By Celestine Avi & Seth Eyiah
President John Mahama has announced that this year’s Hajj fare for Ghanaian pilgrims has been reduced to 60,000 cedis, with the quota of 5,960 pilgrims already filled. Speaking at the commissioning of the Akweteman Central Mosque in the Okaikwei Constituency, he urged pilgrims to cooperate with the Hajj Committee, warning that those who register late may have to wait until next year.
“We have a quota of 5,960 pilgrims, and the fare has been reduced to 60,000 cedis to make it more affordable. I urge everyone to cooperate with the Hajj Committee. Those who come late may have to wait until next year. Let’s make this a smooth and peaceful pilgrimage.”
He assured pilgrims that all arrangements, including accommodation near the Kaaba and Medina, as well as transport logistics, are well underway: “We want this year’s Hajj to be comfortable and well-organized for everyone.”
President Mahama was warmly received by Chief Imam Sheikh Nuhu Usman Khan, members of the Council of Muslim Chiefs, local Imams, Members of Parliament, Ministers of State, and residents of Akweteman. He thanked the community for their dedication and cooperation in completing the mosque, which stands as a symbol of faith, unity, and peaceful coexistence.
“The mosque you see today is not just a building; it is a place for prayers, reflection, and community cohesion. May Allah bless everyone who comes here,” he said.
The President explained that the mosque had faced delays due to structural concerns. “When engineers inspected the site, they found weaknesses in the foundation and pillars. We had to strengthen them first to ensure the safety of worshippers. Safety was our top priority,” he added.
After the necessary reinforcements, construction resumed, and the mosque was completed in memory of Malam Adin Akweteman. President Mahama also commended the local Member of Parliament for her consistent oversight and thanked all contributors to the project.
Highlighting Ghana’s unique culture of religious tolerance, he said: “You won’t find this kind of unity in other African countries. Here, Muslims, Christians, and followers of traditional African religions live, worship, and celebrate together in peace.”
President Mahama extended prayers for the upcoming Ramadan: “May the blessings of Ramadan be upon all of us and upon Ghana. Let us continue to promote peace, unity, and interfaith harmony across the country.”
