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The Muslim youth of Manso Tontokrom in the Amansie South District have commended former President John Dramani Mahama for reducing the cost of the Hajj pilgrimage from GH₵75,000 to GH₵62,000. They described this decision as a major relief for Ghanaian Muslims aspiring to perform the pilgrimage, making it more financially accessible.
A Welcome Relief for Pilgrims
Speaking to the media, the President of the Tontokrom Youth, Mr. Haruna Iddrisu, popularly known as Hon. DC, expressed his deep appreciation for the fare reduction. He noted that the high cost of Hajj had been a major challenge for many Muslims, and the reduction would enable more believers to fulfill this religious obligation.
“We are immensely grateful to President Mahama for this thoughtful decision, which alleviates the financial burden on many Muslims aspiring to perform Hajj. We appeal to subsequent governments to uphold this reduction to ensure continued accessibility to the pilgrimage,” Mr. Iddrisu stated.
He further urged policymakers and future administrations to sustain or even further reduce the cost of Hajj to ensure that more Ghanaian Muslims can embark on this spiritual journey. He emphasized that performing Hajj is a fundamental pillar of Islam, and financial constraints should not prevent devout Muslims from fulfilling their religious duties.
Call for an Islamic School in Manso Tontokrom
Beyond expressing gratitude for the Hajj fare reduction, the youth also made a passionate appeal to the government for the establishment of an Islamic school (Makaranta) in Manso Tontokrom.
Mr. Iddrisu highlighted the need for a dedicated Islamic educational institution in the community, which would provide children with structured Islamic teachings alongside formal education. He stressed that such an institution would instill strong moral values and preserve the religious identity of young Muslims in the area.
“We strongly appeal to the government and well-meaning individuals to support the establishment of a Makaranta in Manso Tontokrom. Islamic education plays a crucial role in shaping the character of our youth, and having a formal institution in our community will greatly benefit the younger generation,” he added.
He further noted that access to Islamic education would not only strengthen the faith of young Muslims but also help them develop a sense of discipline, integrity, and respect for societal values.
Message to Muslim Youth During Ramadan
As the Muslim community observes the holy month of Ramadan, Mr. Iddrisu encouraged young Muslims to approach fasting with sincerity, devotion, and discipline. He urged them to refrain from engaging in alcohol consumption, drug abuse, and other social vices that contradict Islamic teachings.
“As we embrace the holy month of Ramadan, I encourage all Muslim youth to focus on their spiritual obligations, maintain discipline, and avoid activities that contradict Islamic teachings. This will ensure we reap the full blessings and rewards of fasting,” he advised.
He also called on Muslims in Manso Tontokrom and beyond to use Ramadan as an opportunity for prayer, self-reflection, and acts of charity. He urged community members to support the less privileged, as giving to the needy is a key aspect of Islamic teachings, especially during this sacred period.
Conclusion
The commendation by the Muslim youth of Manso Tontokrom highlights the significance of government policies in religious affairs, particularly in making Hajj more affordable for Ghanaian Muslims. Their appeal for an Islamic school also sheds light on the growing need for structured religious education in Muslim communities.
As Ramadan is being observed, their call for moral discipline among the youth serves as a timely reminder of the values that Islam upholds. It remains to be seen how the government and other stakeholders will respond to their plea for an Islamic school, but for now, the community celebrates the financial relief brought by the reduction in Hajj fares.
