In a landmark gesture of interfaith support and community empowerment, Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has sponsored 47 Muslim clerics from underprivileged areas of the city to perform Hajj, the sacred Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca.
The group, comprising Imams from neighborhoods including Kibera, Majengo, Maringo, and Utawala, departed from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport on Monday morning, with all travel and accommodation expenses fully covered by the Nairobi City County Government.
Speaking during the send-off, Ustadh Hassan Amin, Chair of the Council of Imams and Preachers of Kenya, praised the Governor’s generosity:
“Hajj is a deeply spiritual journey. This gesture reflects the Governor’s respect for faith and unity. We are honored and grateful.”
Hajj, one of Islam’s Five Pillars, is a mandatory pilgrimage for all Muslims who are physically and financially able. Taking place during the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah, it commemorates the trials and devotion of Prophet Ibrahim and his family, symbolizing humility, equality, and spiritual renewal.
This initiative marks one of the largest public sponsorships of Hajj travel by a county leader in Kenya and highlights efforts to promote inclusivity and spiritual well-being within Nairobi’s diverse communities.