Gulf African Bank, Kenya's pioneer fully Shar'iah Compliant Bank, has launched the Annisaa Savings Account which is specifically designed for women to enable them to save for their future. The account which is open to women from all walks of life; both Muslim and Non-Muslim, will see ladies enjoy benefits such as personalized banking, monthly payment of profit into accounts with over Ksh. 10,000 minimum balance, no ledger fees, access to personal finance and investment products as well as a dedicated special counter for women in the banking halls.

While unveiling the Annisaa Savings Account, at an event whose guest list comprised exclusively of women, Fatuma Hirsi Mohamed, Head of Marketing and Corporate Affairs - Gulf African Bank said, "Women hold a very special place in our lives, they are mothers, wives, sisters, daughters and friends. Gulf African Bank understands the unique significance role that women play in the economy and that is why this product has been specifically tailored to meet their needs".

Gulf African Bank started operations in January and has so far opened 6 branches in Nairobi and Mombasa. The 7th branch will be opened in Garissa this October. The tremendous growth and positive response so far has meant that women are not left behind as Fatuma elaborated, "Islamic banking is rapidly gaining a foothold in Kenya. Since time immemorial, women the world over have played a major role in financial dealings whether at the domestic, business or corporate level and it is with this in mind that we have tailor-made a product that is dedicated to women and offers them that personal touch that other accounts will not."

"Our personalised banking will see account holders have access to expert advice on personal finance as well as investment which will contribute to the financial empowerment and ultimately enhance social and economic status of women" she concluded.

To further enhance the Annisaa Savings Account product offering, the bank has partnered with various companies to offer additional benefits such as discounts at select outlets such as Sitara Store at Capital Centre, Nairobi; Royal Court Rooftop Restaurant and Royal Court Fitness Centre in Mombasa respectively; Sarova Health Clubs; Hashmi's Gift Store at Nakumatt Ukay, Nairobi; Nawal Centre, Mombasa; Multichoice Kenya; Baraket Turkish Furniture Company and A A Mithaiwalla Sweet Shop in Pangani, Nairobi. Further benefits will accrue from discounted products from other partners like Qatar Airways, Zain and Kenya Breast Health Program.

The Annisaa Savings Account joins a Shar'iah compliant product portfolio, which include current accounts under which there is Personal Current Account and Business Current Account; and other savings accounts such as the Children's Account and Students Account. The bank also recently launched the Hajj Savings Account targeted at Muslims who wish to perform the Hajj.