Sierra Leone Mission in Saudi Arabia Unites Umrah Pilgrims for Eid Al-Fitr Feast.

One hundred Sierra Leonean Umrah pilgrims broke their fast together in Makkah on Friday, joining for a celebratory Eid Al-Fitr dinner hosted by their nation’s embassy in partnership with Saudi philanthropist Saleh Zahrani. The gathering unfolded immediately following Eid prayers, transforming the sacred city into a stage for fellowship and gratitude after the completion of Ramadan 1447.

Deputy Ambassador Alhaji Abdul Aziz Turay opened the proceedings with a message of congratulations, commending the pilgrims for their spiritual journey and the discipline of a month-long fast. He extended appreciation to President Dr. Julius Maada Bio and Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh for their steadfast support of Sierra Leone’s Muslim community, particularly in facilitating Hajj and Umrah observances. Describing Eid as a moment of profound significance, Turay urged the congregation to celebrate with hearts full of thanksgiving.

Delivering the keynote address, Ambassador H.E. Mohammed Barrie expressed pride in hosting the banquet, acknowledging the generosity of philanthropist Saleh Zahrani, whose partnership made the event possible. Barrie reflected on the responsibility entrusted to him by President Bio and Vice President Jalloh, noting his concurrent role as Ambassador to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Sultanate of Oman, the State of Syria, and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). He called on attendees to offer prayers for the President’s continued health and wisdom, underscoring the weight of national leadership.

Special prayers were led by Sheikh Bailor Barrie, a Sierra Leonean scholar based in the United Kingdom. The cleric sought divine acceptance of the faithful’s fasting and supplications, offering blessings for President Bio, the government, and Sierra Leoneans worldwide. Speaking on behalf of fellow pilgrims, Sheikh Barrie lauded the embassy’s consistency, noting that since 2023, the mission has remained the sole diplomatic representation he knows to organise such dedicated Eid gatherings for Umrah pilgrims each year.

Saleh Zahrani, the Saudi benefactor behind the dinner, pledged continued collaboration with Sierra Leone’s diplomatic mission, commending the leadership and staff for their commitment to serving citizens abroad.

Alhaji Abubakarr Bah

Information Attaché

Embassy of Sierra Leone, Riyadh