Former Auditor-General Daniel Yao Domelevo has slammed the government for prioritizing the construction of a Hajj Village, arguing that such an investment is unjustifiable given Ghana’s struggling economy.

0

Domelevo questioned the rationale behind committing resources to a religious infrastructure project while the country faces severe financial challenges.

1

He pointed out that Ghana is still dealing with the fallout from the $58 million spent on the National Cathedral, which has yielded little tangible progress.

2

“It is truly astonishing—especially as we grapple with recovering over $58 million squandered on the National Cathedral project—that one of the key priorities of the Mahama administration is the fruitless and wasteful Hajj Village project,” he remarked.

3

His comments came in response to assurances by the Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, who claimed that the Hajj Village project would not be funded by taxpayers. Domelevo dismissed this assertion as misleading, stressing that the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL), which is overseeing the project, is a state-owned enterprise. He argued that since the government is likely a major shareholder, public funds could inevitably be involved.

4

Domelevo further contrasted Ghana’s priorities with Ethiopia’s approach to development. He noted that despite Ethiopia’s significant Muslim population, the country has chosen to invest in infrastructure that boosts economic growth, such as a five-star Skylight hotel with over 1,000 rooms and expanded airport facilities to enhance passenger transit.

5

In comparison, he expressed disappointment that Ghana is focusing on a Hajj Village. “We should stop celebrating mediocrity,” he concluded.

6

His remarks have fueled further debate over the project’s funding, with critics questioning whether government resources are indeed not being used.

7

While the proposed Hajj Village is intended to facilitate travel for Ghanaian pilgrims, concerns remain over whether the country should instead be investing in initiatives with a more direct economic impact.

8