Monday July 3, 2023
Mogadishu (HOL) - Four Somali pilgrims, including two men and two women, have died during this year's Hajj, according to Minister Muqtar Robow of Somalia's Ministry of Endowments and Religious Affairs. Additionally, 60 Somali pilgrims fell ill during the pilgrimage, with most of them recovering after receiving immediate care.
Minister Robow, currently in the Holy City of Makkah al-Mukarama, spoke about the challenges faced by Somali pilgrims, including an incident where the buses serving lunch experienced a slight delay. This issue, however, was promptly addressed and resolved.
Despite these hurdles, a significant number of Somali pilgrims participated in the Hajj. According to official government records, the count stands at 11,650, although Minister Robow acknowledged the presence of additional Somalis from various nationalities.
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, hosting the annual Hajj pilgrimage, reported that around 1.8 million pilgrims from across the globe made the religious journey this year.