Islamic scholars in Tamale have welcomed the launch of the GCB Hajj Savings Account, describing it as a vital step towards helping Muslims in Ghana to prepare financially and spiritually for the annual pilgrimage to Mecca.
Speaking at the launch in Tamale last Thursday, the Head of the Shia Community in Tamale, Sheikh Abdul Mumin, said the initiative was timely and impactful for Muslims who aspired to perform the Hajj.
“The pilgrimage is very important for Muslims, and its significance cannot be underestimated. It is when you go and return that you truly appreciate its value.
Allah is indeed the giver and most merciful, but we cannot fold our arms and wait. We must plan and save little by little, and Insha Allah, we will get there,” he said.
For his part, the Chief Imam of the 6th Garrison of the Air Force based in Tamale, Sheikh Abdul-Rahim Yamusah, commended GCB Bank for making the sacred journey more accessible.
He urged Muslims to take advantage of the initiative as the account provided a practical and Sharia-compliant path for prospective pilgrims.
He stressed that "this is a Sharia-compliant initiative that provides convenience and security for Muslims who wish to perform Hajj. It will allow us to save gradually and with dignity, without fear of exploitation".
Hajj Account
The new GCB Hajj Account was first unveiled in Accra on September 5 and officially launched in Tamale on September 11 this year.
It is a specialised product designed to help Muslims save flexibly towards the pilgrimage.
The account, described as the first of its kind in Ghana, allows customers to make flexible deposits from as little as GH¢50.00, without monthly charges.
It also includes free e-alerts, e-statements, and insurance cover to provide pilgrims with extra peace of mind while preparing for their journey.
Importantly, the product is Sharia-compliant, which implies that it was in line with Islamic principles of banking.
The Head of Retail Sales and Distribution of GCB Bank, Alhaji Yaquob Mahmoud Gomda, explained that the account did not accrue interest, which Islam forbids as riba.
“There will be no charges or interest. It is a safe and lawful option for every Muslim who dreams of performing Hajj,” he said.
Reducing risk
The Head of Retail Banking at GCB Bank, Sina Kamagate, shared his experience of being defrauded by an agent in 2009 when he attempted to save for Hajj.
Mr Kamagate added that aside from reducing risks and easing the financial burden, GCB Bank was giving Muslims across the country peace of mind as they prepared for their sacred journey.
“The Bank will facilitate the transfer of funds directly to accredited agents without putting money into their private accounts, ensuring a secure and transparent process,” he said.
Impact
For many Muslims in Ghana, the high cost of Hajj has been a major obstacle.
With costs running into tens of thousands of cedis, many pilgrims are forced to rely on loans and informal savings.
Sometimes, they fall victim to fraudulent schemes.
The GCB Hajj Account, therefore, aims to change this by providing a structured, safe, and accessible platform for gradual savings.
The initiative also seeks to strengthen trust between the banking sector and Ghana’s Muslim community while aligning financial services with cultural and religious needs.
