JEDDAH: Abdul Wahid is head of the Foundation of African pilgrims from non-Arab countries. He spoke to Arab News about the preparations for the upcoming Haj period.
How do you evaluate the current condition of Haj institutions, after having been involved in the servicing of pilgrims for many years?
The Foundation of African pilgrims from non-Arab countries was certified in 1983. Since then, we have been keen on improving its performance. We keep on opening channels to create a closer relationship with all Haj missions and organizations that service pilgrims. We work hard on upgrading the cultural and professional aspects of the work we do in field offices. Programs of education and awareness, training courses, and workshops are some of the initiatives we took to improve the quality, mechanisms and service performance of individuals. We also aim to provide an opportunity for the younger generations that would like to contribute to the service of pilgrims. We want them to take on this profession because it is an outstanding field to work in.
The development of the institution now is well in place. We are taking advantage of past experiences to reinforce the positives and address the negatives to get rid of any errors. We are cooperating fully with the relevant authorities, particularly the Ministry of Haj and other government agencies.
How you evaluate the elections of the boards of the Haj institutions?
An election is a certified and proper way to choose the boards of the Haj institutions. The procedures of these elections are not new, as they first started in 1885. They have remained unchanged, although for a certain period of time they were frozen for particular reasons. They are a means to organize and select a board servicing the pilgrims.
There is a call for the formation of advisory boards for institutions servicing pilgrims. What are your views on this matter?
More than once the minister of Haj has announced that a draft proposal to restructure these institutions would be soon submitted to the Council of Ministers for approval. The new regulations would provide a major shift in the mechanisms of organizing responsibilities and duties of these institutions. We look forward to the adoption of these regulations and plan take advantage of them soon.
Is there a section for female muttawifin (pilgrim guides)?
Women have a post with us in the pilgrim service sector as they follow up some of the services at the Holy sites. They work to preserve the dignity of female pilgrims and work in accordance with Islamic teachings and traditions in ways that are suitable to their energy and ability.
The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques has ordered considerable works, including the development of the Holy Sites, a train service, and expansion of the Mina area in Makkah. How do you see the work of the government sector?
There is no doubt that great development in Makkah, Madinah and the Holy Sites has occurred. We have seen giant steps in that direction. These significant and tangible achievements have also reflected on the services we provide to pilgrims. But there are always big ambitions in addressing and facilitating more projects. As we know, there are still projects that can increase the capacity of Mina and increase service facilities in the Holy Sites, Makkah, and Madinahh.
Are there more organizations similar to yours?
The nature of the regulations on the pilgrim service sector is such that each institution is responsible for pilgrims from a specific geographical area. The Africa Foundation is responsible for pilgrims from the non-Arab African countries. They are now 47 countries, including the State of South Sudan. There are other institutions for Iran, Arab states, South Asia, Southeast Asia, Turkey, Europe, America, and Australia. There is also a regular and ongoing cooperation between officials at the Ministry of Haj and other Haj mission officials to assure integration of various services.
Is there an increase this year in the number of pilgrims?
Yes, we have seen an increase this year, but within the framework of the quota. The increase came from countries that had an unutilized balance from last year and were asked to take advantage of the full balance this year. However, there was no increase in the quotas.
Will the movements of pilgrims be more organized and regulated?
There are regulations supported by the Ministry of Haj to organize a mechanism that eases pilgrim movement from one site to another. This mechanism could also organize the programs and services offered to them in Makkah, Madinahh and the Holy Sites.
There is a coordinating body for pilgrim servicing institutions that oversees coordination between institutions in Makkah, Jeddah, Madinah, and the Ministry of Haj, Public Security, the Ministry of Health, Municipal Affairs and Civil Defense. Thus, there are meetings and constant coordination with all the relevant authorities.
What is the status of monitoring the health of pilgrims?
There are instructions to vaccinate pilgrims before arrival. Vaccination is sometimes given in Jeddah if pilgrims come without a vaccination certificate. This helps with the overall safety of the pilgrims.
What are the instructions regarding the coronavirus?
“As far as I know, the virus has been contained and the Kingdom has taken all the necessary precautions. The situation is under control.”
