Force (PHTF) outlined preparations, policies, logistical arrangements, and critical guidance for prospective pilgrims. The following are the key highlights:
♦Islamic Guidance on Affordability of Hajj
Deputy Minister of Information and Civic Education, Bocakarie Abdel-Aziz Bawoh, reminded the public that Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam and is required only for those who can afford it. He emphasized that Islam discourages individuals from borrowing or placing financial hardship upon themselves to perform the pilgrimage. He referenced Quranic verses highlighting that Hajj is obligatory only for those with the means, and that Allah does not impose hardship in religion: “And Hajj to the House is a duty owed to Allah by those who can afford it.” [Al ‘Imran 3:97] “Allah has not placed hardship upon you in the religion.” [Al-Hajj 22:78]
♦Role of the Presidential Hajj Task Force
Deputy Minister of Social Welfare and Government Representative to the PHTF, Mohamed Hajj-Kella, apologized for the late start of the press conference, explaining it was due to the observance of the Zhur prayer. He noted that the PHTF, comprising clerics and MDAs, is responsible for managing the Hajj process. With the approval of President Dr Julius Maada Bio, Vice President Dr Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh serves as the head of the Task Force.
♦Pilgrim Quotas, Payments and Government Support
Deputy Minister Hajj-Kella reported plans to take 800 pilgrims from Sierra Leone and 2,200 from the diaspora and other countries, noting that over half of those registered have already paid. Although the payment deadline expired two days earlier, an extension has been granted for a few more days. He assured the public that all 800 Sierra Leonean pilgrims will travel. He added that while the government previously subsidized about $250 per person, the Hajj Committee is now transitioning toward full independence from government financial support.
♦Progress, Standards and Pilgrim Welfare
Chairman of the PHTF, Alhaji Murtada Sesay, recalled the disorganized and difficult Hajj experience prior to 2018. He stated that since his appointment by President Bio, significant improvements have been made, and the 2026 registration process is complete and on schedule. He disclosed that pilgrims with medical conditions will not travel this year, in accordance with new Saudi regulations. Accommodation and transportation arrangements for the 2026 delegation have already been finalized.
♦Support to Pilgrims in Sierra Leone and the Diaspora
Chairman Murtada further noted that the Task Force also oversees pilgrims from the diaspora. Last year, about 2,000 pilgrims were successfully facilitated. He emphasized that through careful budgeting and financial discipline, the Task Force has significantly reduced, if not eliminated, dependence on government funding.
♦Advice to Pilgrims
Haja Aminata Jalloh of the Hajj Support Team encouraged all pilgrims to strictly follow instructions from the Committee to ensure a smooth pilgrimage. She also advised Muslims to perform Hajj at a younger age, noting that the physical demands of the rituals make it more challenging for the elderly.
♦Travel Dates for the 2026 Hajj
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The 2026 Hajj will take place from 26–31 May 2026. Sierra Leonean pilgrims are scheduled to depart Freetown on 15th May 2026 and return between 5th and 8th June 2026.
