In a bid to ensure a well-organized and spiritually focused Hajj pilgrimage, President John Dramani Mahama has taken a firm stance against the commercialization of the sacred journey.

Speaking at the sod-cutting ceremony for the new Hajj Village on Friday, February 28, he reiterated that the pilgrimage should be treated as a religious obligation rather than a profit-making venture.

For many Ghanaian Muslims, performing the Hajj is a lifelong dream, a pillar of Islam that symbolizes devotion and sacrifice.

However, in recent years, logistical challenges, inflated costs, and mismanagement have made the journey increasingly difficult for pilgrims. This reality prompted the government to take a proactive approach by assembling a dedicated task force to oversee the 2024 Hajj operations.

READ ALSO: Only Two Genders Exist – Mahama Stands Firm on Anti-LGBTQ Bill

“This year, we set up a task force to manage the Hajj because, after assuming office, we realized that the time before the pilgrimage was too short.

“So, we brought competent people together, led by Alhaji Collins Dauda, to organize this year’s Hajj. After this, we will constitute the Hajj Board and appoint its chairman,” President Mahama stated.

Furthermore, President Mahama made it clear that the Hajj pilgrimage should not be viewed as a business opportunity.

“I have instructed the task force that the Hajj is not a business and should not be structured for profit. The Hajj Board and Task Force must not aim to make a profit.

“If even one cedi remains after the Hajj, it should be donated to the poor or used for a project within the Hajj community,” he asserted.

Don’t miss out! Get your daily dose of Entertainment news and more straight to your phone. Join Ghana Street Journal Whatsapp channel now!