Gambian Lawmakers Probe Airline Over Millions in Unpaid Hajj Ticket Loans

The Public Enterprises Committee (PEC) of The Gambia’s National Assembly has raised concerns over Gambia International Airlines (GIA) regarding unpaid Hajj ticket loans totaling approximately D1.6 million Dalasi.

Lawmakers questioned the airline’s slow recovery process and weak financial oversight during a review of GIA’s 2022 financial statements on Monday.

According to GIA’s Managing Director, Numo K. Sanneh, the outstanding sums relate to loans issued for Hajj tickets to individuals and families, some backed by personal guarantees. While the airline has recovered about D250,000, the majority of the debt remains unpaid, prompting warnings from committee members that continued delays could undermine public confidence and the airline’s financial sustainability.

The PEC sought clarification on systems used to monitor loan repayments. Mr Sanneh admitted that GIA has not effectively tracked all outstanding payments, allowing arrears to accumulate over time.

He also explained that some cash balances reflected in the airline’s bank accounts represent deposits held on behalf of ticket purchasers, rather than company funds, further complicating recovery efforts.

“Most of these debts relate to tickets that have already been issued. Some individuals continue to take tickets while still owing,” he told lawmakers, highlighting the challenge of balancing service provision with financial accountability.

The committee discussed enforcement mechanisms, including collaboration with the State-Owned Enterprises (SOE) Commission and relevant ministries, to ensure repayment of government-supported ticket loans.

In addition to the loan issue, PEC members reviewed GIA’s procurement and cash management practices, including its reliance on overdrafts to cover operational costs. Mr Sanneh attributed rising overdraft levels to revenue pressures but said steps are being taken to improve monitoring and compliance.

The review concluded with calls for GIA and relevant government stakeholders to strengthen debt recovery frameworks, tighten financial controls, and prevent outstanding loans from further affecting the operations of the state-owned airline.

Bakary Touray Jr