By Stanley Senya
Accra, Mar. 3, GNA- Works on the multipurpose Hajj Village at Kotoka International Airport are ongoing in earnest as the President John Dramani Mahama cut sod on Friday, February 28, 2025.
A statement issued in Accra by the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) said being a state-owned self-sustaining commercial entity, it generates its own funds internally.
It said in so doing, the Company needed to generate revenues from commercial partnerships with various investors to generate revenue, while facilitating the movement of aircraft, passengers, cargo and mail.
It said one of such ventures was the hajj village which was a GACL initiative to facilitate pilgrims during the months of hajj and to cater for the needs of the public all year round.
The statement said this also boosts the non-aeronautical revenue streams of GACL.
The New Hajj Village is a transformative mixed-use development located near Kotoka International Airport.
It will feature six essential facilities designed to support the annual Hajj pilgrimage while also serving the general public throughout the year.
The Key amenities include, residential accommodation, Clinic, Terminal, Conference spaces, recreational areas, and Offices.
Upon completion, the New Hajj Village will offer pilgrims and the broader community a world-class experience, ensuring a dignified, relaxing and conducive atmosphere and a one-stop shop for Hajj pilgrims and other activities.
The statement said the commercial facilities such as the residential accommodation, conference centre and sports complex would serve the general public during non-hajj months to generate revenue for the sustenance of GACL.
The project is being developed by Mawums Limited, a Ghanaian Civil Engineering and real Estate firm, in partnership with Ghana Airports Company Limited and is expected to be completed in 24 months.
President Mahama during the sod cutting highlighted his administration’s resolve to fulfilling promises made to the Muslim Community noting that the new hajj village would offer improved coordination and enhance comfort for pilgrims.
The President indicated that the project aligned with government’s commitment to religious inclusivity and a demonstration of its dedication to supporting the needs of Ghana’s diverse religious communities.
The event brought together notable personalities including the Chief Imam, His Eminence Osman Nuhu Sharabutu, Moslem Scholars, Government Officials and Representatives from the Hajj Task Force and various Muslim Groups.
GNA