Ghanaian Pilgrims Stranded
It’s a deeply concerning time for many in Ghana as news emerges of a humanitarian crisis unfolding in Saudi Arabia. The Concerned Muslims of Ghana has issued an urgent appeal to the Ghanaian Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, highlighting the precarious situation of numerous Ghanaian pilgrims stranded in the holy cities of Medina and Jeddah.
These individuals embarked on their journey with the profound spiritual intention of performing Hajj, a sacred pilgrimage for Muslims. However, they traveled on visiting visas, and are now facing severe difficulties due to the strict regulations enforced by Saudi authorities, which prohibit pilgrims without official Hajj visas from participating.
The reports are heartbreaking. Our fellow Ghanaians are enduring immense hardship, with severely limited access to essential provisions like food and accommodation. The Concerned Muslims of Ghana describes their situation as dire, emphasizing grave concerns for their well-being if immediate humanitarian assistance is not provided.
Haruna Gyibo, Acting Secretary for the Concerned Muslims of Ghana, states, “We are deeply troubled by the distressing circumstances facing our fellow Ghanaians abroad. Their basic survival is at stake, and we urgently appeal to the Minister to intervene on their behalf.”
The organization is specifically calling upon Minister Ablakwa to establish direct liaison with the Ghana Embassy in Saudi Arabia. The aim is to facilitate immediate support, including crucial relief in the form of food and accommodation to ease the pilgrims’ current distress and ensure their fundamental needs are met.
While acknowledging the complexities of international travel and the specific regulations surrounding pilgrimage, the Concerned Muslims of Ghana stresses that the humanitarian aspect of this situation demands immediate and decisive action. “A swift intervention from the Minister’s office, working in concert with our embassy, could profoundly impact the lives and dignity of these Ghanaian citizens,” Mr. Gyibo adds. “We are hopeful that through prompt action, a positive resolution can be achieved, and these Ghanaian pilgrims stranded far from home can be brought to safety and comfort.”
This is a call to action for our government and all compassionate individuals. The lives and well-being of our citizens are at stake. We must work together to ensure these pilgrims receive the help they desperately need.
EN 
FR 
IT 
ES