The cost of the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage for Ghanaian Muslims has been set at GH₵62,000 (approximately $4,130), marking a significant reduction from the previous fare of GH₵75,000 in 2024.
This announcement was made by Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Shamima Muslim in a Facebook post on Wednesday, February 5, 2025.
She also revealed that Ghana’s Hajj quota has been increased to 5,000 pilgrims, up from 4,000 in 2024.
The reduction in fare aligns with President John Dramani Mahama’s campaign promise to make Hajj more affordable for Ghanaian Muslims.
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During the 2024 election campaign, he pledged to cut costs and engaged with Muslim leaders to address concerns over the financial burden of the pilgrimage.
Addressing worshippers at the National Mosque, President Mahama reaffirmed his commitment, stating, “We intend to keep our promise to the Muslim community… one of which was that we’ll reduce Hajj fees drastically.”
Despite the fare reduction, the government has inherited an outstanding Hajj debt of over $5.4 million, according to Shamima Muslim.
Comparisons with Other Countries
While Ghanaian pilgrims will now pay around $4,130, their counterparts in Côte d’Ivoire are paying $5,500 for the 2025 pilgrimage.
In previous years, Ghana’s Hajj fare was among the highest in the sub-region, with the 2024 fee pegged at $6,500.
Increased Quota and Its Impact
The increase in the Hajj quota to 5,000 is expected to allow more Ghanaian Muslims to undertake the pilgrimage, which remains a key religious obligation for those who are financially and physically capable.
Hajj, one of Islam’s five pillars, attracts millions of pilgrims worldwide each year, with Saudi Arabia setting country-specific quotas.
With the revised fare and increased slots, many Ghanaian Muslims are expected to take advantage of this opportunity to fulfill their spiritual duty.
