Ghana currently offers the lowest Hajj fare in Sub-Saharan Africa – Collins Dauda

The Chairman of the Interim Hajj Board, Collins Dauda, says Ghana currently offers the lowest fare for the Hajj pilgrimage in the entire Sub-Saharan region, charging Muslim citizens less than $5,000 per person for the journey to Mecca.

Speaking to the press following a tour of the proposed Hajj village facility near the Kotoka International Airport, Mr Dauda confirmed that while the government is striving to ensure that citizens can enjoy the pilgrimage without significant challenges, there are no plans to reduce the current fare.

He highlighted that the fare of GHC62,000 (approximately $4,130) is the most affordable among neighbouring countries.

“The fare we have announced is the cheapest in the region,” he remarked.

“For instance, Nigeria charges about $5,000, Burkina Faso over $5,000, Ivory Coast over $5,000, and Senegal more than $5,000. Meanwhile, we are charging $4,130.”

Mr Dauda further clarified that although there are no current plans to lower the fare, any future adjustments would depend on prevailing circumstances.

The proposed Hajj Village, once completed, is expected to serve as a dedicated terminal for Ghanaian pilgrims travelling to Mecca.

However, the project has faced criticism, with some questioning its relevance and the use of public funds.

In response, Minister of State for Government Communication Felix Kwakye Ofosu clarified on social media that the Hajj Village is intended to facilitate the check-in and processing of pilgrims.

He assured the public that the project is being funded by the Ghana Airport Company Limited (GACL) and does not involve taxpayers’ funds.