President John Dramani Mahama has announced that Hajj fares may potentially decrease to GHC 50,000 next year, contingent on the continued strengthening of the Ghanaian Cedi against the US dollar. Speaking during his Thank You Tour in Kintampo, Bono East Region, President Mahama highlighted the impact of recent exchange rate gains on the cost of the Islamic pilgrimage.
Key Points
– Current Exchange Rate: The Cedi is currently trading at GHC 10.5 to the dollar, down from GHC 15.5 when payments for the Hajj were initiated.
– Potential Fare Reduction: Calculations suggest that the fare for Hajj may dip below GHC 50,000, considering the current exchange rate and the $4,000 cost of the pilgrimage.
– Previous Fare Reduction: Hajj fares have already been reduced significantly from GHC 75,000 to GHC 62,000 since President Mahama’s government took over the process .
Background
The reduction in Hajj fares is attributed to President Mahama’s administration efforts to make the pilgrimage more accessible and affordable for Ghanaians. The President emphasized that the Cedi’s robust performance should translate into tangible relief for citizens across diverse sectors.
Eid-ul-Adha Celebration
In related news, June 6, 2025, has been declared a statutory public holiday to commemorate Eid-ul-Adha, a significant event in the Islamic calendar. Muslims will mark the occasion with solemn prayers, ritual animal sacrifices, and acts of charity, celebrating the spirit of giving and communal solidarity.
