Uganda Airlines this week operated its historic inaugural pilgrimage flight for Hajj 2023.
It was an exciting moment as the national career operated its maiden flight to Saudi Arabia for Hajj Pilgrim, a remarkable journey after 40 years.
This was done in partnership with Uganda Hijja Bureau to take Ugandans to Mecca.
The last time the Airline took Muslims on pilgrimage was during the presidency of Idi Amin.
“This is an important day that will see over 500 Ugandans taken to Mecca. History is being made as 500 Muslim pilgrims fly to Mecca aboard the Uganda Airlines Airbus A330, symbolizing a significant milestone for our national carrier,” the airline said on Twitter.
On Monday, the Third Deputy Prime Minister Rukia Nakadama together with Fred Bamwesigye, the Director General of Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA), the Minister of Works and Transport, Gen Katumba Wamala, Ambassador Jamal Rafah and other officials flagged off 250 Muslim pilgrims to Mecca at Entebbe airport using Uganda Airlines.
“I want to thank the Ministry of Works and Transport for giving us Uganda Airlines to take our first batch of pilgrims to Mecca. I want to thank all those who have supported us as Uganda in promoting Uganda Airlines,” said Rt. Hon. Nakadama.
She added: “We all need to be happy that we will be able to make the pilgrimage to Mecca using Uganda Airlines.”
Fred Bamwesigye, UCAA Director General, wished the Muslim brothers and sisters a safe journey.
“Pilgrims contribute to the growth in passenger traffic at Entebbe International Airport, and we are always pleased to facilitate them alongside all the other users of the facilities,” he stated.
“My plea to the pilgrims is that as they embark on their journey, they pray for our Uganda so that even the few insecurity incidents we have seen seize to happen and we are back to a happy and peaceful country,” said Minister Katumba.
He added: “My request to all Ugandans is that we love and be proud of the success we have achieved as a country. It is with great pride to see Ugandans flying on our own Airlines. Let’s support our own to see the country grow to where we want to see it.”
