7 Ghanaian pilgrims confirmed dead during 2025 Hajj

The Ghana Hajj Board has confirmed the deaths of seven Ghanaian pilgrims. They were participating in the 2025 Hajj rituals in Saudi Arabia.

The deceased include five women and two men. Their identities have not been disclosed publicly. The Board has informed all affected families in Ghana.

Alhaji Collins Dauda, Chairman of the Ghana Hajj Board, expressed condolences on TV3. He stated, "We have lost seven of our compatriots. Deaths are painful, but they happen when they must." He extended his deepest sympathies to the bereaved families in Ghana.

Dauda mentioned that Hajj Board officials would visit these families soon. According to Islamic principles, all seven individuals have been buried in Saudi Arabia. This is standard for pilgrims who pass away during Hajj.

This year, Ghana sent over 6,000 pilgrims to Mecca. They joined more than 2 million Muslims worldwide for the annual pilgrimage. The Hajj is a physically demanding journey often conducted under extreme weather conditions.

Reports from Mecca indicated temperatures exceeding 48°C during peak days. This posed health risks to pilgrims, especially the elderly or those with pre-existing conditions.

Despite these challenges, fatalities among Ghanaian pilgrims have decreased significantly this year. Alhaji Dauda noted that seven deaths represent a decline from 17 reported in 2024. This marks a ~59% reduction in fatalities.

He attributed this improvement to strong protocols with Saudi authorities. These measures include health screenings before departure and dedicated medical teams accompanying pilgrims.

Enhanced provisions for medical care and emergency response were also implemented on-site. Efforts to prevent heatstroke included hydration points and advisory campaigns to mitigate risks from the desert climate.

The Board remains committed to ensuring the safety of all Ghanaian pilgrims. They will continuously review and adapt their protocols based on international best practices for mass gatherings under challenging conditions.