The Gambia Hajj Commission, officially known as the Office of The Gambia Pilgrims Affairs, is a government-constituted body responsible for organizing and coordinating all activities related to the annual Hajj pilgrimage for Gambian Muslims. Hajj, one of the Five Pillars of Islam, is a religious obligation involving a journey to the Kaaba, the “House of Allah,” in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. The commission acts as a liaison between The Gambia, the Saudi government, and licensed Hajj operators, ensuring a smooth pilgrimage experience.
The Gambia Hajj Commission: Organizing Pilgrimage for Gambian Muslims
The head of the commission, known as Amir Ul Hajj (Chairman of the National Hajj Commission), along with its members and Secretary General, is appointed by the President of The Gambia. The commission provides comprehensive support to pilgrims, including medical assistance, logistical coordination, and travel facilitation. For instance, in 2024, the commission secured an ambulance for pilgrims, funded through community donations.
What Are the Functions of the Gambia-Hajj Commission
The following outlines the key functions of the Gambia-Hajj Commission:
Policy Advisory and Annual Planning:
The commission advises the President on Hajj-related policies and organizes an annual conference to review past operations and propose improvements for the upcoming pilgrimage. Senior officials from the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Civil Aviation Authority also participate in these reviews.Travel Agency Oversight:
Licensed private travel agencies are assigned quotas and monitored to ensure compliance with standards. Agencies that fail to meet expectations may face penalties, including license revocation and fines. The mission also mandates each agency to provide knowledgeable male and female guides, along with a doctor and nurse, to support pilgrims.Accommodation and Catering Supervision:
Before pilgrims depart, the commission inspects accommodations in Mecca and Medina, as well as catering arrangements, to ensure they meet required standards.Hajj Visa and Documentation Facilitation:
The commission works with the Gambia Immigration Department to expedite passport issuance for pilgrims. To process a Hajj visa, pilgrims must submit their passports, vaccination certificates, and passport-sized photos.Health and Safety Support:
The commission provides medical teams during the pilgrimage to ensure regular check-ups and medication adherence. Vaccines for meningitis and polio are arranged in collaboration with health departments.Logistics and Flight Coordination:
The commission finalizes flight schedules, informs pilgrims of their departure dates, and ensures they arrive at the airport on time.Education and Awareness:
Licensed travel agencies are tasked with sensitizing pilgrims about Hajj rituals to prepare them mentally and physically for the journey.Contracts and Agreements:
The commission oversees the signing of contracts, including the Mina contract with the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, ensuring all logistical aspects are covered.
Achievements
The Gambia Hajj Commission has received commendations for its efforts, including awards during the 2023 Hajj season. President Barrow praised the commission and Gambian pilgrims for their success, highlighting the dedication of the commission in facilitating a meaningful and smooth pilgrimage experience.
Through its efforts, the Gambia Hajj Commission remains committed to serving Gambian Muslims, ensuring their Hajj journey is spiritually fulfilling and logistically