GCB launches special account for prospective Hajj pilgrims
GCB Bank PLC (GCB) has launched a special savings account to help Muslims to plan and save towards the annual Hajj pilgrimage.
Dubbed the “GCB Hajj Account”, prospective pilgrims planning to embark on the spiritual journey can open an account with an initial deposit of GH¢50.
The account is open to all Muslims capable of making regular deposits into it to meet the cost of the pilgrimage.
Customers of the account will enjoy no monthly charges, free e-alerts and e-statements, are also entitled to value-added features such as free insurance cover for the journey, giving prospective pilgrims added peace of mind.
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.
Launch
Speaking at the launch in Accra last Friday, the Executive Head of Retail Banking of GCB Bank PLC, Sina Kamagate, recalled how he got scammed in 2009 by an agent when he planned on saving towards the Hajj.
The creation of the special account, he said, 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.
As part of ongoing efforts by the bank to enhance access to financial services that aligned with Islamic principles, the GCB Bank Executive Head of Retail Banking announced the creation of an Islamic banking unit within the bank, marking a historic first in Ghana's banking sector.
Importance
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.
He said undertaking Hajj required not just physical presence but heartfelt intention and thorough preparation, hence the account would go a long way to help prospective pilgrims to plan sufficiently.
“The lack of preparation could lead to difficulties during the pilgrimage because if you don't prepare and you get to Haji, you’ll be stranded,” he said.