President John Dramani Mahama has promised significant reductions in Hajj fares next year and announced plans to legislate Eid ul Fitr as a permanent public holiday, in what is being viewed as a landmark gesture to the Muslim community.
Addressing thousands at Eid ul Adha prayers in Accra, Mahama acknowledged the economic strain pilgrims faced this year despite his administration’s efforts to lower costs. He attributed the high fare to currency fluctuations but signaled better times ahead.
“If the cedi continues to perform as it has in recent weeks, and with the help of Allah, we are confident of achieving a substantial reduction in Hajj costs next year,” Mahama said.
He revealed that at current exchange rates, the Hajj fare could have been around GHS45,000, far lower than what pilgrims paid this year.
But beyond airfare relief, Mahama’s most politically resonant announcement was a draft bill to institutionalize Eid ul Fitr as a statutory public holiday, responding to a long-standing demand from Ghana’s Muslim population.
“We have completed drafting the bill and will soon lay it before Parliament. This means Eid ul Fitr will be part of Ghana’s calendar by law—not just by executive declaration,” he assured the gathering.
The dual announcement is seen as part of Mahama’s broader effort to consolidate support among Ghana’s diverse religious groups, especially ahead of a critical policy year.
While economic reforms have dominated headlines in recent months, Friday’s address marked a pivot toward social and cultural commitments that resonate deeply with grassroots communities.
Analysts say the permanent recognition of Eid ul Fitr could serve as both a symbolic and legislative milestone, strengthening interfaith equity in Ghana’s national calendar of holidays.
