Alhaji Collins Dauda, Chairman of the interim Hajj Taskforce, has disclosed that the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration left behind a staggering debt of GH₵81,142,899.90 from past Hajj pilgrimage operations. Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, February 5, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Member of Parliament for Asutifi South revealed that the debt is owed to various service providers involved in facilitating the pilgrimage.
Dauda, who heads the five-member taskforce established by President John Mahama to oversee Hajj activities, also announced a significant reduction in the cost of this year’s Hajj fare. The fee has been lowered from GH₵75,000 in 2024 to GH₵62,000 for 2025, fulfilling a key campaign promise made by President Mahama during the 2024 elections.
“During the 2024 presidential campaign, President Mahama pledged to the Muslim community that he would reduce the Hajj fare to make it more accessible and affordable. Last year, the fare was set at GH₵75,000. Today, I am pleased to announce that the President has honored this commitment,” Dauda stated.
He explained that the reduction was achieved through diligent negotiations by the Hajj Taskforce, which participated in the Hajj conference in Saudi Arabia in January and engaged with service providers in Mecca and Madina. “Through these efforts, the fare for the 2025 Hajj has been set at GH₵62,000, equivalent to $4,130,” he added.
The debt revelation has sparked discussions about the financial management of Hajj operations under the previous administration. Meanwhile, the reduction in the Hajj fare is expected to increase Ghana’s quota for pilgrims, enabling more Muslims to fulfill their religious obligations.
President Mahama’s fulfillment of his campaign promise underscores his administration’s commitment to supporting the Muslim community, while the taskforce’s efforts highlight ongoing reforms to ensure transparency and efficiency in Hajj operations.
Source:NKONKONSA.com
