According to the government, the fixed price which was revealed by the Minister of Territorial Administration, Paul Atanga Nji early this month, aims to protect pilgrims from exploitation and as it thrives to ensure a transparent process.
The Minister of Territorial Administration, in his capacity as President of the National Hajj Commission, has officially announced the price for the ordinary Hajj pilgrimage for the year 2025. Per a communiqué issued early this month, the cost is set at three million two hundred and sixty-two thousand six hundred and twenty (3,262,620) CFA francs. The announcement which was further reinforced by a subsequent statement made over the weekend, provides clarity for prospective pilgrims planning to undertake the sacred journey. The Minister Atanga Nji in his declaration emphasized on the immutability of the established price, insisting that there should be no deviations or modifications to this figure.
This measure is intended to protect pilgrims from potential exploitation and ensure a transparent and regulated process for participation in the Hajj. The firm stance on the price, the member of government stated, aims to eliminate any ambiguity and create a level playing field for all those wishing to fulfil this important religious obligation. Furthermore, the Minister reiterated that all payments must be made exclusively through the designated guichet unique single window system, as has been the established practice. This centralized payment system is designed to streamline transactions, enhance security, and prevent fraudulent activities.
By channelling all payments through a single, controlled point, the National Hajj Commission aims to maintain accountability and safeguard the financial interests of the pilgrims. In a stern warning to those entrusted with facilitating the pilgrimage, the Minister declared that any facilitator caught engaging in price speculation or any form of profiteering related to the stated price will face severe consequences, including permanent removal from all Hajj operations. This zero-tolerance policy stresses the commitment of the National Hajj Commission to upholding ethical standards and ensuring that the pilgrimage is conducted with integrity and fairness. The Hajj is a significant religious event for Muslims worldwide, and the pilgrimage to Mecca is a deeply cherished aspiration for many. Recognizing the importance of facilitating this sacred journey in a transparent and equitable manner, the Cameroonian government is taking proactive steps to prevent exploitation and maintain the integrity of the Hajj process.
The announcement of the fixed price, coupled with the strict enforcement measures, reflecting the government’s commitment to ensuring that Cameroonian pilgrims can fulfil their religious duties without being subjected to unfair practices. By maintaining a transparent and regulated system, the National Hajj Commission aims to create a safe and reliable environment for pilgrims to embark on this spiritual journey.
