The Pilgrims Affairs Office of Ghana (PAOG) has announced a series of new measures aimed at improving transparency, preventing fraud, and enhancing the overall experience of Ghanaian pilgrims ahead of the 2026 Hajj.
Speaking on Metro TV’s Business Edge programme, Hon. Alhaji Mohammed Aminu Lamptey Hussein, the Director of Communications at PAOG, said the Office is committed to ensuring a smooth, well-organized, and secure pilgrimage for all participants.
Enhanced Transparency and Payment Reforms
Alhaji Lamptey revealed that the Hajj fare has been reduced from GHS 62,000 to GHS 60,000, with payments now being made exclusively through the Ghana Commercial Bank (GCB). This, he explained, is part of broader efforts to eliminate fraud and unauthorized collections.
“Nobody will come to the Hajj Village to pay cash to anyone — not even the financial officer,” he emphasized. “All payments must go through our bankers, who will verify and update us daily.”
The new payment system, he noted, is designed to protect prospective pilgrims from scams and ensure accurate record-keeping.
Accreditation and Fraud Prevention
To further combat fraudulent activities, PAOG has approved 42 accredited Hajj agents who are authorized to operate on behalf of pilgrims. Alhaji Lamptey cautioned against dealing with unregistered intermediaries, noting that several individuals had previously posed as agents to defraud unsuspecting applicants.
Additionally, he announced that the Saudi authorities have introduced new security measures to prevent the misuse of visiting visas during the Hajj season.
“If you travel on a visiting visa now, you will not be permitted to perform Hajj,” he warned.
Early Planning and Coordination
Alhaji Lamptey encouraged early registration and payment to allow effective planning for Ghana’s quota of 6,782 pilgrims. He noted that logistical arrangements—covering accommodation, transportation, and medical care—require adequate time and coordination.
He also disclosed that PAOG is collaborating with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to assist pilgrims who do not yet possess valid passports.
Improved Facilities and Leadership
Reflecting on past challenges such as congestion and poor coordination at airports, Alhaji Lamptey praised the establishment of the modern Hajj Village under President John Dramani Mahama, describing it as a “game changer” in Ghana’s Hajj operations.
“Effective leadership, proper communication, financial oversight, and strong crowd control systems are essential to a successful Hajj season,” he stated. “We are here to do a good job, and we need the support of all Ghanaian Muslims.”
Looking Ahead
Preparations for the 2026 Hajj are already underway. PAOG has assured the public that regular updates will be provided to all registered pilgrims to ensure transparency and ease of communication throughout the process.
Source: modernghana
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