Accra, Sept. 7, GNA-GCB Bank has launched a dedicated savings account designed to support Muslims in Ghana as they plan towards the annual pilgrimage to Mecca.
Described as the first of its kind in Ghana, the GCB Hajj Accounts provides prospective pilgrims convenience and security enabling them to set aside funds over time into a dedicated account.
It allows customers to make flexible deposits from as little as GHS50.00, without monthly charges. .
It also comes with free e-alerts, e-statements, and an insurance cover to give pilgrims added peace of mind as they prepare for their journey.
Speaking at the launch, Sina Kamagate, Executive Head of Retail Banking, noted that the initiative goes beyond banking: “The GCB Hajj Account is more than a savings account. It is a commitment to helping our Muslim brothers and sisters fulfill one of the most important pillars of their faith. At GCB Bank, we believe in walking alongside our customers on every journey. That is what a Bank for Life does.”
The account is open to all Muslims capable of making regular deposits into it to meet the cost of the pilgrimage.
Account holders who return from the trip have the liberty of converting their account into a standard savings account to save for other purposes or invest the residual funds into any of GCB’s investment products.
Mr Kamagate said the creation of the special account was to protect the Muslim community from fraudulent practices in Hajj planning.
The bank, he stated, would facilitate the transfer of funds to chosen agents without directly moving money to agents’ accounts, ensuring a secure and transparent process.
Mr Kamagate said by easing the financial burden associated with Hajj, GCB Bank was empowering Muslims across the country to embark on their pilgrimage with the peace of mind, dignity and confidence.
“This new offering introduced by the bank is tailored to provide convenience and security for prospective pilgrims, enabling them to set aside funds over time into a dedicated account.
“Beyond offering a place to save, the GCB Hajj Account reflects the bank’s commitment to providing customer-centric solutions, as well as supporting the religious, cultural and financial needs of its diverse customer base,” he said.
An Islamic scholar and the Deputy Chief Imam at the Akosombo Muslim Community, Imam Abu Dardai Musah, commended the bank for creating the special account to facilitate savings towards the pilgrimage, which was one of the five pillars of Islam.
By easing the financial burden associated with Hajj, GCB Bank is empowering Muslims across Ghana to embark on their pilgrimage with peace of mind, dignity and confidence.
GCB Bank is a leading player in Ghana’s banking industry with 184 branches, 340 ATMs complemented by various innovative digital solutions.
GNA
Christian Akorlie