President John Dramani Mahama has indicated that Ghanaians planning to undertake the Hajj pilgrimage next year may benefit from significantly reduced fares, thanks to the strengthening of the local currency.
During a Thank You Tour stop in Kintampo, Bono East Region, on Thursday, May 29, 2025, he shared that if the Ghanaian Cedi continues to gain ground against the US dollar, Hajj costs could drop to as low as GHC50,000.
“When we began payments for this year’s Hajj, the exchange rate stood at GHC15.5 to the dollar. That translated the $4,000 pilgrimage cost into GHC62,000,” Mahama explained. “But if you calculate using the current rate of GHC10.5, fares could drop below GHC50,000 next year.”
He highlighted his administration’s role in easing the financial burden of the pilgrimage, noting that since taking over the organization of Hajj, the government has slashed costs from GHC75,000 to GHC60,000.
Mahama’s remarks come amid national conversation about the strengthening Cedi and its positive ripple effects on the cost of living. He emphasized that the currency’s appreciation should continue yielding real benefits for citizens across all sectors.
In related news, Friday, June 6, 2025, has been declared a statutory public holiday to mark Eid-ul-Adha, a significant celebration in the Islamic calendar. A statement from the Interior Ministry, signed by Minister Muntaka Mubarak, encouraged nationwide observance of the holiday.
Eid-ul-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, honors the devotion of Prophet Ibrahim, who was prepared to sacrifice his son in obedience to God. The festival aligns with the end of the Hajj pilgrimage and falls on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah, the final month of the Islamic year.
It is widely celebrated with communal prayers, sacrificial offerings, and charitable giving, bringing families and communities together in a spirit of faith and generosity.
