Ouagadougou: The Ministry in charge of Religious Affairs has called on stakeholders involved in the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca to exhibit conduct that honors Burkina Faso at the various holy sites. The ministry emphasized that undignified behaviors will not be tolerated during this religious event. According to Burkina Information Agency, the Secretary General of the Ministry of Religious Affairs, Saïdou Sankara, made this clear during a meeting in Ouagadougou on Monday, May 4, 2026. This gathering included the Minister in charge of religious affairs and the stakeholders of the pilgrimage, focusing on final instructions before the departures. Sankara stressed that any behavior that could tarnish the image of Burkina Faso will be subject to sanctions according to the existing regulations. The Secretary General, representing the minister, reminded the future pilgrims of their role as representatives of Burkina Faso in these holy places. He urged them to fully assume this responsibility, highlighting the importa nce of their conduct during the pilgrimage. Mr. Sankara noted an improvement in the organization of the 2026 pilgrimage and commended the dedication of all parties involved in the process. He acknowledged the efforts of the National Pilgrimage Monitoring Committee, the Federation of Islamic Associations, travel and tourism agencies, and other central figures in the organization of the Hajj. Their recommendations and commitment have been crucial, according to him, in achieving this improvement. He further encouraged stakeholders to remain attentive and active to ensure the success of the 2026 Hajj. Sankara attributed these achievements to the incorporation of Hajj organization into the broader governance reform dynamic within the country, led by President of Faso, Captain Ibrahim Traore. The government had previously passed a decree in October 2025, placing the organization of religious pilgrimages under the control of the Burkinabe state. This move signifies the State's intention to enhance governance and affirm its sovereignty in the organization of these significant events, as explained by Mr. Sankara. The inaugural flight for the 2026 Hajj is set to depart from Ouagadougou on Wednesday, May 6, 2026.