President John Dramani Mahama has ordered the full digitization of Ghana’s Hajj operations to enhance transparency and efficiency in the pilgrimage process.
The President directed that all authorized payments must be receipted electronically and verifiably, with e-registration, SMS notifications, and a mobile application to be introduced.
Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony of the new Hajj Board at the Presidency, President Mahama stated that digital tools will not only reduce fraud and congestion but also improve data management for future planning.
“The world has changed, and our Hajj operations must change with it. I encourage this board to adopt digital tools to streamline registration, communication, and feedback processes. Let us move towards e-registration of pilgrims. Let us move towards SMS notifications to their mobile phones,” he said.
The President explained that a Hajj mobile application with a portal will allow pilgrims to register, check their status, payments, and travel information.
He emphasized that from this year, operations of the Hajj Board must be fully digitized to ensure transparency and accountability.
President Mahama issued a strong warning against the exploitation of Hajj pilgrims, stating that it is haram to exploit the sweat of poor pilgrims.
He declared that no unofficial levies or hidden charges will be allowed in the Hajj operations.
“It is haram to exploit the sweat of a poor pilgrim. It is unacceptable for pilgrims, many of whom have saved for years, to suffer anxiety, confusion, or unfair treatment at the hands of officials or especially middlemen,” President Mahama stated.
The President warned that any official or agent engaged in illegal charges or extortion must be removed and sanctioned in accordance with law.
He stated that Ghana owes it to the pilgrims and to Allah to protect the integrity of the sacred journey.
President Mahama emphasized that the Ghana Hajj must never be a source of exploitation or profiteering.
He noted that pilgrims and their families must know how their money is used, with all payments passing through approved traceable channels.
“No unofficial levies. No hidden charges. Transparency builds trust, and trust is a currency of leadership,” the President said.
He explained that the Hajj Board is being entrusted with a clear mandate to plan, manage, and execute all matters relating to the annual Hajj in a manner that reflects Ghana’s highest standards.
President Mahama stated that the Board must work with precision and integrity in five areas: early and predictable planning, transparency and accountability, safety, health and welfare, professionalism, and partnership and communication.
He directed the Board to coordinate with the Ghana Health Service, the Ministry of Transport, and Ghana’s Embassy in Riyadh to guarantee safe travel, decent accommodation, adequate medical support, adequate meals and efficient medical support.
The President called for special attention to be paid to elderly pilgrims, women, and persons with disabilities, describing their comfort as a sacred duty of the Hajj Board.
He urged the Board to keep open and constant engagement with the Office of the National Chief Imam, regional imams, travel partners and agents, and especially with Saudi authorities.
President Mahama stated that coordination prevents crisis, and communication prevents rumors.
He noted that the government will provide the necessary policy and logistical support to ensure the success of the pilgrimage, but that support must go hand in hand with accountability.
Richard Aniagyei, ISD
