Ghana’s Hajj advance team departs for Saudi Arabia

The Pilgrims Affairs Office of Ghana (PAOG) has deployed an 11-member advance team to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to undertake preparatory arrangements for the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage.

The team, constituted under the chairmanship of Alhaji Abdul-Rauf Tanko Ibrahim, is tasked with ensuring that all logistical, administrative and welfare systems are in place ahead of the arrival of Ghanaian pilgrims. It includes seasoned personnel such as Alhaji Abubakar BN Tanko Bawa and other experienced officials.

Operating under the Grounds Operations Management Committee, the delegation comprises two doctors, two senior nurses, and additional medical staff, as well as key members of PAOG’s operations unit. The composition of the team underscores efforts to prioritise the health and well-being of pilgrims during the pilgrimage.

According to a statement issued in Accra by the Communications Directorate of PAOG, the advance team will finalise arrangements relating to accommodation, transportation and healthcare services in the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah, as well as at Mina and Arafat.

The statement added that the team would also ensure that electronic systems are fully operational, while food catering services and medical support systems meet the required standards to guarantee a smooth and safe pilgrimage.

It said the advance team is further expected to verify all arrangements to ensure comfort, safety and proximity to the holy sites for Ghanaian pilgrims.