Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL) – The Gambia Hajj Commission recently briefed the National Assembly’s select committee on Lands, Regional Government, Ombudsman, and IEC to provide an update on its preparations for the upcoming 2024 Hajj pilgrimage.

The Commission’s Secretary-General, Foday Ceesay, highlighted several setbacks faced by the commission, including missing the first payment deadline set by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah due to operators’ reliance on pilgrim payments. This led to the Gambia’s allotment being moved to Zone 4, instead of its desired Zone 2 location at Mina.

Ceesay also expressed concerns about the Ministry of Religious Affairs’ inadequate financial support and the use of an outdated ambulance for Gambian pilgrims in Saudi Arabia. He emphasized the need for additional financing to cover costs and the acquisition of a new ambulance.

Despite these challenges, Ceesay remained optimistic and grateful for the support received. He assured the committee that the commission is dedicated to ensuring a successful Hajj trip in 2024 for Gambian pilgrims, despite the obstacles. Steps are being taken to address the issues and improve communication with the Saudi Ministry of Umrah and Hajj.

The committee is also exploring ways to enhance the overall experience for pilgrims, given the move to Zone 4. Ceesay expressed gratitude to commissioners, employees, the Ministry, the Office of the President, and the Central Bank of the Gambia for their support.

Ceesay noted that 60% of services had been successfully processed through the E-system, thanks to substantial assistance from operators. He also provided information on the prices of Hajj packages offered by different travel companies for the 2024 season, which were determined based on the currency rate set by the Central Bank of the Gambia.

The Operators’ rates per travel agencies are as follows:

Gambia International Airline: D 498,995

Amana Travel and Tours: D 523,474

Banjul Travel Agency: D 524,550

Alfaz Travel Agency: D 531,275

Maya Global Travel Agency: D 529,795

Crossbreed Travels: D 529,930

Continental Travels: D 530,131

Alhuda Travel Agency: D 531,275

Tivaouane Travel and Tours: D 531,275

Groupo Soninkara Travel Agency: D 531,275

Orbit Travel Agency: D 531,275

Algasimou Travel Agency: D 531,275

Travel Express Agency: D 531,275