Africa-Press – Gambia. The Gambia is preparing for a seamless and well-coordinated 2026 Hajj pilgrimage, with expanded quotas, enhanced services and strict adherence to timelines, Secretary of the Hajj Commission Foday Sambou Ceesay told lawmakers on Tuesday.
Appearing before the National Assembly Select Committee on Regional Government, Lands, Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), Religious Affairs and Ombudsman, Ceesay outlined key lessons learned from the 2025 Hajj, emphasizing that effective planning and collaboration among stakeholders were critical to last year’s success.
He said all travel agencies, airlines and service providers complied with the commission’s requirements, enabling smooth accommodation of pilgrims despite minor scheduling adjustments.
Ceesay confirmed that The Gambia has secured an increased quota for Hajj 2026 to allow more pilgrims to participate, while logistical arrangements — including chartered flights and hotel accommodation in Makkah and Madinah — are being carefully coordinated.
He stressed the importance of early engagement with Saudi authorities to secure essential facilities such as tents, transportation and medical services.
The Secretary also provided updates on preparations for essential services, noting that medical supervision introduced in 2025 will continue, with a dedicated medical team assigned to oversee the welfare of pilgrims.
Transportation plans, including buses linking Mina, Arafat and Muzdalifah, have been designed to prevent congestion and ensure timely access to pilgrimage rituals, he added.
Ceesay further said efforts are being made to retain the same tent locations used last year to ensure continuity and comfort for Gambian pilgrims.
Contracts with service providers have already been initiated to guarantee that food, sanitation and accommodation meet required international standards. He added that Gambia International Airlines (GIA) will remain the main carrier for the government programme, ensuring that at least 90% of flights operate through approved channels.
He urged stakeholders to adhere strictly to timelines for payments, documentation and licensing to facilitate smooth preparations.
Members of the committee welcomed the update and emphasized the need for sustained oversight and early execution of preparatory activities to ensure a successful pilgrimage for Gambian pilgrims.
