First batch of Ghanaian pilgrims departs September 29

In an interview with the Ghana News Agency in Accra, Alhaji Benne said pilgrims from the three northern regions would be checked in at Tamale Airport, fly directly to the Hajj Village in Accra and go through security screening and finally fly to Saudi Arabia.

He noted that pilgrims fond of carrying illegal stuff such as cola nuts in large quantities for sale would not be permitted.

He therefore advised would-be pilgrims to desist from any illegal substances or seek clarification from Hajj Accredited Agents on regulations about pilgrimage to Saudi.

Alhaji Benne also appealed to pilgrims and their associates to cooperate with security personnel on boarding arrangements as well as screening modalities for a smooth Hajj this year.

He said arrangements for their accommodation had also been completed both in Accra and Saudi Arabia.

The Hajj village was relocated to the Kotoka International Airport area following the Allied Air Cargo Boeing 727-200 crash at the original village near the El-wak Sports Stadium.

According to official timetable obtained by GNA, Hajj is expected to fall between October 24-29. Hijri dates for 1433H (2012) Hajj and Umrah seasons as follows:

The First day of arrival in the Kingdom for pilgrims is September 27, whilst the last date for arrival of pilgrims in the Kingdom by air at the King Abdulaziz International Airport, Jeddah, or at the Prince Muhammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport, Madina, is 20th October.

The Last date for pilgrims to travel from Jeddah to Madina by bus is October 11 and last date for pilgrims to travel from Jeddah to Madina by air is October 18, while the last date for pilgrims to travel from Madina to Makkah by bus (before Hajj) is October 21.

The last date for pilgrims to travel from Madinah to Jeddah by air (before Hajj) is October 22, with the final date for departure (return trip) being November 29.

Why I love Nigerians–Yvonne Chaka Chaka

MMDAs failing to release Common Fund to PWDs