Ghana Hajj Medical Team secures historic full licence to operate clinics in Makkah

The Medical Team of the Pilgrims Affairs Office of Ghana (PAOG) has achieved a major milestone after securing a full operational licence to run medical clinics in Makkah during the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage.

According to a press release issued on Saturday, May 16, 2026, the licence grants the Ghana Hajj Medical Team full authorization to provide healthcare services and medical support to Ghanaian pilgrims in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The statement, issued by the Communications Directorate of PAOG, described the achievement as historic, noting that it marks the first time the Ghana Hajj Medical Team has obtained a permanent and fully accredited operational permit to manage medical clinics in Makkah.

Under the leadership of the Medical Director, Dr. Abdul Samed Tanko, the medical team successfully completed all regulatory and inspection requirements set by Saudi health authorities before the approval was granted.

The release explained that in previous years, the Ghana Hajj Medical Team faced difficulties in obtaining full accreditation and often operated under temporary arrangements, which limited operational flexibility and exposed the team to regulatory restrictions.

However, the 2026 Hajj operations have reportedly marked a turning point following the issuance of a temporary licence by Saudi authorities and a comprehensive inspection of the medical facilities established by the Ghanaian team.

The inspection and assessment process was supervised by Medical Team Member, Dr. Haruna Danamiji Osman, after which Saudi authorities officially granted the Ghana Hajj Medical Team a full licence to operate two medical clinics in Makkah.

PAOG stated that the fully licensed clinics will provide structured, efficient, and reliable primary healthcare services to Ghanaian pilgrims throughout the Hajj period, ensuring improved access to medical attention and welfare support.

The office also expressed appreciation to the Saudi Ministry of Health and other relevant Saudi authorities for their cooperation, professionalism, and support in facilitating the approval process.

According to the statement, the achievement reflects the commitment of the Pilgrims Affairs Office of Ghana to safeguarding the health, safety, and wellbeing of Ghanaian pilgrims while improving healthcare delivery during the annual Hajj pilgrimage.