The Chairman of the National Hajj Task Force, Alhaji Collins Dauda, has disclosed that the six Ghanaian pilgrims who died during the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca had underlying health conditions.

Speaking to journalists, Alhaji Dauda confirmed that the families of the deceased had been formally notified. He emphasised that the unfortunate deaths were not due to logistical or organisational failures but were largely attributed to pre-existing medical issues among the elderly pilgrims.

“It was not our wish for this to happen, but it was the will of Allah,” he said.

The Ghana Hajj Board had earlier, on June 8, confirmed the deaths of seven Ghanaian pilgrims in Saudi Arabia—five women and two men. However, Alhaji Dauda clarified that only six of them were part of the official contingent.

“We have received information about a seventh person who also passed away, but he did not travel with the official group. He went on a tourist visa. Nevertheless, he is Ghanaian,” he explained.

He further noted that the deceased were elderly and medically vulnerable before embarking on the pilgrimage. Despite these tragic incidents, the main contingent of Ghanaian pilgrims is expected to return to Ghana later this month.

Alhaji Dauda added that special prayers were held for the deceased in Mecca following their burial. He said the Hajj Board would, upon the return of the pilgrims, deliberate on suitable ways to honour their memory and support the bereaved families.