Kenyan Muslims planning to travel for next year’s Hajj have been cautioned against using brokers and unregistered travel agencies.
The Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims (SUPKEM) announced that going forward, it will be the sole body responsible for handling all travel documentation and logistics for Muslims intending to perform the Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca.
Speaking during a planning meeting, SUPKEM officials emphasised that the council is the only legally mandated institution to coordinate the Hajj journey and warned that any individuals or agencies operating outside this framework will be treated as unlawful.
SUPKEM Chairperson Hassan Ole Naado said, “Apart from identification and listing, we are also working on a code of conduct which every entity and individual involved will be required to sign. Any other person or unlawful operative involved in the process will not be allowed.”
Mudhar Khitami, Chair of the SUPKEM Hajj Committee, noted that once the verification process is complete, a list of certified and approved travel agents will be published in local dailies and displayed in mosques.
This directive follows complaints from a section of Kenyans who, during the most recent Hajj, missed accommodation, transport, and other essential services despite having made full payments to unofficial agents.
SUPKEM has since suspended seven agencies found to have violated Hajj travel regulations and guidelines.
Defending the suspensions, Ole Naado said, “These were clear directives and regulations that most of these agencies flouted. They also politicised very sensitive religious matters, which is not allowed in Kenya.”
Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam and is considered a mandatory religious duty for all able-bodied and financially capable Muslims to perform at least once in their lifetime. It is a deeply spiritual journey that signifies submission to Allah and unity among Muslims worldwide.
The pilgrimage takes place annually during the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijjah and involves a series of rituals performed over several days in and around Mecca, Saudi Arabia. Key activities include the Tawaf (circling the Kaaba), standing at Mount Arafat, and the symbolic stoning of the devil in Mina.
Hajj carries profound spiritual significance, offering believers a chance to seek forgiveness, renew their faith, and reflect on humility and equality before God.
Pilgrims are expected to follow strict guidelines during the rituals, making preparation and proper coordination essential.
