The story of a Sudanese pilgrim: The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' Guests Program fulfills her dream
A story of struggle that spanned three decades in Kordofan
Sudanese pilgrim Aziza Koko never imagined that the day would come when she would set foot in the holiest of places to perform the Hajj pilgrimage, after a long journey of hardship and arduous work that spanned more than thirty years. Aziza spent those decades selling pastries in Sudan's Kordofan state to provide for her children, amidst difficult living conditions and extremely limited resources. For many years, she woke up every day to light a fire and prepare the simple pastries she sold for an income of no more than one dollar a day—an amount barely enough to cover basic necessities. Yet, despite the harsh realities and her dire circumstances, the dream of performing Hajj remained alive in her heart.
As she grew older, and her eyesight deteriorated significantly due to the daily smoke from the firewood, she was forced to stop working. At that moment, she thought her dream of visiting the Holy Kaaba was becoming unattainable, and that she might pass away before seeing it.
The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' Guests Program: A Glimmer of Hope
But by the grace of God Almighty, and then by the hospitality of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud – may God protect him – years of hardship were transformed into overwhelming joy. This came as part of the “Guests of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Program for Hajj, Umrah, and Visitation,” implemented and supervised by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance. Hajjah Aziza was chosen, along with other relatives of Sudanese martyrs who participated in Operation Decisive Storm, to perform Hajj this year.
Historical context and importance of the program
The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' Guests Program for Hajj, Umrah, and Visitation is one of the most prominent Islamic and humanitarian initiatives undertaken by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Launched many years ago, this program aims to host thousands of Muslims from around the world at the personal expense of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques. The program targets diverse groups, including the families of martyrs who made great sacrifices in defense of the causes of the Arab and Islamic nations, such as the Sudanese forces participating in the Arab Coalition to Support Legitimacy in Yemen. This program reflects the deep fraternal and historical ties between the Kingdom and Islamic countries, and underscores Saudi Arabia's leading role in serving Islam and Muslims, as well as its appreciation for the sacrifices of martyrs.
The initiative's impact locally and regionally
Regionally and internationally, this hosting leaves a profound impact on Muslim communities, reinforcing the values of Islamic unity and solidarity. It also highlights the tremendous efforts of the Kingdom's government in facilitating the performance of Hajj for Muslims whose financial or social circumstances prevent them from fulfilling this dream. Hosting the families of martyrs is a message of loyalty and appreciation from the Saudi leadership, resonating positively with both the public and official circles in brotherly nations.
Tears of joy in the holy city of Mecca
With a voice filled with tears and feelings of joy, Hajja Aziza spoke after arriving in Mecca and performing Tawaf, Sa’i and prayer in the Grand Mosque, saying: “I thought I would die before seeing the Holy Kaaba, as my living conditions were very difficult, and I could not even afford the costs of transportation outside Kordofan, so how could I afford Hajj, travel and accommodation?”.
She added: “When I was informed that I would be among the guests of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, I was overwhelmed with joy, and I thanked God profusely and prayed for the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques to have a long life and success, because he fulfilled the greatest wish of my life.”.
Praise for the Kingdom's efforts and its leadership
The Sudanese pilgrim praised the exceptional care and attention she received from the moment she arrived in the Kingdom, emphasizing that the warm welcome, generous hospitality, and seamless organization filled her with happiness and peace of mind. She said, “Since our arrival, we have received every care, comfort, and attention, and I have never felt such happiness in my entire life.”.
In closing, Aziza offered her sincere prayers for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, its leadership and people, appreciating the great efforts it makes in serving the guests of God and taking care of pilgrims from various countries around the world, asking God to protect the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and His Crown Prince, and to perpetuate the Kingdom’s security, stability and prosperity.
