Accra: Ghana’s Hajj medical team has been granted a full operational license to run two medical clinics during the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage.

The medical team, led by medical director Dr. Abdul Samed Tanko, achieved the accreditation following a successful inspection and evaluation process conducted by Saudi health authorities.

Announcing the milestone, the Pilgrims Affairs Office of Ghana (PAOG) in a press release issued on Saturday, May 16, 2026, described the development as a historic feat for Ghana’s Hajj medical operations in Saudi Arabia.

PAOG disclosed that for several years, Ghana’s Hajj medical operations faced significant regulatory and operational challenges, often working under temporary arrangements and, in some cases, without formal licensing.

The office noted that the lack of permanent accreditation limited operational flexibility and exposed the medical team to regulatory constraints during previous Hajj exercises.

However, the 2026 Hajj operations marked a turning point after Saudi authorities initially granted a temporary licence, paving the way for a comprehensive assessment of the medical facilities established by the Ghana Medical Team.

The inspection process was supervised by medical team member Dr. Haruna Danamiji Osman.

Following the successful evaluation, Saudi authorities officially approved a full licence for the Ghana Hajj Medical Team to operate two medical clinics in Makkah.

PAOG said the fully licensed facilities will significantly improve healthcare delivery for Ghanaian pilgrims by providing structured, efficient, and reliable primary healthcare services throughout the pilgrimage period.

“The fully licensed clinics will provide structured, efficient, and reliable primary healthcare services, ensuring improved access to medical attention and enhanced welfare support for pilgrims throughout the Hajj period,” the statement said.

The office further expressed appreciation to the Saudi Ministry of Health and other Saudi authorities for their cooperation and professionalism in facilitating the achievement.

PAOG described the milestone as evidence of its commitment to protecting the health, safety, and wellbeing of Ghanaian pilgrims during the annual Hajj pilgrimage.

The development is expected to strengthen Ghana’s Hajj healthcare system and improve emergency medical response and welfare support for pilgrims in Makkah.