By Joseph Momoh, Reporter, Daily Scope
On Sunday, May 11, 2025, Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, H.E. Mohammed S. Barrie, met with H.E. Dr. Tawfiq Al-Rabiah, Minister of Hajj and Umrah Affairs, to discuss opportunities and challenges in Hajj and Umrah operations between the two nations.
Ambassador Barrie expressed gratitude for the Saudi government’s support, highlighting the recent increase in the pilgrim quota from 628 to 2,000 for the 2025 Hajj. He urged for a further increase to 5,000 for the 2026 Hajj, stressing the need for ongoing training, clear communication, and enhanced portal usability.
Key outcomes from the meeting included plans for training sessions on system usage, streamlined registration processes, and increased permits for the Sierra Leonean pilgrims’ support team. The Minister acknowledged the concerns raised by the Ambassador and expressed willingness to visit Sierra Leone.
Discussions also explored potential investments in various sectors, with Saudi Deputy Minister Abdulfattah Bin Sulaiman Mashat proposing a joint visit to Boston, Massachusetts. Minister Al-Rabiah requested joint visits to Freetown and Boston, emphasizing Sierra Leone’s strategic importance due to Ambassador Barrie’s insights into both nations.
Ambassador Barrie highlighted the strong economic ties between the Kingdom and Sierra Leone, showcasing the country’s fertile land and potential for agricultural development.
The meeting concluded with a plea from Ambassador Barrie for an increase in the pilgrim quota to 5,000 for the 2026 Hajj. As a token of appreciation, the Minister presented a gift featuring the Holy Kaaba Landscape.
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