Speaking to National Assembly Members during discussions with the National Hajj Commission, Minister Bah stated firmly that there is no justification for any hike in the Hajj package prices. “We have no intention of increasing the Hajj package next year. There is absolutely no justification for it,” the Minister remarked, addressing concerns raised by Gambians at home and abroad regarding the affordability of the sacred journey.
Minister Assures No Increase in Hajj Prices for 2025
The Honorable Minister of Lands and Religious Affairs, Hamat Bah, has assured the public that there are no plans to increase the cost of the Hajj pilgrimage for the upcoming 2025 season. Speaking to National Assembly Members during discussions with the National Hajj Commission, Minister Bah stated firmly that there is no justification for any hike in the Hajj package prices.
“We have no intention of increasing the Hajj package next year. There is absolutely no justification for it,” the Minister remarked, addressing concerns raised by Gambians at home and abroad regarding the affordability of the sacred journey.
Addressing the High Cost of Hajj
The cost of performing Hajj in The Gambia has been a topic of considerable debate, with many observing that it is among the highest in West Africa. In 2024, pilgrims paid between D498,000 and D531,000 for the journey, prompting concerns that the high cost is limiting access to only the wealthiest individuals.
This acknowledgment by Minister Bah reflects the government’s awareness of these concerns and its commitment to ensuring that the pilgrimage remains accessible to a broader spectrum of Gambians.
“We have no intention of increasing the Hajj package next year. There is absolutely no justification for it,”
– Hon. Amat Bah
Commitment to Affordability
The National Hajj Commission has consistently worked to improve the services offered to pilgrims, but the government now appears to be taking a closer look at the financial aspect of the journey. By maintaining or possibly reducing the cost of Hajj, the government aims to make the pilgrimage more inclusive, enabling more Gambians to fulfill this important pillar of Islam.
Collaboration with Stakeholders
Efforts to ensure the cost of Hajj remains stable will likely involve continued collaboration with key partners in Saudi Arabia, including the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and service providers responsible for accommodation, transport, and catering for Gambian pilgrims. Transparent negotiations and efficient planning will be critical in achieving this goal.
A Shared Hope for 2025
Minister Bah’s reassurance has been welcomed by many, particularly those planning to embark on the sacred journey in 2025. As the government finalizes its decisions and agreements for the upcoming pilgrimage season, this commitment to affordability serves as a significant step toward addressing the financial barriers many Gambians face.
The National Hajj Commission, alongside the government, remains steadfast in its mission to ensure that the Hajj experience is both spiritually fulfilling and financially accessible for all eligible Gambians.
