UMSC SG Assures Order, Inclusivity as Hajj 2026 Preparations Begin

Kampala, Thursday 05 February 2026

In a calm and forward-looking one-on-one interview with Muslim Channel at the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) Headquarters, the Secretary General of UMSC responded positively to concerns surrounding the management of Hajj 2026, reaffirming the Council’s commitment to legality, unity, and pilgrim protection.

Addressing the official stance following the Mufti’s directive, the Secretary General clarified that UMSC remains the legally mandated authority to coordinate Hajj affairs in Uganda. He emphasized that all preparations for Hajj 2026 will proceed strictly within the established legal framework to ensure order and accountability.

On the unity debate, the Secretary General dismissed claims that the Uganda Bureau of Hajj Affairs (UBHA) was the only unifying structure, stressing that UMSC’s approach is deliberately inclusive. He noted that UMSC is engaging all stakeholders—scholars, agents, and community leaders—to guarantee broad participation without marginalization.

Regarding the stoppage of UBHA operations, the Secretary General delivered a clear message: any continued activity outside the Mufti’s formal directive would be irregular. He urged compliance with lawful guidance and encouraged affected parties to engage UMSC constructively for the good of pilgrims.

For registration, intending pilgrims for Hajj 2026 were advised to ensure their details are captured through UMSC-recognized channels and licensed Hajj companies, which will be formally communicated. This, he said, is the only way to be officially recognized during the transition.

On fund security, the Secretary General assured the public that UMSC is putting safeguards in place to protect pilgrims’ payments, including stricter oversight of licensed companies and clearer financial reporting requirements.

Offering guidance to agents and companies, he directed all preparations and reporting to UMSC, noting that a centralized coordination mechanism will streamline communication and reduce confusion.

When asked about joint operations, he confirmed that there is currently no formal cooperation with UBHA for the upcoming season, reiterating that all coordination is being handled by UMSC in line with the Mufti’s guidance.

To address cost controls, the Secretary General said UMSC is instituting transparent pricing benchmarks, early disclosures, and audit checks to curb unexplained fee increments that troubled previous seasons.

On the 2025 backlog, he confirmed that pilgrims who missed Hajj 2025 will be prioritized for clearance in 2026, subject to meeting registration and medical requirements.

Finally, on digital access, the Secretary General revealed plans to manage the Saudi Hajj digital portal more proactively, combining technical support, agent training, and help desks to ensure no pilgrim is left behind.

He concluded by calling for patience, unity, and trust as UMSC finalizes arrangements, reaffirming that the Council’s foremost duty is to safeguard pilgrims’ welfare and the integrity of Hajj.

The full interview is available on Muslim Channel platforms, including the Mobile App on Play Store and iOS.