The Ghanaian Minaret

Accra: The Ghana Hajj Agents Association is calling on the government to involve hajj agents in the negotiation of contracts relating to accommodation, transportation, catering and welfare services of hajj pilgrims.

This was in line with the association’s call for transparency in all Hajj-related expenditures and contracts and the need for active consultation with stakeholder groups.

Speaking at a press briefing, Alhaji Mohammed Sadis Zakaria, Secretary, Ghana Hajj Agents Association, said that though the efforts of the Ghana Hajj Taskforce were worth commending, their commitment and good intentions were not enough to curb the systemic challenges that confronted hajj organisations.

“Let us speak with honesty. This year’s hajj operations were not without flaws. There were notable logistical inefficiencies, communication lapses and emergency response challenges,” he said.

He called for transparency, stakeholder inclusion and strategic foresight in the inauguration of a permanent hajj board for the coming hajj seasons.

The association, among other things, proposed the early announcement of payment timelines for at least four to six months in advance of the deadline, increasing the Hajj quota to 10,000 to meet growing demand, and the staffing of pilgrims’ offices based on loyalty and competence, especially for field operations.

The association also demanded a centralised accommodation for Ghanaian pilgrims in Makkah, a review of Mina tent allocations, improved Arafat logistics, sanitation and food distribution.

“Hajj is not just a journey; it is a trust. It must be managed with integrity, transparency, and spiritual consciousness,” he said.

He expressed gratitude to the Ghana Hajj task force for working tirelessly within a short period to organise a hajj that had increased participation due to the reduction in fares.