MOGADISHU, Somalia – Somalia’s Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre on Tuesday evening praised his government’s progress in reforming Hajj pilgrimage services, calling it a major step toward transparency and improved delivery for Somali pilgrims.
Speaking at a ceremony in Mogadishu to launch the 1447/2026 Hajj season and officially close last year’s pilgrimage, Barre said his administration, known as DanQaran, had introduced sweeping changes aimed at improving accountability and service quality.
“When we came into office, there were widespread complaints about the Hajj services — from accommodation and transportation to food and coordination,” the Prime Minister said. “We made it a priority to fix these issues, even when facing strong resistance from those who opposed reform.”
Barre urged Somali religious scholars to partner with the Ministry of Endowments and Religious Affairs to educate pilgrims ahead of departure, ensuring they understand the rituals and routes of the pilgrimage. He also instructed that only scholars and medical personnel accompany pilgrims to provide proper guidance and care.
Somalia’s Minister of Religion and Islamic Affairs, Mukhtaar Robow, announced during the event that the Hajj pilgrimage will cost $4,543 this year, part of a broader effort to streamline access for Somali pilgrims by 2026.
Robow also addressed recent allegations of corruption, firmly denying any wrongdoing during his three-year tenure overseeing Hajj operations. He emphasized his ministry’s commitment to transparency and serving the public.
Prime Minister Barre commended the ministry’s efforts, calling the reforms “proof that Somalia is moving forward — building trust, improving public services, and laying the groundwork for sustainable development.”
