1. Hajj & Umrah for South African muslims The Proposed Role of Government

2. It is in the interest of all role-players as well as the South African Government to see an effective Hajj and Umrah Agency. As such all necessary assistance should be provided to reach a permanent workable solution. It should be noted that the Saudi authorities would recognize a representative Hajj and Umrah Agency

3. Proposed role of Government 1. Provider of Consular Services 2. Exercise a watching brief in Saudi Arabia over the interests of South Africans in general and the Pilgrims (Hujjaaj) in particular. 3. Recognise a Hajj & Umrah Agency based on predetermined qualifying criteria. 4. Collaborate with a Hajj & Umrah Agency

4. 1. Provider of Consular Services The DIRCO has a well defined and established role in the provision of Consular Services throughout the world. These services should be documented and made available to the Hujjaaj (see British Foreign Office bulletin) The DIRCO should facilitate & oversee the protocols between a Hajj & Umrah Agency and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. There should be a collaborative relationship between DIRCO and a Hajj & Umrah Agency.

5. 2. Watching Brief As custodian of South African interests DIRCO should be sensitive to the changing political and diplomatic environment in the host country and mitigate negative outcomes for South African Hujjaaj. The DIRCO should consult with a Hajj & Umrah Agency to secure the best outcomes for South African Hujjaaj (e.g. quota allocation for SA)

6. 3. Recognise a Hajj & Umrah agency based on predetermined qualifying criteria 1. A Hajj & Umrah Agency shall comply with requirements of a non-profit association (duly incorporated) acting in the interests of the Hujjaaj and compliant to South African law.

7. 4. Collaborate with a Hajj & Umrah Agency DIRCO shall be responsible to negotiate & ensure compliance of all Hajj Protocols. DIRCO shall secure a multi-year negotiated quota. DIRCO shall provide all diplomatic/ consular support. DIRCO shall secure documentation (e.g. the deceased)

8. Recommendation We will seek an audience with Portfolio committee or Minister, in order to ratify DIRCO and Government roles in Hajj.