RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Makkah Route Initiative is transforming the Hajj journey for thousands of pilgrims this year, with stories emerging from across Africa that highlight the program’s humanitarian reach as Muslims worldwide prepare for the annual pilgrimage beginning on May 25. Among the most poignant scenes reported by the Saudi Press Agency was that of a Moroccan pilgrim more than 100 years old is seen departing from Rabat-Salé International Airport, leaning on a walking stick as he quietly recited the talbiyah before boarding his flight to Saudi Arabia.