The Pilgrims Affairs Office of Ghana (PAOG) has commenced a nationwide mandatory medical examination and screening exercise for intending pilgrims ahead of the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage.
To ensure nationwide access, PAOG has designated medical facilities across several regions, including the Upper East, North East, Upper West, Northern, Ashanti, and Greater Accra regions. A detailed schedule outlining screening dates, venues, and expected daily attendance has been prepared and attached to the official release.
Intending pilgrims are required to pay a subsidised medical examination fee of GH¢650 as part of the screening process.
In a statement signed by the Head of Medical at PAOG, Dr. Abdul Samed Tanko, on Tuesday, January 28, 2026, the office stressed that the medical examination is compulsory for all prospective pilgrims and remains a critical requirement for subsequent Hajj processes, including visa acquisition.
PAOG noted that the exercise is being conducted in collaboration with designated medical teams to ensure the health, safety, and overall preparedness of pilgrims for the physically demanding Hajj rituals.
The medical screening will include general physical examinations, screening for communicable and non-communicable diseases, assessment of medical history, and evaluation of fitness for long-distance travel and strenuous religious activities.
According to PAOG, only pilgrims who successfully complete and pass the medical screening will be cleared to proceed with the Hajj process.
The office further clarified that the screening requirement applies to all intending pilgrims, regardless of whether payments were made directly to PAOG or through accredited Hajj agents.
Pilgrims attending the screening are required to present a copy of their passport or Ghana Card and are advised to arrive on time and cooperate fully with medical personnel to ensure a smooth and efficient exercise.
PAOG has also called on accredited Hajj agents, religious leaders, and community heads to support the exercise through effective public education and strict adherence to the outlined guidelines.
Reaffirming its commitment, PAOG assured the public of a transparent, orderly, and successful medical screening exercise as part of preparations for the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage.
Source: Muhammed Faisal Mustapha
