Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Mimi Mefo Info (Editor)
Published on 2024-04-13 12:24:05
Cameroonian Muslims going on the annual pilgrimage to Mecca have been given over FCFA 1.5 billion to help subsidize their journey. This announcement was made by Cameroon’s Minister of Territorial Administration, Paul Atanga Nji, who also heads the National Hajj Commission.
Minister Atanga Nji described this gesture as an act of kindness from President Biya, stating that a significant amount of 1,560,000,000 CFA francs has been designated to support pilgrims participating in the 2024 Hajj.
In a press release from MINAT, it was mentioned that President Biya, in his generosity, has provided an extra grant of 1,560,000,000 CFA francs to allow more faithful individuals to perform the holy pilgrimage. This support is intended to reduce the cost of the journey and enhance the experience of pilgrims in the Holy Land.
The Minister confirmed that the funds will be fairly distributed among pilgrims at departure airports, with special bank counters set up to facilitate the process. The financial aid from President Biya has helped keep the cost of Hajj transportation steady over the past few years, despite economic challenges.
Each pilgrim is required to contribute FCFA 3,267,942 towards the pilgrimage expenses. However, with the government subsidy, the financial burden on pilgrims is significantly lessened. President Biya has also provided special gifts, including 4,188 cans of 5-liter holy water “Zam-Zam” per pilgrim and transportation fare for their return journey after Hajj.
Registration for the Hajj pilgrimage closed on March 15, with a total of 4,188 Muslims scheduled to undertake the journey this year, an increase of 1,023 pilgrims compared to the previous year. The 2024 Hajj is set to happen from June 14 to 19, signifying a crucial religious event for Muslims globally.
The Hajj pilgrimage, regarded as the fifth pillar of Islam, holds profound significance for believers and serves as a symbol of unity and faith. For financially and physically able Muslims, the Hajj presents a unique opportunity to fulfill their religious obligations and strengthen their spiritual connection to the Islamic faith.
Read the original article(French) on Mimi Mefo Info
