Staff Reporter Lahore
HBL’s Islamic banking arm and Akhuwat have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to roll out a programme that will provide Shariah-compliant housing finance facilities to applicants identified by Akhuwat.
The MoU was signed in Lahore by Akhuwat Founder Dr Amjad Saqib and HBL Islamic Banking Head Muhammad Afaq Khan. Through this MoU, Akhuwat will not only recommend the individuals but will also oversee the construction of houses for selected applicants.
Akhuwat has a solid track record of work on alleviating poverty and empowering socially and economically marginalized families through interest-free micro-finance and by harnessing entrepreneurial potential, capacity building and social guidance. Article continues after this advertisement
HBL is the first bank in Pakistan to have entered into this relationship with Akhuwat, which has a substantially large client base and network to reach out to people across the country.
This project will uplift the lives of millions of people in the Pakistan and is in line with the Government of Pakistan’s (GoP) vision of providing affordable housing units to underserved segments of society through Naya Pakistan Housing and Development Authority (NAPHDA).
NAPHDA is a special body formed by the GoP and is the biggest government-backed housing program ever attempted.
Commenting on this strategic partnership, Muhammad Aurangzeb, President & CEO – HBL stated, “This agreement will help further the Bank’s financial inclusion agenda by helping finance cost effective, sustainable housing units for previously underserved segments of the country.
We look forward to working with the professional team at Akhuwat and to play our part in furthering the next phase of Pakistan’s economic development.”
Dr. Amjad Saqib stated, “Akhuwat Islamic Microfinance is happy to work with HBL, the largest bank in Pakistan, for provision of low-cost houses for poor and needy.
Through this collaboration, we intend to support the poor to build their own houses, InshaAllah”.
Commenting at the signing, Muhammad Afaq Khan, Head, Islamic Banking – HBL, said “Pakistan faces a housing crisis.
