REFORMING HAJJ ORGANIZATION IN GHANA: A CALL FOR PROFESSIONALISM
Since 2005, I’ve followed the activities of the Pilgrims Affairs Office of Ghana closely as a Muslim and a media practitioner, and I believe it’s time to add my voice to the growing chorus of concern here on this blue app.
Anyone familiar with the Hajj operations in Ghana knows how much this institution has evolved—and struggled. From Ghana Hajj Committee to National Hajj Council, Ghana Hajj Board, and Ghana Hajj Secretariat, the name changes alone reflect the instability and lack of continuity that has plagued the organization.
Each name came with a new political administration—and sadly, a new set of challenges.
Yes, there has been remarkable improvement in the way Hajj is managed today compared to previous years. But let’s be honest—people are still complaining. Every year we hear about delays, poor communication, accommodation issues, and the general stress pilgrims go through.
I read the post of one of our illustrious Muslim ladies, Madam Aesha Adam, who lamented the poor accommodation that was allotted to them in Makka. Seeing the pictures and videos attached to the post made me a bit squishy. Some may claim it’s an isolated case, but should it happen? No!
I remember during my days on Tawheed at Kyzz 89.7fm I used to host discussions with pilgrims, organizers, and stakeholders. I remember one day, my then-boss (a Christian) got so frustrated with the consistent issues that he told me: “Speak to your Muslim leaders to give me the job. I promise, there won’t be a single complaint from the pilgrims.” His frustration, though spoken with humor, captured a real truth.
So I ask again: Why do we still have these problems? Is it incompetence? Or are our structures simply weak?
A suggestion that makes a lot of sense is this: let’s remove the politics from Hajj operations and hand it over to competent professionals.
We can still have a Board of Directors made up of respected Muslim politicians, scholars, and leaders to provide oversight and guidance.
But the management team should be a dedicated, professional body that handles planning, logistics, and execution which must be free from political interference.
Let the Board monitor performance and ensure accountability but leave the daily operations to experts.
If we want to serve our pilgrims with dignity and excellence, this is the way to go. As the Qur’an says: “And proclaim the Hajj to mankind. They will come to you on foot and on every lean camel from every distant pass…” (Surah Al-Hajj 22:27)
Let’s build an institution that honors this sacred journey, and not frustrates it.
The time for reform is now. Our hujaaj deserve better.
I come in peace ooo