Sakaja funds flights for 47 Imams heading for Hajj in Saudi Arabia

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has sponsored more than 47 imams from disadvantaged neighborhoods in Nairobi to perform Hajj in Mecca.

He personally funded all their travel and accommodation expenses, describing the pilgrimage as a major spiritual achievement for the clerics.

The group was officially sent off from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), where the religious leaders conveyed their heartfelt thanks to the Governor.

During the farewell, Ustadh Hassan Ally Amin, Chairperson of the Council of Imams and Preachers of Kenya, highlighted the profound spiritual importance of the journey:

We are privileged by Allah to go and worship Him. We thank the Governor for his gesture in supporting this group,” Amin said.

"This is an honors and an important journey for every Muslim."

He further explained that Hajj is more than just a physical trip; it is a deep expression of humility, devotion, and self-reflection that strengthens the fundamental principles of Islam and the unity of Muslims worldwide.

"If you cannot thank those who have supported you, you cannot truly thank Allah. That is why we deeply appreciate the Governor’s support in enabling us to undertake this significant journey," he stated.

The group of Imams represented different areas across Nairobi, including Kibera, Majengo, Maringo, and Utawala, among others.

Zacharia Abdalla, Imam of Pumwani Mosque, also extended his thanks to Governor Sakaja for sponsoring the imams.

Abdalla expressed his appreciation for the governor’s support during this significant occasion.

"We are grateful to the governor and will pray that Allah blesses you. Your kindness will always be remembered," he said.

Kahawa MCA Eutychus Mukiri described Hajj as a once-in-a-lifetime experience and said it is a great honor for Kenyan imams to be part of it.

"This is a unique opportunity, and our imams are attending thanks to Governor Sakaja," he remarked.

"He recognized the importance of joining Muslims worldwide for Hajj and made it possible by sponsoring our trip to Saudi Arabia."

The imams departed Kenya at 7 pm on Sunday, May 25, 2025.

In footage reviewed by Amateur, the imams were seen with their luggage at JKIA just before their departure.

Hajj, one of the Five Pillars of Islam, is a compulsory religious obligation for Muslims who are physically and financially capable of undertaking the pilgrimage.

It symbolizes a profound spiritual journey centered on faith, equality, and submission to Allah.