Leaders of Hajj and Umrah pilgrimage organizations in Uganda have appealed to President Yoweri Museveni to support their efforts in making pilgrimage more affordable, especially for underprivileged Muslims.
Speaking at a press conference held at Hotel Africana, Sheikh Shafic Mafo, head of the Uganda Pilgrimage Organizations and Maqam Travels Uganda, said that government assistance would enable more believers to fulfill the obligation of visiting the House of Allah.
The leaders also raised concerns about animal taxes imposed on pilgrims, saying the charges were making it difficult for many Muslims to meet the costs of Hajj and Umrah.
They cautioned Muslims against fraudsters posing as recruitment agents for Hajj, warning that unsuspecting believers risk being cheated.
Yasin Ssekikubo, spokesperson for the Hajj and Umrah Organization, echoed the concerns, highlighting several challenges pilgrims face. He urged Ugandan Muslims to remain vigilant and only deal with registered and credible travel companies.
Sheikh Mafo also criticized some influential figures in the country whom he accused of exploiting Muslims only when in need, warning that such attitudes weaken the community’s unity and progress.
