Hajj Fares Could Drop to GHC50,000 Next Year – President Mahama
President John Dramani Mahama has announced that Hajj fares could fall to as low as GHC50,000 next year if the Ghanaian Cedi continues its current trajectory of appreciation against the US dollar. Apexnewsgh reports
Speaking during his Thank You Tour in Kintampo in the Bono East Region, the President highlighted the impact of recent exchange rate gains on the cost of the Islamic pilgrimage.
President Mahama explained that when his administration started paying for the Hajj, the Cedi was at GHC15.5 to the dollar, resulting in a fare of GHC62,000 for the $4,000 cost of the pilgrimage. However, with the current exchange rate of GHC10.5 to the dollar, he expects the fare to drop below GHC50,000.
The President praised his administration’s efforts to make the pilgrimage more affordable, noting that Hajj fares have already been reduced significantly from GHC75,000 to GHC60,000 since his government took over the process.
President Mahama stressed that the positive performance of the local currency should continue translating into relief for citizens across various sectors. His comments come amid broader discussions about the strengthening of the Cedi and its impact on the cost of living.
Meanwhile, Friday, June 6, 2025, will be observed as a statutory public holiday in celebration of Eid-ul-Adha. Eid-ul-Adha, Eid al-Adha, or the Festival of Sacrifice, is one of the most significant events on the Islamic calendar, commemorating the unwavering faith of Prophet Ibrahim.
The Interior Minister, Muntaka Mubarak, declared June 6, 2025, as a public holiday across the country, urging the public to observe the day with special prayers, animal sacrifices, and acts of charity.
Source: Apexnewsgh.com
