Source:tolonradio.com/Abdul Shakun Omae
The Interim Hajj Taskforce, constituted by President John Dramani Mahama, has announced a significant reduction in the cost of the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage, setting the fare at GH¢62,000. This represents a 17.3% decrease from the previous year’s GH¢75,000 fare.
At a press briefing in Accra on Wednesday, the Chairman of the taskforce, Alhaji Collins Dauda, revealed that the reduction was made possible through successful negotiations with Ghana’s Hajj service providers in Saudi Arabia. The new fare, equivalent to $4,130 at an exchange rate of GH¢15 to $1, marks a substantial drop from last year’s $6,500 charge.
According to Alhaji Dauda, the decision to reduce the fare aligns with President Mahama’s commitment to making Hajj affordable for the average Ghanaian Muslim, fulfilling a campaign promise made to the Muslim community before the 2024 General Elections.
GH¢81.1 Million Hajj Debt Discovered
The taskforce also disclosed an accumulated debt of $5,409,526.66 (GH¢81,142,899.90) left behind by the previous Hajj administration. The breakdown of the debt includes:
• $4,429,260 owed to Flynas, the airline responsible for transporting Ghanaian pilgrims.
• $446,933 in unpaid fees to catering service providers in Saudi Arabia.
• $533,333 owed for education and teaching services during the pilgrimage.
Alhaji Collins Dauda announced that the government will initiate an investigation into the financial mismanagement that led to this debt.
Renegotiations Yield Favorable Results
The taskforce capitalized on the recent Hajj Conference in Saudi Arabia to renegotiate contracts with service providers. These diplomatic efforts led to a significant reduction in costs, ultimately benefiting Ghanaian pilgrims.
Alhaji Dauda assured the public that the government remains committed to transparency, efficiency, and affordability in managing Hajj operations going forward. He encouraged Ghanaian Muslims to take advantage of the lower fare and begin preparations for the 2025 pilgrimage.
This reduction is expected to ease the financial burden on prospective pilgrims and reinforce the government’s commitment to ensuring a smooth and affordable Hajj experience.
