Rokel Commercial Bank Marks 26th Anniversary with Donations to Less Privileged


Rokel Commercial Bank, one of Sierra Leone’s leading financial institutions, celebrated its 26th anniversary by giving back to the community, donating essential food items and condiments to vulnerable and less privileged individuals in Freetown.

The outreach activities took place at two key locations: the PWD area and the Easter Police Barracks, targeting areas known for high concentrations of homeless and disadvantaged people.

The Managing Director of Rokel Commercial Bank, Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin, emphasized the social responsibility aspect of the initiative. “To realize the true impact of the bank, we also considered our Corporate Social Responsibility. There are people around us who are less advantaged, and according to how we operate, we need to come out and give them a bit of donations to show them we care. This demonstrates that we are a bank for the people,” Dr. Gilpin stated.

He explained the rationale behind the selection of the “buying business district” for the donations. The district, he noted, is home to vulnerable groups, including the disabled and homeless, who do not typically benefit from the bank’s financial services.

“While we provide cash loans to small businesses through financial intermediation, the less privileged and disabled rarely interact with banks. It is crucial that they feel included in the process,” he added.

Dr. Gilpin further highlighted that the anniversary celebrations are not confined to Freetown alone but are being observed across all Rokel branches nationwide.

He assured that the bank aims to continue growing, employing more people, giving more loans, and contributing to national GDP growth, thereby strengthening the financial sector in Sierra Leone and beyond.

The Marketing Manager, Michaela Dora Macauley, reflected on the bank’s achievements over the years, particularly in digital marketing. “Rokel Commercial Bank has achieved a lot, especially in digital marketing, which has now reached an international standard.

The bank will continue to market its products and services in ways that are accessible and acceptable to customers,” she said. Having served the bank for over 21 years, Macauley also expressed personal motivation and pride in being part of a progressive institution that celebrates different segments of society each year.

Aruna Dumbuya, Head of Public Relations at Rokel Commercial Bank, noted that this year’s anniversary celebration deviated from tradition by focusing on direct community support. “Previously, we celebrated more than 157 staff for long service awards. This year, we extended the celebration to include the vulnerable and less privileged, distributing rice, sugar, salt, tomato, and other essentials. This act signals hope and shows that life continues despite poverty,” he said. Dumbuya also credited the bank’s success to responsible leadership and the commitment of all staff members.

The bank now boasts 20 local branches, with recent additions in Cline Town and Waterloo, reflecting its goal of promoting financial inclusion across the country.

The anniversary coincided with a junior internship program hosted by Rokel, allowing members of the Kids Parliament to participate in the outreach.

During the internship, the young participants had the opportunity to rotate across various departments, gaining practical insights into banking operations. Miss Jackson, one of the interns, shared her experience: “I was assigned to the marketing department and learned how to deal with clients while maintaining strong customer relationships. It was a unique experience compared to my interactions with other banks.”

Another participant highlighted the strength and professionalism they developed while working under pressure at Rokel Commercial Bank. They praised the bank’s digital banking system as “unique” and emphasized how the internship encouraged exploration and learning about financial services.

Dr. Gilpin, acting as moderator, guided discussions and encouraged the children to understand the importance of financial inclusion, responsible banking, and innovation in digital services. He concluded by emphasizing the bank’s commitment to nurturing future leaders and ensuring that all citizens, regardless of social or economic status, feel supported by the financial system.

Rokel Commercial Bank’s 26th anniversary celebrations, therefore, combined both corporate reflection and social responsibility, demonstrating the institution’s dedication to inclusive growth, community engagement, and the professional development of the next generation.




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Local Government Minister Condemns Mayor’s Public Opposition to Freetown Division Plan


The Minister of Local Government and Community Affairs, Ambassador Tamba Lamina, has publicly rebuked Freetown Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr for her opposition to the government’s proposed plans to divide the city into two local councils.

Speaking in an interview with Truth Media, Minister Lamina described the Mayor’s June 3 open letter as “very disingenuous,” asserting that raising concerns on social media is not the appropriate avenue for public officials to engage on policy matters.

 

“You are the Mayor of Freetown; you don’t raise concerns on social media. That’s not how we engage,” he said, emphasizing that formal channels should be used to address contentious issues.

Mayor Ak-Sawyerr’s letter had warned that the proposed redistricting could have adverse effects on service delivery, coordination, and equitable resource distribution within the capital.

However, Minister Lamina stressed that such issues should be discussed through structured dialogue with the relevant government bodies rather than through public platforms, which he suggested could unnecessarily inflame public sentiment.

The comments come ahead of the scheduled public consultation on September 18, 2025, at the Freetown City Council Auditorium, where citizens and stakeholders will have the opportunity to provide input on the government’s plans.




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Orange SL Foundation and Mama-Pikin Foundation Join Forces to Improve Maternal and Neonatal Health in Underserved Communities


Since December 2020, Orange SL Foundation, in collaboration with the Mama-Pikin Foundation, CAP at Columbia University, and the Ministry of Health and Sanitation, has led a transformative maternal and neonatal health initiative in Sierra Leone’s most vulnerable communities.

Backed by funding from Orange SL, this effort addresses the country’s persistent challenge of high maternal and neonatal mortality rates.

According to official Government of Sierra Leone data, maternal mortality stood at 717 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2019. However, with increased investments and targeted interventions, the figure declined to 354 per 100,000 by 2023 a major improvement, but still among the highest globally.

Many of these deaths remain preventable, often linked to delays in accessing skilled care, poor health infrastructure, and a high rate of home deliveries.

From Pilot to National Impact: Launched in Kossoh Community, the pilot phase of the “Safeguarding Maternal Health Project” focused on holistic care from pregnancy to delivery and postnatal support. Key interventions of Orange and its implementing partner has included:

– Medical screening booths

– Infection prevention and control

– Health education and promotion

– Women’s care linkage

– Provision of baby care kits

After a year, Kossoh recorded a marked reduction in maternal deaths, prompting a full-scale expansion of the project in March 2024.

2020–2024 Achievements:

– Over 12 communities reached across rural and urban districts

– Over 20,000 mothers supported with safe delivery kits

– Introduction of facility-based care incentives to reduce home births

– Strengthened referral systems and improved health center capacities

Delivery Bucket Program: Encouraging Safer Births: The Mama-Pikin Foundation also scaled its impactful Delivery Bucket Program, supplying essential birth kits to pregnant women delivering at health facilities.

Each bucket contains basic hygiene and baby care items that support safe and dignified deliveries. Since early 2024, more than 20,000 delivery buckets have been distributed across targeted communities.

Communities Served Include:

-MMPS Hospital, Masongbo & Panlap CHCs (Makeni)

– Sewafe CHC (Kono), Hangha CHC (Kenema)

– York Village, Grafton, Kossoh Town (Western Area)

– Kailahun, Legbogbor, and Kondembaia (Northern Province)

Public-Private Partnership for National Progress: This initiative underscores the power of public-private partnerships in saving lives. Orange SL Foundation remains deeply committed to supporting national health goals and building healthier futures for Sierra Leonean women and children.

We extend sincere appreciation to the Ministry of Health and Sanitation, Mama-Pikin Foundation, and all partners for their continued dedication to this vital cause.




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Rokel Commercial Bank Marks 26th Anniversary with Donations to Less Privileged


Rokel Commercial Bank, one of Sierra Leone’s leading financial institutions, celebrated its 26th anniversary by giving back to the community, donating essential food items and condiments to vulnerable and less privileged individuals in Freetown.

The outreach activities took place at two key locations: the PWD area and the Easter Police Barracks, targeting areas known for high concentrations of homeless and disadvantaged people.

The Managing Director of Rokel Commercial Bank, Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin, emphasized the social responsibility aspect of the initiative. “To realize the true impact of the bank, we also considered our Corporate Social Responsibility. There are people around us who are less advantaged, and according to how we operate, we need to come out and give them a bit of donations to show them we care. This demonstrates that we are a bank for the people,” Dr. Gilpin stated.

He explained the rationale behind the selection of the “buying business district” for the donations. The district, he noted, is home to vulnerable groups, including the disabled and homeless, who do not typically benefit from the bank’s financial services.

“While we provide cash loans to small businesses through financial intermediation, the less privileged and disabled rarely interact with banks. It is crucial that they feel included in the process,” he added.

Dr. Gilpin further highlighted that the anniversary celebrations are not confined to Freetown alone but are being observed across all Rokel branches nationwide.

He assured that the bank aims to continue growing, employing more people, giving more loans, and contributing to national GDP growth, thereby strengthening the financial sector in Sierra Leone and beyond.

The Marketing Manager, Michaela Dora Macauley, reflected on the bank’s achievements over the years, particularly in digital marketing. “Rokel Commercial Bank has achieved a lot, especially in digital marketing, which has now reached an international standard.

The bank will continue to market its products and services in ways that are accessible and acceptable to customers,” she said. Having served the bank for over 21 years, Macauley also expressed personal motivation and pride in being part of a progressive institution that celebrates different segments of society each year.

Aruna Dumbuya, Head of Public Relations at Rokel Commercial Bank, noted that this year’s anniversary celebration deviated from tradition by focusing on direct community support. “Previously, we celebrated more than 157 staff for long service awards. This year, we extended the celebration to include the vulnerable and less privileged, distributing rice, sugar, salt, tomato, and other essentials. This act signals hope and shows that life continues despite poverty,” he said. Dumbuya also credited the bank’s success to responsible leadership and the commitment of all staff members.

The bank now boasts 20 local branches, with recent additions in Cline Town and Waterloo, reflecting its goal of promoting financial inclusion across the country.

The anniversary coincided with a junior internship program hosted by Rokel, allowing members of the Kids Parliament to participate in the outreach.

During the internship, the young participants had the opportunity to rotate across various departments, gaining practical insights into banking operations. Miss Jackson, one of the interns, shared her experience: “I was assigned to the marketing department and learned how to deal with clients while maintaining strong customer relationships. It was a unique experience compared to my interactions with other banks.”

Another participant highlighted the strength and professionalism they developed while working under pressure at Rokel Commercial Bank. They praised the bank’s digital banking system as “unique” and emphasized how the internship encouraged exploration and learning about financial services.

Dr. Gilpin, acting as moderator, guided discussions and encouraged the children to understand the importance of financial inclusion, responsible banking, and innovation in digital services. He concluded by emphasizing the bank’s commitment to nurturing future leaders and ensuring that all citizens, regardless of social or economic status, feel supported by the financial system.

Rokel Commercial Bank’s 26th anniversary celebrations, therefore, combined both corporate reflection and social responsibility, demonstrating the institution’s dedication to inclusive growth, community engagement, and the professional development of the next generation.




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RCBank Participates in Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF2025) in Algeria


Rokel Commercial Bank (RCBank) has made a strong statement of intent at the ongoing Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF2025) in Algiers, positioning itself as a driver of cross-border trade and investment through innovative financing, SME-focused solutions, and cutting-edge digital banking strategies.

The IATF  Africa’s largest trade and investment marketplace  has opened its doors to more than 35,000 visitors, 2,000 exhibitors, and participants from over 130 countries, creating vast opportunities for businesses and financial institutions across the continent.

RCBank’s delegation has been actively engaging partners and stakeholders, holding high-level discussions with Afrexim Bank and Oakwood Green Africa. These talks focused on strengthening collaborations across multiple business lines and exploring opportunities within the Africa Trade Gateway (ATG) platform.

Speaking at the bank’s exhibition booth, Deputy Managing Director Mr. Emmanuel E. Borbor emphasized the institution’s ambition to gain recognition beyond Sierra Leone’s borders, projecting itself as a regional financial player capable of supporting intra-African trade. Other team members of RCBank that participated in the Trade Fair include Umaru A.S. Shyllon, Rita Macauley, and Otilia Pratt-Davis.

As part of its engagements, the RCBank team also held a strategic meeting with Sierra Leone’s Minister of Trade and Industry as well as the country’s Ambassador to Algeria, underscoring the importance of aligning the bank’s efforts with national trade and investment goals.

Meanwhile, Afrexim Bank has extended an invitation to RCBank to participate in its upcoming Trade Finance Seminars in Nigeria, an opportunity expected to further deepen the bank’s expertise and partnerships in trade financing.

By leveraging platforms like IATF, RCBank is demonstrating its readiness to play a transformative role in Africa’s financial integration, supporting entrepreneurs, SMEs, and large-scale businesses in connecting with opportunities across the continent.




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Sierra Leone and Seven Other West African Countries in Malaysia to Unveil the Truth About QNET


QNET, a 26-year-old international direct selling company with operations in about 100 countries including Sierra Leone has invited journalists from seven West African countries to visit its Head Office in Malaysia and attend this year’s VCON, a global gathering of QNET’s independent distributors, marketing experts, entrepreneurs, and other stakeholders.

Among the journalists invited from QNET’s sub-Saharan Africa operations were senior reporters and editors from Ghana, Nigeria, Togo, Senegal, Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone. The Editor of Sierraloaded represented Sierra Leone.

As part of a tradition it began in 2022, QNET annually invites journalists from various countries to its headquarters to witness first-hand its operations and attend the company’s flagship conference, VCON, in Malaysia. This is part of its continued efforts to counter misinformation and build transparency around its brand and products.

In recent years, QNET has faced widespread misconceptions, as scammers have falsely used the company’s name to defraud people. In response, QNET has increased public education through press statements, media engagement events, and partnerships with security and government agencies particularly in Sierra Leone. It has also launched a robust anti-fraud initiative called “QNET Against Scams,” aimed at offering clear, factual information about the company and its offerings.

As part of the media tour, West African journalists visited QNET’s 15-storey headquarters, the QI Tower a towering and modern facility that visibly reinforces the company’s legitimacy and global reach. They also toured the QNET product gallery, where they could see and experience the lifestyle and wellness products the company manufactures for customers in Sierra Leone, Africa, and beyond.

Journalists participated in presentations detailing QNET’s business structure, philosophy, model, and product lines. During these sessions, it was made evident that QNET is a long-established company with a genuine presence and commitment to African markets. The media team was also introduced to the RYTHM Foundation (Raise Yourself To Help Mankind), the company’s corporate social responsibility arm, which supports impactful humanitarian projects worldwide.

Day One of the tour emphasized QNET’s operations in Africa especially Sierra Leone where fraudulent individuals have used the company’s name to exploit innocent people. QNET made it clear that it has no association with such individuals and is actively working to combat scams and misinformation. Inviting journalists from several African countries is one way QNET aims to increase transparency and correct public misconceptions.

During the sessions, QNET repeatedly clarified the following:

It does not offer job opportunities abroad or require large payments in exchange for employment.

It does not offer scholarships or visa services.

QNET is not a Ponzi scheme or an investment platform.

Anyone spreading such false claims should be reported to security agencies or directly to QNET via its WhatsApp hotline: +233 256 630 005.

VCON 2025 officially opens on June 21, 2025, on the beautiful island of Penang, Malaysia, with over 8,000 participants expected from around the world.




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Bank of Sierra Leone Announces Reduction in Monetary Policy Rate to Boost Economic Growth


The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Bank of Sierra Leone (BSL) has reduced the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) by 1 percentage point to 23.75%, effective June 24, 2025, in a move aimed at lowering borrowing costs and stimulating private sector investment.

The decision, approved by the BSL Board of Directors on June 23, follows a review of global and domestic economic conditions. Governor Dr. Ibrahim L. Stevens announced corresponding adjustments to the Standing Lending Facility Rate (SLFR) and Standing Deposit Facility Rate (SDFR), now set at 26.75% and 17.25%, respectively.

The MPC’s decision comes amid a cautiously optimistic outlook for Sierra Leone’s economy, underpinned by a significant decline in domestic inflation from 13.78% in December 2024 to 7.55% in May 2025. This drop, attributed to prudent monetary policies, fiscal discipline, stable fuel prices, and a relatively steady exchange rate, has created room for the BSL to ease monetary policy to support investment and growth.

Globally, the economic landscape remains challenging, with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), and the World Bank revising down their 2025 global growth forecasts to 2.8%, 2.9%, and 2.3%, respectively. These downgrades reflect trade policy shifts and geopolitical tensions, which could disrupt supply chains and exert inflationary pressures on Sierra Leone’s economy. Despite these risks, the MPC noted that global inflation is expected to decline in 2025 and 2026 due to tighter monetary policies and falling commodity prices.

Domestically, Sierra Leone’s economy is projected to grow by 4.5% in 2025, up from 4.0% in 2024, driven by strong performances in mining, agriculture, and services. The MPC anticipates growth to rise further to 4.7% in 2026 and 2027, supported by government initiatives to enhance agricultural productivity. However, external risks such as global supply chain disruptions and trade tensions could pose challenges, prompting calls for policies to bolster economic resilience.

The MPC highlighted mixed developments in Sierra Leone’s external and fiscal sectors. The trade deficit widened in the first quarter of 2025 due to higher import costs and lower export earnings, while foreign exchange reserves fell to cover just 1.8 months of imports. On the fiscal front, the budget deficit grew in early 2025 due to lower domestic revenue and higher interest payments, though reduced spending on goods, services, and subsidies narrowed the primary deficit. A decline in the 364-day Treasury Bill rate has eased borrowing costs, providing fiscal space for the government.

Monetary developments showed a contraction in reserve money but moderate growth in broad money (M2) in the first quarter. While credit to the private sector increased, it remains insufficient to drive significant investment. The MPC stressed the need for a more inclusive credit environment to support private sector growth.

In its statement, the MPC emphasised that the rate cut aims to encourage private sector credit, reduce borrowing costs, and promote sustainable growth while maintaining vigilance over inflationary risks. The next MPC meeting is scheduled for 25 September 2025.




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Sierra Leone Commercial Bank Signs Strategic Partnership With Republic Bank Ghana


Sierra Leone Commercial Bank (SLCB) has taken a significant step toward regional integration and institutional strengthening by signing a technical cooperation agreement with Republic Bank Ghana.

This strategic partnership aims to enhance SLCB’s operational capacity and accelerate its transformation into a modern, innovation-led financial institution within West Africa.

More than just a ceremonial accord, the agreement signifies a commitment to deep technical collaboration, focusing on knowledge exchange, capacity building, and the enhancement of expertise. These elements are core to SLCB’s long-term vision of becoming a resilient bank that meets diverse financial needs across the region.

The official signing ceremony took place in Accra, Ghana, and featured key leadership figures from both banks. Republic Bank Ghana was represented by its Managing Director, Board Chairman, and other senior executives, while SLCB’s delegation included its Board Chairman, Managing Director, Director of Finance, and Head of the Company Secretariat, highlighting the strategic importance of the partnership.

Through this alliance, SLCB aims to leverage Republic Bank Ghana’s extensive experience and technical knowledge to drive excellence in service delivery, digital transformation, and sustainable banking practices. The collaboration is expected to lead to improved product offerings, more efficient systems, and greater customer satisfaction within Sierra Leone’s banking sector.

Both banks reaffirmed their shared vision of promoting higher standards in regional banking. The partnership is anticipated to yield mutual benefits, strengthening institutional performance and contributing to broader economic development in both Sierra Leone and Ghana.

This technical cooperation marks a pivotal moment in SLCB’s growth journey, signaling its readiness to embrace regional opportunities and deliver lasting value to customers, employees, shareholders, and the financial ecosystem at large.




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Afrimoney and Chicken Town Launch “Pay With Afrimoney And Get Free Delivery” Promotion |


Afrimoney Sierra Leone and Chicken Town, in a move to enhance customer convenience and promote cashless transactions, have officially launched a joint promotion titled “Pay with Afrimoney and Get Free Delivery.”

The partnership event took place at Chicken Town Headquarters on Old Railway Line on Friday, 27th June, 2025.

The promotion, which runs from June 27 to July 31, 2025, aims to drive mobile money usage while improving food delivery services across Freetown.

John Konteh, Marketing Director of Afrimoney, expressed optimism about the partnership, stating, “This initiative aligns with a global trend toward digital financial services and cashless economies.”

He further asserted the rapid growth of mobile money globally, noting that there are currently around 2 billion registered mobile money users worldwide. Konteh emphasized the remarkable adoption of mobile money in Sierra Leone, particularly in the Western Area.

According to 2024 data from the Ministry of Finance, mobile money usage in Freetown has reached 100% penetration, indicating that nearly every mobile phone user in the city utilizes a mobile money account for various financial transactions.

Through the new promotion, customers who place food orders and pay via Afrimoney will benefit from free delivery. The offer is particularly timely during Sierra Leone’s rainy season when many prefer the convenience of home delivery.

To access the promotion, customers can call 392 to place their order and pay using Afrimoney. Once payment is confirmed and the delivery location is provided, the order will be delivered without any delivery fees.

Konteh also mentioned a target of 2,000 Afrimoney-powered orders through Chicken Town before the promotion ends on July 31. He noted, “This promotion not only rewards users with free delivery but also helps reinforce Afrimoney as the default mobile payment option for food services.”

Nathalie Mansaray, Marketing Lead at Chicken Town, echoed Konteh’s enthusiasm, stating, “At Chicken Town, we’re focused on delivering not just delicious meals, but also great service and innovative experiences.” She emphasized that the free delivery offer aligns with Chicken Town’s goals for expanding its business footprint and enhancing delivery efficiency.

Mansaray also hinted at future collaborative campaigns and service innovations, promising exciting updates in the coming months. With mobile technology increasingly shaping consumer behavior, the Afrimoney-Chicken Town promotion is expected to drive digital payment adoption and reshape customer service expectations in Sierra Leone’s growing food service industry.

As the rainy season begins in July, they encouraged customers to take advantage of this cost-saving offer, enjoying Chicken Town meals delivered to their doors at no extra charge when they dial 392, pay with Afrimoney, and provide their delivery location.




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Rokel Commercial Bank Deepens Liberia Expansion Talks with Embassy and Business Leaders |


Rokel Commercial Bank (RCB) is taking strategic steps toward expanding its operations into Liberia, with the bank’s Managing Director, Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin, leading a high-powered delegation to the Sierra Leone Embassy in Monrovia as part of an ongoing feasibility mission.

The visit, welcomed by Head of Chancery Mrs. Sia A. Tejan, involved cordial and insightful exchanges with embassy officials. It forms part of RCB’s regional expansion strategy in line with President Julius Maada Bio’s vision for Sierra Leonean institutions to establish a presence across West Africa.

Dr. Gilpin emphasized the importance of the visit, noting that the bank had already met with key Liberian stakeholders including the Governor of the Central Bank and the Minister of Finance who were supportive of the initiative.

In addition to diplomatic engagements, Dr. Gilpin revealed that the delegation also held productive discussions with Liberian business leaders.

As we continue to explore the potentials for business in Liberia, we also met with Liberian business leaders to share our vision,” he stated. “That engagement was crucial as far as directing our focus and making the decisions that would ultimately lead us to where we want to be as a bank.”

Deputy Ambassador Lusine Kallon commended the RCB team for their forward-looking approach, raising strategic questions which were ably addressed by Dr. Gilpin and Director of Internal Audit, Mr. Charles B.S. Sesay. Mr. Sesay further stressed the key role of the Embassy’s Trade Attaché, Mr. Faroog Cole, in connecting the bank with Liberia’s private sector.

As a token of goodwill, Dr. Gilpin presented copies of RCB’s corporate magazine to the embassy team. The Head of Chancery later handed them over to the Deputy Ambassador, who assured the delegation of the Embassy’s continued support.

The RCB delegation included senior officials from key departments such as Operations and Treasury, Enterprise Risk Management, Marketing, Finance, Public Relations, and Simkorpor Mobile Services, reflecting the bank’s broad-based commitment to exploring sustainable opportunities in the Liberian market.

This mission marks a significant milestone in RCB’s regional growth journey, positioning the bank as a leading force in West Africa’s financial services sector.

 




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