2023-06-21 18:40:10
Pilgrims from all over the world began to rally Mecca a few weeks ago to perform Hajj-2023. Except that this year, the Saudi authorities do not allow any pilgrim to board with medication. A real headache. Already two Guinean pilgrims have died in Mecca from illnesses. It remains to be seen whether it is really the lack of medication that is the cause.
The regulation prohibiting travel with medication does not only concern Guinea. Yet many people are on treatment around the world. Being forced to stop their medical care could prove fatal for those who suffer from illnesses to be stabilized such as High Blood Pressure and Diabetes.
Pilgrims in danger
If some can be consulted in Saudi health structures, this option is not possible for others due to lack of financial means. A disastrous situation that could cause the deterioration of the health of many of them.
On this worrying subject, the senior adviser to the Ministry of Health and Public Hygiene, Bachir Kanté, says he is surprised. He recognizes all the same that the Saudi authorities prohibit the introduction of drugs by third parties. “Sending medicine parcels is strictly prohibited unless they are among the medicines previously approved by the ministry. If not, they pick up the package at the airport.”
Regarding the death cases, this would be the first news for him. He says he has not been arrested on “any case of death linked to a lack of medicine”. However, he promises to investigate.
Candidates blocked in Conakry
Meanwhile in Conakry, at least 82 pilgrims are desperately waiting to embark for Saudi Arabia for lack of visas. A problem attributed to the Saudi authorities, but already resolved according to Jean Édouard Sagno, chief of staff of the General Secretariat for Religious Affairs. “We have just obtained the 82 visas. What we have left now is to bring in the plane”. While Jeddah airport will be closed on Thursday 22nd June from 00:00. Édouard Sagno explains that “a last plane will be chartered for the last Hajj candidates. Except that before taking off, it would be necessary to obtain authorization to land in Saudi Arabia, before the airport closes”.
To date, 10,200 pilgrims have been conveyed. These 82 remaining candidates will be able to complete the quota of 10,300 pilgrims granted to Guinea.
Mayamba Traoré (Intern)
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