The Chairman of the Pilgrims Affairs Office of Ghana, Hon. Alhaji Abdul Rauf Tanko Ibrahim, has urged all prospective pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj to undergo the mandatory medical screening exercise, describing it as a crucial requirement for participation in this year’s pilgrimage.
Speaking in an interview during the ongoing medical screening exercise in Accra, the Chairman said the process had been smooth and well-organised, with no challenge so far.
According to him, the exercise affects every individual intending to perform the 2026 Hajj, including himself.
“I am also a prospective pilgrim and I must go through the process. It is a requirement for everyone,” he stated.
Hon. Tanko Ibrahim explained that although some prospective pilgrims initially did not take the exercise seriously, there has been a significant improvement in response as awareness increases.
“Initially, people did not take it seriously, but now they have understood that it is mandatory. The screening is to determine whether one is medically fit to perform the Hajj,” he said.
He stressed that the medical screening is a prerequisite for visa acquisition, noting that without a certified medical report from the Health Directorate, a pilgrim would not be processed for a Hajj visa.
“We have only 19 days left. Without your test report, we will not be able to secure a visa for you to embark on the spiritual journey,” he cautioned.
The screening exercise includes general medical examinations to assess the overall health status of pilgrims, ensuring they are physically fit to undertake the rigorous spiritual rites in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The process is supervised by health professionals who issue certification upon successful completion.
Hon. Tanko Ibrahim therefore appealed to all persons who have paid their Hajj fares to promptly report for the screening.
“As much as you have paid your money, you must go through the process and obtain certification from the Health Directorate. Failure to do so means you are taking yourself out of the list of those who intend to perform the pilgrimage this year,” he emphasised.
The Pilgrims Affairs Office has reiterated its commitment to ensuring a smooth and successful Hajj exercise, urging full compliance to avoid last-minute complications.
