2026 Hajj: Over 6,000 Ghanaian pilgrims depart as Tamale airlift begins

The airlift of Ghanaian pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj has commenced in Tamale, with boarding for the first group starting as early as 4:00 a.m. on Friday.

More than 6,000 pilgrims are expected to travel from Ghana to Madina in the Saudi Arabia for this year’s pilgrimage, with Tamale serving as a key departure point.

Out of 19 scheduled flights, nine will depart from Tamale, while the remaining flights will take off from Accra as the nationwide operation continues.

Speaking to journalists on Friday, May 1, the Communications Director of the Pilgrimage Affairs Office, Mohammed Amin Lamptey, said the process has so far been smooth.

He noted that a well-structured flight plan has been put in place to ensure an efficient and orderly transport of all pilgrims within the designated period.

Mr. Lamptey also expressed optimism that this year’s Hajj would be among the most well-organised, highlighting that lessons from previous challenges have informed current preparations.

He assured that sufficient logistical arrangements are in place to guarantee a safe and seamless journey for all pilgrims as the airlift continues in the coming days