The Gambia’s Hajj stakeholders have taken a significant step toward ensuring effective planning, coordination, and delivery of services for Gambian pilgrims ahead of Hajj 2026.
This commitment was underscored by a recently concluded verification mission to Saudi Arabia, led by the Ministry of Regional Government, Lands and Religious Affairs in collaboration with the National Assembly’s Select Committee on Regional Government, Lands, Ombudsman, and the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC).
Hon. Sulayman Jammeh, Chair of the NA Committee on Religious Matters, emphasized that the initiative reflects the government’s dedication to improving the Hajj experience for Gambian pilgrims. “The visit provided an opportunity to engage with Saudi authorities and service providers, and to verify arrangements being made to support the successful conduct of the pilgrimage,” he said.
The mission focused on assessing readiness, quality, and adequacy of logistical, administrative, and welfare arrangements. It also sought to identify gaps and propose practical recommendations to enhance service delivery.
Delegation Members
- Hon. Sulayman Jammeh – Chairman, Select Committee on Regional Government, Lands, Ombudsman and IEC
- Ndaye Marie Njie – Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Regional Government, Lands and Religious Affairs
- Hon. Omar Jobe – Member, Select Committee on Regional Government, Lands, Ombudsman and IEC
Mission Objectives
- Inspecting accommodation facilities
- Assessing feeding arrangements
- Evaluating services in Mina and Arafat
- Ensuring overall preparedness for Gambian pilgrims in Makkah and Madinah
The joint mission marks a proactive step in guaranteeing that Gambian pilgrims will benefit from well-coordinated services and a smooth spiritual journey during Hajj 2026.
