Reporting By: Adu Simon

The Ghana Hajj Agents Association (GHAA) is calling for comprehensive reforms in the administration of the annual Islamic pilgrimage, citing the need for greater transparency, improved logistics, and increased stakeholder engagement in future operations.
At a news conference held at the Hajj Village in Accra, GHAA Secretary Alhaji Mohammed Sadis Zakaria said that while notable improvements marked this year’s Hajj, significant operational challenges exposed the urgent need for long-term structural changes.
“We are grateful for the efforts made, but Hajj operations in Ghana need a complete overhaul,” Alhaji Zakaria stated. “Good intentions are not enough—we need a system that works, is accountable, and puts the welfare of pilgrims first.”
Among the challenges cited were logistical delays, communication failures, and gaps in emergency response. GHAA maintained that while the Interim Hajj Task Force made strides under tight timelines, Ghana’s Hajj system cannot rely on temporary measures and improvised solutions.
In a comprehensive reform proposal, the Association outlined eight key priorities for the next Hajj Board, which the government is expected to constitute soon. These include:
- Early and clear announcement of payment timelines (at least 4–6 months in advance)
- Transparent procurement and contract processes
- Expansion of Ghana’s Hajj quota to accommodate up to 10,000 pilgrims
- Merit-based staffing for field operations
- Compact and centralised accommodation for Ghanaian pilgrims in Makkah
- A review of Mina’s tent allocations to improve safety and accessibility
- Improved sanitation, food distribution, and logistics in Arafat
- Ongoing consultation with key stakeholders, including GHAA, medical professionals, and civil society
“We want to be part of the decision-making process, not just observers. GHAA must be actively involved in planning accommodation, transportation, catering, and welfare,” Alhaji Zakaria stressed. “Pilgrims deserve a process that is organised, inclusive, and spiritually fulfilling.”
The Association emphasised that the role of Hajj agents goes beyond ticketing and called for their full integration into the operational structure of Hajj management.
“Hajj is a sacred trust. It’s not a profit-making venture. We must manage it with spiritual consciousness and professional discipline,” Zakaria added.
GHAA also commended the medical team for their dedication and called for greater investment in healthcare logistics to safeguard the well-being of pilgrims in future.
The Association reaffirmed its readiness to partner with the incoming Hajj Board to build a more transparent, efficient, and accountable system.
“The future of Hajj in Ghana depends on how we respond to the lessons of today. We must move away from ad hoc arrangements and build a system that serves every pilgrim with dignity,” Alhaji Zakaria said. “This is a call for reform, integrity, and shared responsibility.”
The press conference concluded with a renewed appeal to all stakeholders, including the government, religious leaders, civil society, and the Muslim community, to collaborate in raising the standard of Hajj in Ghana.