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GTBank Celebrates Customer Service Week 2025 With Style, Culture, and Service Excellence


Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank) Sierra Leone celebrated Customer Service Week 2025 from Monday, 13th October to Friday, 17th October across all branches with enthusiasm, style, and an unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional customer service.

Held under the theme “Mission Possible”, this year’s celebration highlighted the importance of customer satisfaction and teamwork while reflecting GTBankSL’s vibrant culture and dedication to excellence.

The week was not only about fun and fashion, it was a heartfelt expression of appreciation to the customers who form the heart of the bank’s mission.



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The week kicked off with a bold blend of professionalism and flair. Staff stepped out in vibrant corporate wear, adding a colorful twist to their usual office attire. The atmosphere was upbeat, and branches radiated confidence and readiness. It was a statement that service begins not just with competence but with presence.

On Tuesday, Staff swapped suits for jeans and jerseys, bringing sporty energy to the workplace. Jerseys from local and international teams filled the room with friendly banter. It was a day that highlighted team spirit, reminding everyone that success in customer service is a team game.

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Wednesday was a walk down memory lane. From flared trousers to retro hairstyles, staff embraced classic styles from past decades. The vintage vibe added nostalgia to the air, reminding both staff and customers of how far the bank has come, and how solid values never go out of fashion.

Sleek, classy, and modern; Thursday’s theme combined timeless formal wear with the comfort of sneakers. The look symbolized GTBankSL’s philosophy: professionalism with a modern, dynamic edge. Staff looked sharp, felt confident, and served customers with extra flair.

The week ended on a high note with a colorful celebration of Sierra Leone’s diverse cultures. Staff dressed in traditional outfits representing the nation’s rich ethnic heritage. The day was filled with warmth, pride, and unity. Customers were greeted in local languages, reinforcing GTBankSL’s deep-rooted connection with the communities it serves.

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Throughout the week, customers were met with smiles, gratitude, and personalized service. Special decorations, cultural displays, and engaging activities filled the banking halls, creating memorable experiences for both staff and clients.
In a special message to commemorate the week, GTBank Sierra Leone’s Managing Director, Daniel Attah, expressed heartfelt appreciation to both customers and staff:

“Great service begins with great people. Your trust, feedback and partnership fuel our drive to serve with excellence,empathy and innovation. Every time you reach out, share your thoughts or place your goals in our care, you help us grow stronger and smarter. You make the mission not just possible but meaningful.”

GTBankSL’s Customer Service Week 2025 was more than just a celebration, it was a powerful reminder of the bank’s mission to deliver beyond expectations, to serve with heart, and to continue making the Mission Possible.



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NRA Boss Urges Fiscal Self-Reliance as World Bank Support Plunges from $100M to Zero


Jeneba Bangura, Commissioner General of Sierra Leone’s National Revenue Authority (NRA) has warned thattraditional aid flows to developing nations are drying up, revealing that the country’s annual budget support from the World Bank has plummeted from $\text{\$100}$ million to a projected zero in just two years.

Bangura made the sobering disclosure during a high-level panel at the IMF–World Bank Annual Meetings, underscoring the intense fiscal pressure now driving an aggressive push for self-reliance in Freetown.

“In the past, we received about $100 million a year in budget support from the World Bank,” Bangura stated. “But in 2024, that dropped to $40 million, and as I speak for 2025, we may not receive anything at all.”



She noted that other key partners, including the UK’s FCDO, have followed a similar trend, although the European Union has resumed limited support.

Bangura explained that these sharp cuts often occur after national budgets have been finalized, forcing the government to scramble to “reprioritize and rearrange spending.” This abrupt loss of funding, she said, “intensifies the demand for more domestic revenue.”

In response, Sierra Leone has embarked on a drastic domestic revenue mobilization campaign. Bangura disclosed that the government raised its revenue target by 46 percent in 2024 and is projecting a further 30 percent increase in 2025. Oversight has been intensified, with the finance ministry now monitoring tax collection on a daily basis.

The panel, titled “Taxing Smarter after Aid,” explored the difficult path for countries like Sierra Leone as traditional aid flows dry up. The discussion also touched on the constraints of international lending programs, with experts from Tax Justice Network Africa arguing that IMF conditions limit countries’ policy flexibility and can reinforce inequality.

While Ceren Ozer, a World Bank manager, pointed to nearly $7 billion in active concessional lending projects aimed at boosting domestic revenue, the immediate budget crisis described by Bangura painted a stark picture of the challenges on the ground.

 

 



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Sharlimar Trading Company CEO Denies Monopoly Claims, Calls Allegations Baseless


The Chief Executive Officer of Sharlimar Trading Company, Mr. Mousa Morrowa, has dismissed allegations of monopolizing the importation of Kekehs and TVS motorbikes in Sierra Leone, describing such claims as baseless and misleading.

Speaking during a recent media engagement held at the company’s headquarters in Lumley, Freetown, Mr. Morrowa clarified that monopoly is against the laws of Sierra Leone and that the national constitution explicitly forbids such practices.

“I have never monopolized the importation of Kekehs or TVS bikes,” Mr. Morrowa stated. “Every businessman in Sierra Leone has the constitutional right to import his or her preferred brand from any manufacturer of choice.”



He further explained that the TVS brand was selected directly from a manufacturing company in India, emphasizing that similar arrangements exist for other brands such as Yamaha and Honda, which are imported by different business entities.

According to Mr. Morrowa, this practice does not constitute monopoly but rather reflects brand-specific business partnerships that are common in global trade.

“It is unlawful to prevent a business investor from importing a chosen brand from a manufacturer that they have legally partnered with,” he noted.

Sharlimar Trading Company, which has operated in Sierra Leone for nearly a century, continues to play a significant role in the nation’s economic growth through job creation and nationwide business expansion. The company maintains branches across the country’s four regions and remains one of the leading contributors to national income generation.

Mr. Morrowa encouraged the media and civil society advocates to verify facts before drawing conclusions, stressing the importance of neutrality and accuracy in public discourse.

He also appealed to customers and stakeholders to focus on constructive engagement, particularly on ways to reduce prices of bikes and Kekehs to make them more accessible to the public.

“Our doors remain open to the media and the general public,” he said. “We want people to understand the genuine investment Sharlimar trading company  is making to complement government’s efforts in job creation and national development.”

The CEO concluded by reaffirming his commitment to fair competition, transparency, and continued investment in Sierra Leone’s economy.

“Anyone can go to the manufacturing companies in India, choose a brand, and build a business around it. That is how fair trade works,” he added.

Mr. Morrowa called on Sierra Leoneans to support genuine investors rather than spreading misinformation aimed at tarnishing reputations.

Source: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1CgsR5xw4R/



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Orange Sierra Leone Unveils 2024 CSR Report on Economic Growth and Community Transformation


Orange Sierra Leone has published its 2024 Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Report, highlighting major achievements in national development, digital advancement, environmental sustainability, and community well-being.

The report reflects the company’s continued commitment to supporting government priorities and improving lives through inclusive and responsible business practices.

Strong Economic Contribution and Local Empowerment



In 2024, Orange Sierra Leone contributed NLe781 million directly to the national economy through taxes, licenses, wages, and other statutory payments. The company also played a vital role in supporting Sierra Leonean businesses, generating NLe998 million in revenue for local suppliers across multiple sectors. This aligns with Orange’s strategy to prioritize local partnerships and strengthen domestic value chains.

Expanding Digital Inclusion Nationwide

A major highlight of the report is the expansion of digital access across the country. In 2024, 95% of the population was covered by 4G broadband, enabling more Sierra Leoneans to access online services, education, and business opportunities. To ensure network resilience and reduce carbon emissions, approximately 70% of Orange’s network sites are now solar-powered, reflecting the company’s investment in clean and sustainable energy.

Environmental Commitment Through Reforestation

Orange also advanced its environmental commitments, planting 10,000 trees in Kawase Hill, Moyamba District. This reforestation effort is aimed at restoring degraded land, protecting biodiversity, and supporting climate resilience in rural communities.

Youth Empowerment Through Skills and Innovation

The Orange Digital Center (ODC) continued to serve as a national hub for education, innovation, and entrepreneurship. In 2024 alone, the ODC trained over 14,500 young people in digital literacy, coding, entrepreneurship, and technology-based skills.

  • Women represented 47% of total trainees, reflecting the company’s drive toward gender inclusion.
  • 38% of beneficiaries secured job opportunities or started income-generating activities, demonstrating the centre’s impact on employability.

Community Impact Through the Orange Sierra Leone Foundation

Through its foundation, Orange impacted 14,627 beneficiaries across the country with programmes focused on education, health, women’s empowerment, youth development, and community resilience. Initiatives included scholarships, rural school support, digital education for girls, maternal health partnerships, breast cancer awareness, and emergency community support projects.

Driving a National Vision Through Responsible Business

The CSR Report emphasizes Orange Sierra Leone’s dedication to supporting the government’s development agenda especially in digitalization, youth employment, community health, and economic sustainability. The company reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive growth, responsible technology use, and environmental stewardship.

In CEO Sekou Amadou Bah’s statement accompanying the report, he noted, “Our CSR ambition is a direct reflection of our brand values: Care, Bold, and Responsible. It speaks powerfully to our renewed brand message: Orange is Here! This presence goes beyond the physical it symbolizes our unwavering dedication to improving the lives of Sierra Leoneans in meaningful and sustainable ways.”

Orange Sierra Leone noted that its achievements are the result of collective effort across staff, partners, customers, and communities, and reaffirmed its dedication to making technology a force for positive change.

To access the Full Report, Scan the QR Code below or visit the company’s official website: https://www.orange.sl/en/csrannualreport-2024.html

With its ambitious goals and growing impact, Orange Sierra Leone continues to position itself not only as a leader in connectivity and innovation but also as a driving force for national transformation.



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Afrikonet.sl – The Fastest and Most Secure Online Marketplace in Sierra Leone


In today’s world, buying and selling online is one of the fastest ways to do business. But in Sierra Leone, many people still face challenges when it comes to shopping or selling online. That is why Afrikonet.sl was created — to make online buying and selling easy, fast, and secure for everyone.

Breaking the Barriers of Online Business in Sierra Leone

For many years, business owners and customers have faced problems such as:



Lack of trust between buyers and sellers
Limited or unreliable payment methods
Late deliveries and fake products
Few platforms where vendors can showcase their goods to a wider audience

Afrikonet.sl was launched to solve these issues. Since its launch in May this year, over 2,000 people have already joined the platform. This shows how ready Sierra Leoneans are for a reliable online marketplace.

Safe and Flexible Payment Options

Afrikonet.sl provides a simple and secure payment system that works for everyone. Buyers can pay using:

Orange Money
Afrimoney
Debit Card
Payment on Delivery

This flexibility gives both vendors and customers confidence in every transaction.

A Local Team You Can Trust

Afrikonet.sl is not just a website — it has a physical office and a dedicated team of marketers in Sierra Leone. The local presence means vendors and buyers can get real support whenever they need it. The marketing team helps vendors set up their stores, promote their products, and reach more customers.

A Golden Opportunity for Young People

In this digital age, young people have the chance to make money from the comfort of their homes. Afrikonet.sl gives Sierra Leonean youth a simple way to open an online store, list their products, and start earning. Whether you sell clothes, gadgets, food, or local crafts, Afrikonet.sl helps you grow your business fast.

Why Choose Afrikonet.sl

Fast and secure online transactions
Multiple payment options
Local presence and support team

👥 Trusted by 500+ users since launch
🚀 Great opportunity for young entrepreneurs

Join Afrikonet.sl Today

If you are a vendor who wants to grow your business or a buyer searching for trusted products, Afrikonet.sl is the solution.

Visit www.afrikonet.sl to open your store today and start making money online.



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Orange Foundation Launches Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign


Orange Foundation Sierra Leone, in partnership with Sierra Leone Commercial Bank (SLCB), has officially launched a nationwide Breast Cancer Awareness and Sensitization Campaign at the Orange Foundation Event Centre.

The event marked the start of activities for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, bringing together health experts, corporate partners, stakeholders, and communities to promote early detection, prevention, and treatment of breast cancer.



As part of its corporate social responsibility, SLCB donated $27,500 to support the month-long campaign. The funds will cover half the cost of a new mammogram machine and help extend screening and outreach across the country.

Making the announcement, SLCB Director of Audit, Madam Olayinka Philips, highlighted the urgent need for action.

“It is an honour to stand with Orange Foundation Sierra Leone in launching this vital initiative. Across Africa, too many cancers are detected too late. In Sierra Leone alone, nearly 3,000 women lost their lives to cancer in 2020, with breast cancer being the leading cause,” she said.

She stressed the importance of partnerships and early detection, noting that only five of 47 African countries have organized national screening programmes. She further stated that the bank’s support will also fund nationwide awareness drives, workplace and school sensitization, post-surgical support, and free basic screening for all female SLCB staff.

“Our commitment is not just a duty; it is an investment in health, dignity, and empowerment,” Madam Philips added.

 

Orange Sierra Leone CEO and Chairman of Orange Foundation, Sekou Amadou Bah, expressed appreciation for SLCB’s support.

“Our journey in breast cancer awareness began in 2015 with the belief that no woman should die from a disease that can be detected early. In 2024, we screened 1,400 women; this year, we aim to reach 2,500,” he revealed.

He lamented the high late-stage diagnosis rate, noting that over 70% of breast cancer patients at Connaught Hospital are diagnosed too late for effective treatment.

“We are breaking barriers by bringing free screening to communities, educating women, and encouraging early action. Awareness alone is not enough—we must build trust, expand access, and stand with survivors,” Bah stated.

Deputy Minister of Health 1, Dr. Charles Senesie, praised the initiative for aligning with government efforts to improve women’s health.

“Since 2020, we have reduced maternal mortality significantly, and by 2038, our bold vision is zero preventable maternal deaths. This campaign builds on that vision, moving us from late diagnosis to early detection,” he said.

He commended Orange Foundation and SLCB for their partnership, emphasizing that joint efforts are key to changing the breast cancer narrative in Sierra Leone.

Dr. Isaac Smalle, Surgical Oncologist at Connaught Hospital, educated participants on the causes, symptoms, risk factors, and treatment of breast cancer. He underscored the need for early screening, healthy lifestyles, and stronger referral systems, while acknowledging existing challenges such as limited diagnostic infrastructure and cultural barriers.

The launch event ended with a renewed call for united action to fight breast cancer, raise awareness, and save lives across Sierra Leone.



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Global Direct Selling Leader QNET Celebrates 27 Years, Showcasing Economic Impact and Announces Landmark Ghana Convention


QNET, a leading global lifestyle and wellness direct selling company, concluded its spectacular 27th-anniversary convention, V-Malaysia 2025, in Penang.

The event, endorsed by Tourism Malaysia, welcomed over 10,000 independent distributors from more than 30 countries, serving as a powerful testament to the company’s global community and the significant economic benefits of its flagship events.

Held for the 13th consecutive year in Penang, the five-day convention underscored Malaysia’s position as a premier MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) destination. The partnership with Tourism Malaysia highlighted how major corporate events drive tourism, hospitality, and local economic activity.



A Global Stage for Innovation and Culture

The convention opened with a vibrant celebration of Malaysian culture at the SPICE Arena, featuring music, dance, and the appearance of ‘Wira’ and ‘Manja’, the Malayan sun bear mascots for the upcoming Visit Malaysia Year 2026 campaign. This fusion of global business and local tradition set the stage for an event focused on empowerment and connection.

Driving Entrepreneurship with Cutting-Edge Products

V-Malaysia 2025 served as the launchpad for QNET’s latest innovations designed to enhance personal wellness and lifestyle. Key launches included:

Harmoniq-Snooze: An adhesive bio-signaling patch designed to promote deeper, restorative sleep.

Qwik-Vibe: A clean, fast-acting oral strip for instant energy and mental focus.

The Bernhard H. Mayer® PTLuxe & Insignia Collections: New lines of platinum jewellery symbolizing resilience and style.

“For 27 years, QNET has been about empowering individuals to take control of their health and financial future,” said Trevor Kuna, Chief Marketing Officer at QNET. “V-Malaysia is the physical embodiment of our mission a place where innovation meets culture, inspiring our entrepreneurs from Sub-Saharan Africa, the Middle East, Central Asia, and Southeast Asia to achieve more.”

Inspiring a Global Audience with a Story of Resilience

A defining moment of the convention was the keynote address by Sparsh Shah, a global youth icon, motivational speaker, and recording artist. Born with Osteogenesis Imperfecta (Brittle Bone Disease), Sparsh has overcome profound physical challenges to become a beacon of resilience and determination.

He captivated the audience of thousands by sharing his life’s journey, weaving his powerful narrative with his original music. His message urged every participant to recognize their own unique potential and to harness an unstoppable mindset in the pursuit of their ambitions.

“Having Sparsh Shah share his incredible story was a deeply moving experience for our global community,” said Trevor Kuna, Chief Marketing Officer at QNET. “He embodies the very essence of RYTHM rising above circumstances to inspire others. His presence reminded us all that entrepreneurship is not just about business success, but about the power of the human spirit to overcome any obstacle.”

A Legacy of Empowerment and Economic Partnership

Beyond the celebration, QNET used the occasion to announce its next major regional convention: V-Africa 2026, scheduled for the first quarter of 2026 in Ghana. This strategic move signals QNET’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and contributing to economic development in key growth markets.

“Our conventions are more than just meetings; they are economic partnerships with host nations,” Kuna added. “The success of V-Malaysia demonstrates how business tourism creates a positive ripple effect. We are thrilled to build on this legacy and bring the same energy and opportunity to Ghana with V-Africa 2026, further solidifying our commitment to empowering entrepreneurs across the African continent.”

V-Malaysia is rooted in QNET’s mission of RYTHM – Raise Yourself To Help Mankind, serving as a global platform for entrepreneurship, personal growth, and community.

For more information, visit http://www.qnet.net.

About QNET

QNET is a global lifestyle and wellness company that uses a direct selling business model to offer a wide selection of exclusive products designed to help people live healthier, more balanced lives. Since 1998, QNET’s innovative products and e-commerce-driven model have helped build a worldwide community of customers and microentrepreneurs, guided by the mission of RYTHM – Raise Yourself To Help Mankind.

QNET is a member of the Direct Selling Association in several countries, the Hong Kong Health Food Association, the Health Supplements Industry Association of Singapore, and more. The company is also a partner in global sports sponsorships, including as the official direct selling partner of Manchester City Football Club and the Confederation of African Football (CAF), underscoring its commitment to excellence and global reach.

Discover more athttp://www.qnet.net.



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Bank of Sierra Leone Cuts Key Interest Rate to 18.75% to Spur Growth


The Bank of Sierra Leone (BSL) has cut its benchmark interest rate by three percentage points, lowering the cost of borrowing for businesses and individuals.

The decision, approved by the BSL Board of Directors on September 24, 2025, lowers the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) to 18.75 percent. The move was recommended by the bank’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) following a meeting on September 23, chaired by Governor Dr. Ibrahim L. Stevens.

The rate reduction is aimed at stimulating private sector investment and comes amid a backdrop of declining inflation and a more stable economic environment.



“The improved domestic macroeconomic conditions are expected to cushion the effects of… global risks,” the central bank stated, justifying the policy shift.

The committee pointed to a significant drop in inflation, which fell to 5.85 percent in August 2025, as a key factor in its decision. This decline was attributed to lower global commodity prices, prudent government policies, and a relatively stable exchange rate.

Furthermore, the economy is projected to grow by 4.5 percent in 2025, driven by improvements in agriculture, services, and mining. The medium-term outlook remains positive, with growth expected to average 4.7 percent in 2026 and 2027.

Other positive indicators cited include a narrowed fiscal deficit, a surplus in the trade balance, and a decline in the government’s borrowing costs, which frees up fiscal space.

Effective September 26, 2025, the new rates are as follows:

  • Monetary Policy Rate (MPR): 18.75%
  • Standing Lending Facility Rate (SLFR): 21.75%
  • Standing Deposit Facility Rate (SDFR): 12.25%

The MPC also urged commercial banks to increase lending to the private sector and called for intensified regulatory oversight to address threats like non-performing loans and cybersecurity risks.

The committee affirmed its commitment to maintaining low inflation and financial stability, stating it will “stand ready to recommend an adjustment of the monetary policy stance should risks to the inflation outlook change.”

The next MPC meeting is scheduled for December 18, 2025.



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Africell Obtain Advertising Space at Times Square in New York


Africell Sierra Leone has become the first company from the West African country to secure an advertising space at the iconic Times Square in New York City.

The Telecommunications company unveiled the news during the 80th session of the United Nations Geeneral Assembly (UNGA), depicting the company’s growing presence in not only the telecommunications realm but other domains. The move has also positioned Africell as a national brand ambassador spotlighting Sierra Leone to the world.

The campaign coincided with the Sierra Leone Innovation Showcase, an event organised by the Ministry of Communication, Technology and Innovation on September 26, 2025. The showcase brought together ministers, development partners, investors, and private sector leaders to discuss strategies for building resilient digital ecosystems capable of driving sustainable development.



Delivering opening remarks, Nicky Spencer-Coker, spokesperson for the Permanent Mission of Sierra Leone to the UN, affirmed the government’s commitment to innovation as a driver for national growth. The event also featured the launch of the Sierra Leone Innovation Investment Fund (SLIIF) by Minister Salima Bah, who described the initiative as a bold tool to support startups and position Sierra Leone within the global digital economy.

Africell’s Chief Executive Officer, Shadi Al-Gerjawi, was a featured voice in the high-level panel, “The Role of the Private Sector in Building a Digital Future.” Speaking alongside leading innovators such as Oswald Osaretin Guobadia of DigitA and Mathias Esmann of AI Education, Al-Gerjawi stressed Africell’s role as more than a service provider. “Africell is not just a telecommunications company—we are a trusted partner in development,” he said. “Our mission is to empower youth, connect communities, and mentor innovators who will drive Sierra Leone’s future.”

The discussions extended beyond telecommunications, with a second panel addressing “Driving Sustainable Development through Digital Transformation.” The session featured several senior government officials, including Attorney-General and Minister of Justice Alpha Sesay, Minister of Education Conrad Sackey, Minister of Information Chernoh Bah, Minister of Youth Affairs Ibrahim Sannoh, Minister of Technical and Higher Education Dr. Haja Ramatulai Wurie, and Minister of Communications Salima Bah. The keynote address was delivered by Chief Minister Dr. David Sengeh, who outlined the government’s vision for inclusive digital transformation anchored in human capital development.

Africell also extended its impact beyond the policy space by hosting a vibrant cultural reception at the Times Square Garden, bringing together Sierra Leoneans in the diaspora and international partners. The First Lady of Sierra Leone, Fatima Maada Bio, graced the occasion with remarks that highlighted the company’s contribution to both community and nation branding.

“I was delighted to join Africell’s cultural evening in New York,” the First Lady said. “It was not just a celebration of our culture but a reminder of the importance of unity and collaboration. Africell continues to play a vital role in projecting Sierra Leone’s image and uplifting our people through innovation and social investment.”

Since entering the Sierra Leonean market in 2005, Africell has grown into one of the country’s most trusted telecom operator, serving millions with affordable mobile, internet, and financial services. Beyond technology, the company has invested in education, entertainment, and environmental programs, employing over 350 skilled staff while setting industry benchmarks in service delivery.

The Times Square campaign and Africell’s prominent role at UNGA represent more than corporate milestones, experts believe that this symbolises Sierra Leone’s determination to embrace digital transformation and present itself as an emerging hub of innovation in Africa.



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Leone Ranks Second Weakest Currency in Africa for September 2025


The Sierra Leonean Leone has been ranked as the second weakest currency in Africa, according to a Forbes currency calculator report for September 2025, underscoring the lingering pressure on Sierra Leone’s economy despite recent signs of easing inflation.

The Forbes currency calculator, which sources real-time foreign exchange market data via the Open Exchange Rates API, updates every five minutes to reflect live trading values.

The system captures the impact of demand and supply, market sentiment, and broader economic conditions on each nation’s currency performance.



According to the data, the São Tomé & Príncipe Dobra (22,282 per $1) topped the list of Africa’s weakest currencies, followed by the Sierra Leonean Leone (20,970), Guinean Franc (8,680), Ugandan Shilling (3,503), and Burundian Franc (2,968). Others on the list include the Congolese Franc (2,811), Tanzanian Shilling (2,465), Malawian Kwacha (1,737), the Nigerian Naira (₦1,490 per $1), and the Rwandan Franc (1,448).

In contrast, the Tunisian Dinar (2.90 per $1), Libyan Dinar (5.40), Moroccan Dirham (9.91), Ghanaian Cedi (12.31), and Botswanan Pula (14.15) were ranked as the five strongest currencies in Africa.

The continent currently has 54 recognised countries, according to the United Nations and geographic data sources.

Meanwhile, Sierraloaded reported that Sierra Leone’s inflation rate showed significant improvement in 2025 with headline inflation dropping to 7.10% in June 2025, down from 7.55% in May 2025. This follows a reported 13.8% in December 2024.

A Consumer Price Index (CPI) report released by Statistics Sierra Leone in June 2025 highlights a 0.26% month-on-month decline in consumer prices, reversing the 0.05% increase observed in May and marking a rare instance of deflation in the national economy.

In response, the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Bank of Sierra Leone (BSL), following its quarterly meeting on July 24, 2025, announced a significant reduction in its key policy rates, effective July 29, 2025.

The move aims to sustain macroeconomic stability, address inflationary pressures, and stimulate private sector credit.

The Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) was reduced by 2 percentage points to 21.75%. Concurrently, the Standing Lending Facility Rate (SLFR)  lowered to 23.75%, and the Standing Deposit Facility Rate (SDFR) to 14.25%. These adjustments were approved by the BSL’s Board of Directors on July 28, 2025.



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