By Urban Shihemi, September 7, 2025
The Kenya Hajj Mission scored 69% in overall performance on planning, contracting, and organizing for this year’s pilgrimage, according to an announcement made today during an online meeting with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah Affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The virtual session focused on preparations for Hajj 2026/1447, where key plans were discussed to improve efficiency, compliance, and service delivery for Kenyan pilgrims.
The meeting addressed key issues including timelines for Hajj compliance, the fight against illegal Hajj campaigns, and strict penalties for individuals and companies found facilitating unauthorized pilgrimages. Saudi officials reiterated their commitment to ensuring smooth and organized services for international pilgrims while urging partner countries to strengthen oversight.
Speaking during the meeting, Hassan Ole Naado, National Chairman of the Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims (SUPKEM), urged Kenyan Muslims intending to perform Hajj to begin preparations early to avoid last-minute challenges.
“Our target is to reach 100% performance in the coming year. We are calling on all intending pilgrims to start their preparations now and make early payments according to their chosen packages, so that Kenya can deliver a fully efficient and compliant Hajj operation,” Ole Naado said.
In a move aimed at enhancing planning and service delivery, a payment deadline for prospective pilgrims has been set for February 2026. This early deadline is designed to allow the Kenya Hajj Mission and accredited agencies sufficient time to finalize all necessary arrangements, including securing accommodation and transport in the holy cities of Mecca and Medina. Pilgrims were advised to make timely payments in line with the categories and classes of services they wish to access during the pilgrimage.
Speaking after the meeting, Hassan Ole Naado, National Chairman of the Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims (SUPKEM), urged Kenyan Muslims to begin preparations early to avoid last-minute challenges.
“We are advising all intending pilgrims to plan in advance and pay early, according to the Hajj packages they prefer, to ensure proper arrangements are made. Early compliance will also help in curbing illegal Hajj campaigns,” said Ole Naado.
The SUPKEM chairman emphasized that early payments are crucial to avoid last-minute complications and to allow for a more efficient and organized Hajj experience for all. The Kenya Hajj Mission has also published a list of accredited Hajj agencies to protect pilgrims from fraudulent operators and to ensure transparency in the pilgrimage arrangements.
In August this year ,the Kenya Hajj Mission announced that 5,000 Kenyans are expected to participate in the 2026/ 1447 Hajj pilgrimage, marking a notable increase from the previous year’s numbers.
The Kenya Hajj Mission attributed the growth to the coordinated efforts of registered Hajj agents and pilgrims who successfully raised the required funds. These resources have already been used to secure key locations in Mina and Arafat, along with essential services.
Hajj 2026 is expected around May 25-30, 2026, corresponding to the 8th to 13th of Dhul-Hijjah 1447.
Full Presser:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ESPvzDXqvz4