By Amin Kef (Ranger)
Vice President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, has praised the successful organization of the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage, commending the dedication and coordination of the Presidential Hajj Taskforce and all institutions that contributed to what he described as another successful religious exercise for Sierra Leonean Muslims.
Speaking on Friday, 12 June 2026, after joining President Dr. Julius Maada Bio for Jummah prayers at State House to welcome returning Hajj pilgrims from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Vice President highlighted the Government’s commitment to improving the management of one of Islam’s most sacred obligations.
Dr. Juldeh Jalloh noted that the gathering was an opportunity to celebrate the safe return of the pilgrims and to thank Allah for the successful completion of the holy journey.
“Today, I joined His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio for Jummah prayers at State House to welcome our returning Hajj pilgrims from Mecca,” the Vice President stated, adding that the President had emphasized the significant progress made in the administration of the Hajj programme, including the expansion of opportunities for Sierra Leoneans living in the diaspora to participate in the pilgrimage.
As Supervisor of the Presidential Hajj Taskforce, Dr. Juldeh Jalloh expressed profound appreciation to members of the Taskforce and all partner institutions whose dedication ensured the smooth coordination and successful execution of this year’s pilgrimage.
“I want to extend my sincere appreciation to the Taskforce and all institutions whose hard work and coordination made this year’s pilgrimage another success,” he said.
The Vice President also offered prayers for the returning pilgrims and the nation, saying, “May Allah accept the Hajj of our pilgrims and continue to bless Sierra Leone.”
The special congregational prayer at State House brought together returning pilgrims, religious leaders, government officials, and members of the Muslim community to offer gratitude for a safe pilgrimage and to pray for lasting peace, unity, and national development.
Providing an overview of the 2026 Hajj exercise, Chairman of the Presidential Hajj Taskforce, Alhaji Murtada Sesay, disclosed that a total of 2,626 Sierra Leonean pilgrims, including members of the diaspora community, participated in this year’s pilgrimage. According to him, 826 pilgrims travelled directly from Sierra Leone, and all participants successfully completed the sacred rites and returned home safely.
Alhaji Sesay commended President Bio and his Government for their unwavering support and acknowledged the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders whose contributions ensured effective planning and management throughout the exercise.
President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, in his address, warmly welcomed the pilgrims home and congratulated them on fulfilling one of Islam’s most important acts of worship. He praised the Presidential Hajj Taskforce for its efficiency and commitment, noting that the continuous improvements in the Hajj management process reflect the Government’s determination to provide better public services for all Sierra Leoneans.
The President further encouraged institutions, development partners, and citizens to continue supporting national development efforts while praying for peace, unity, and prosperity across the country.
The prayer session concluded with special supplications for national cohesion, economic progress, and the continued advancement of Sierra Leone, reaffirming the important role of faith in promoting hope, solidarity, and collective responsibility in nation-building.
