Press Release

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – 25 September 2015: The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, on behalf of the Commission and its staff, the Union and the rest of the continent, expressed her grief on the passing of over 700 people in a stampede near the holy city of Mecca, in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, on Thursday 24th September 2015.

“The continent of Africa collectively joins me in praying for the souls of those who perished in this tragic accident during the holy pilgrimage. Our thoughts are with the bereaved families. We hope that their hearts find solace in this holy period. We also pray for the speedy recovery for all those injured,” said Dr. Dlamini Zuma after learning of unfortunate accident.

The stampede occurred on a street in Mina, Saudi Arabia, on Thursday 24 September 2015, where approximately two million Muslims were performing the annual hajj pilgrim, one of the pillars of the Muslim faith.