Members of the Muslim community, yesterday, gathered at the Islamic Cultural Centre in the Kigali suburb of Nyamirabo to welcome 84 of their colleagues who have just returned from the annual pilgrimage in Mecca, Saudi Arabia.

Addressing the gathering, Kigali City Imam, Yunsu Musumba, reminded the pilgrims of their responsibilities.

"When you go against the Islamic principles or engage in any other illegal activities, the public will not judge you as an individual. Instead, Islam will be criticised since you are Hajat or Hajji,” Musumba said.

He explained that to ensure a successful pilgrimage, it should impact pilgrims not only to live up to the Islamic virtues, but also to play a significant role in building the religion.

Speaking on behalf of the pilgrims, Hajji Isaac Munyakazi, appreciated the Rwanda Muslim Association (AMUR) for ensuring their journey to and from the three-week ritual went on smoothly.

"A pilgrimage may seem to be costly, but the money you spend cannot be compared with what you gain,” Munyakazi said.

Each pilgrimage paid close to US$3,000 to embark on the trip.

He called upon Muslims to work hard, reminding each of them that their turn to visit Mecca would come as well.

Hajjat Zamzam Kalume said: "When you get there, you realise there is a big change in your life considering the faith one develops while there, especially after witnessing things you have been learning and reading about.”

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