Samuel Okudzeto AblakwaThe Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has announced that prospective Hajj pilgrims will now be able to conveniently obtain their passports at the Hajj Village. This new process according to the Minister, will significantly reduce the waiting time, with passports being processed in a maximum of just three days.
The move, he said aimed at enhancing efficiency, would not require pilgrims to pay any additional fees for this special intervention. “It is part of a broader set of passport reforms under President John Dramani Mahama’s Reset Agenda, which seeks to modernize the passport application process and improve the overall experience for the public,” he stated.
Mr Ablakwa highlighted that this service, which was previously unavailable, was designed to cater to large groups, including religious organizations, educational institutions, corporate Ghana, and travel agencies, all of whom can request access to the service.
Moreover, the Foreign Ministry has set up dedicated desks at all Passport Application Centres across the country to accommodate the estimated 5,000 Ghanaian Muslims expected to travel for the 2025 Hajj. He said,this move ensures that the integrity of Ghanaian passports will be maintained while also addressing the specific needs of Hajj-bound pilgrims.
The Minister emphasized that these reforms are part of a broader effort to reset Ghana’s institutions to better serve all citizens, furthering President Mahama’s vision for a more efficient and modern government.
As Ramadan approaches, the Minister extended heartfelt wishes to the Muslim community, saying, “Ramadan Kareem to all our Muslim brothers and sisters.”
