Ghana Hajj must never be a platform for exploitation President Mahama warns
President John Dramani Mahama has issued a firm caution to the Ghana Hajj Board, stressing that the annual pilgrimage must never become a platform for profiteering or exploitation. Addressing Muslim leaders, officials, and community representatives during the inauguration of the newly constituted Hajj Board and the sod-cutting for the new Hajj Village, the President emphasized that Hajj is a sacred obligation and not a commercial venture.
Mahama stated that every cedi entrusted to the Board by pilgrims must be handled with transparency and accountability. According to him, if the Board completes its operational duties and finds that even “one cedi is left,” that money must be reinvested into the welfare of Muslim communities, especially in underserved Zongo areas. He stressed that surplus funds should support charitable projects, community development initiatives, and improvements in pilgrimage services rather than private gain.
As part of his address, the President highlighted the need for the Board to operate with the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and discipline. He charged the newly appointed members to rebuild public confidence by demonstrating honesty and competence in every aspect of their work. Mahama outlined five non-negotiable priorities for the Board: early planning, predictable scheduling, strict financial accountability, pilgrims’ welfare, and active engagement with all stakeholders.
He also criticized past challenges in Hajj administration, including hidden charges, unofficial levies, and unclear payment channels. Mahama insisted that all financial transactions must be conducted openly, through approved systems, with full clarity for pilgrims regarding what they are paying for. He warned that any attempt to commercialize the sacred journey would be met with firm action.
During the event, Mahama also launched the construction of a modern Hajj Village — a facility designed to serve as a comprehensive support center for pilgrims. The project is expected to include a clinic, prayer space, marketplace, accommodation area, and other amenities intended to ease the stress of preparation before departure to Mecca. According to the President, the new Hajj Village must function beyond being a mere departure terminal; it should be a dignified space that reflects the importance of the pilgrimage.
In his broader message, Mahama acknowledged ongoing appeals from Muslim leaders for a consistent and well-structured Hajj management framework. He noted that his administration is committed to establishing a permanent and reliable system that will outlive political cycles and ensure smooth operations yearly.
He further urged the Board to adopt modern management systems, including the integration of digital platforms for monitoring payments, tracking pilgrims, and ensuring transparency in reporting. These technological upgrades, he said, would help eliminate loopholes that previously enabled mismanagement and confusion.
President Mahama’s remarks signal a renewed commitment by his administration to safeguarding the dignity of Ghanaian pilgrims and ensuring that no individual or group takes advantage of the sacred Hajj process. His message comes at a pivotal time when trust in the Hajj administration is being rebuilt, with expectations from the Muslim community at an all-time high.
