President John Dramani Mahama has used this year’s Eid al-Adha National Prayer Session at the Black Star Square in Accra to deliver a message that blended religious reflection with governance priorities, praising national cohesion while outlining new development interventions for Zongo communities and reaffirming his government’s economic recovery agenda.
Central to his message was a strong commendation of the Ghana National Hajj Board and stakeholders for what he described as a smooth and well-coordinated 2026 Hajj pilgrimage, which successfully transported about 6,900 Ghanaian pilgrims to Mecca in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Successful 2026 Hajj operations praised
President Mahama said this year’s Hajj operations had been largely successful, with reports indicating improved arrangements in accommodation, feeding, transport, and general welfare of pilgrims.
He noted that the coordination of the pilgrimage reflected strong institutional collaboration and commitment to service delivery for Ghana’s Muslim community.
“We pray that Almighty Allah will accept the prayers and supplications of our pilgrims and grant them a safe return journey,” he said.
The President also acknowledged the spiritual importance of the Day of Arafat, describing it as one of the holiest moments in the Islamic calendar, when pilgrims gather in prayer, repentance, and supplication.
Condolences over pilgrim’s death
Despite the overall success, President Mahama expressed sorrow over the passing of one Ghanaian pilgrim during the exercise.
He extended condolences to the bereaved family, praying for Allah’s forgiveness and eternal rest for the deceased in Jannatul Firdaus, while assuring that government remained committed to the welfare and safety of all pilgrims.
Eid message of unity and sacrifice
Beyond the Hajj update, the President used the occasion to urge Ghanaians to embrace the values of Eid al-Adha—sacrifice, humility, compassion, generosity, peace, and national unity.
He called on citizens to strengthen social bonds and work collectively toward national development, stressing that Ghana’s progress depends on shared responsibility and mutual support.
“May Allah continue to bless our homeland Ghana, guide our leaders, strengthen our unity, and grant prosperity to every family,” he said.
STEM schools and infrastructure for Zongo communities
Shifting focus to development policy, President Mahama announced a major education and infrastructure initiative targeting Zongo and densely populated urban communities.
He revealed that government will commence the construction of new Community Day E-block STEM Senior High Schools across Zongo communities to improve access to science, technology, engineering and mathematics education.
According to him, the aim is to reduce long travel distances for students and ensure that quality secondary education is delivered within underserved communities.
He also expressed appreciation to the Council of Zongo Chiefs for providing land to support the rollout of the project.
Road rehabilitation and Zongo development fund
The President further announced that rehabilitation of road networks in Zongo communities will begin soon, starting with Koforidua Zongo, with nationwide expansion planned thereafter.
He also disclosed plans to operationalise a dedicated fund to support small businesses in Zongo communities, particularly traders and micro-entrepreneurs.
The initiative, he said, will provide soft credit to support economic activities such as food vending and other small-scale enterprises.
Economic recovery and job creation agenda
On the economy, President Mahama acknowledged that government inherited significant challenges but said deliberate policy interventions were stabilising conditions and restoring confidence.
He pointed to ongoing programmes such as the 24-Hour Economy Policy, skills development initiatives, apprenticeship schemes, and industrial transformation strategies as key pillars of job creation and economic expansion.
“Our focus remains on creating jobs, supporting local enterprises, expanding opportunities for young people and improving living conditions for ordinary Ghanaians,” he said.
Youth employment and Arabic teachers programme
The President also highlighted progress under the Youth Employment Agency (YEA), noting that 6,000 Arabic teachers had been recruited to strengthen Islamic education while reducing youth unemployment.
He confirmed that all recruited teachers had been paid in full, commending YEA Chief Executive Officer Malik Basintale and his team for efficient implementation.
“The Government does not owe them a single cedi; they have been paid up to date,” he emphasised.
Call for inclusive national development
President Mahama concluded by reaffirming his administration’s commitment to inclusive development, stating that no community would be left behind in what he described as a national reset agenda.
The Eid al-Adha National Prayer Session was led by the National Chief Imam, Sheikh Dr Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, bringing together political leaders, religious leaders, and members of the Muslim community in a moment of prayer, reflection, and national unity.
