This year, 2,000 Gambian pilgrims have been officially registered to perform the Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia. They will be accompanied by a delegation of 20 officials, including medical staff, to support the journey.
The first group of pilgrims is scheduled to depart at midnight on May 14. The remaining pilgrims will travel in five separate flights, with one flight per day between May 15 and May 19.
Ahead of the pilgrimage, officials from the National Hajj Commission held a sensitisation session at Paradise Suites Hotel to prepare the pilgrims for their spiritual journey. The event aimed to help participants get acquainted and understand what to expect in Mecca.
Alhajie Ousman Jah, a former Hajj Commission member, highlighted the importance of the gathering, while Sheikh Essa Foday Darboe, president of the Supreme Islamic Council, encouraged pilgrims to remain spiritually focused and keep God in their hearts throughout the pilgrimage.
For the first time, Gambia International Airlines is partnering with GEWAN Investment Solution to handle the transportation of pilgrims, according to Baboucarr Fatty of the airline.
Imam Ebrima Jarju, the mission head of the Hajj Commission, expressed gratitude to all officials involved for their efforts in ensuring thorough preparation for the trip.
