Africa-Press – Gambia. The National Assembly on Thursday adopted the report of its Select Committee on Regional Government, Lands, Ombudsman, and the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), following an oversight mission to Saudi Arabia to assess preparations for Gambian pilgrims ahead of the 2025 Hajj.
Presented during the Third Ordinary Session of the 2025 Legislative Year, the report detailed the findings of a delegation led by Hon. Sulayman Jammeh, and included Hon. Musa Badjie, Hon. Alieu Baldeh, and Imam Ebrima Cham of the Hajj Commission. The delegation conducted its mission from April 15 to 23, visiting key Hajj cities Madina and Mecca.
The mission involved inspections of hotels, catering services, and transport arrangements designated for Gambian pilgrims. According to the report, facilities in both cities were found to be “adequate and well-suited” in terms of hygiene, comfort, and proximity to the holy sites.
The delegation commended the inclusion of Gambian chefs in the catering services, noting that it would help preserve traditional dishes such as domoda and benachin for pilgrims during their stay.
However, the report also highlighted concerns raised by the Gambian Consulate in Jeddah, which reported being excluded from the early stages of the inspection process. The Consulate emphasized the importance of their formal involvement in future missions, citing their institutional knowledge and proximity to Hajj operations.
In Mecca, the delegation received assurances from Al-Khama Hotel Operating Company that one of the best-located hotels near the Ka’aba had been reserved for Gambian pilgrims. The report also mentioned the provision of shuttle services for elderly pilgrims and the allocation of two large restaurants to cater meals throughout the pilgrimage.
The Committee made several recommendations, including improved coordination between the Hajj Commission, hotel management, and the Gambian Consulate. Regular monitoring of food, transport, and accommodation services during the Hajj. Increased government subvention to the Hajj Commission to strengthen operations. Early payments to secure better accommodation locations, especially in Mina.
During deliberations, lawmakers endorsed the findings, praising the delegation for their thorough assessment. Some members suggested that future oversight missions should include a National Assembly Clerk to enhance documentation and oversight.
The report concluded that, with proper implementation of the recommendations, Gambian pilgrims are expected to experience a safe, dignified, and spiritually fulfilling Hajj in 2025.
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