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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CAF and QNET Renew Partnership for the 2025/26 Season of the CAF Interclub Competitions


The Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF) and QNET, a global lifestyle and wellness company, have renewed their partnership for the 2025/2026 CAF Interclub Football Season for the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League, TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup, and the TotalEnergies CAF Super Cup.

The agreement was signed in Casablanca, Morocco, on Monday, 03 November by CAF General Secretary, Véron Mosengo-Omba, and Cherif Bassirou Abdoulayede, Regional General Manager, QNET Sub-Saharan Africa.

As part of the renewed agreement, CAF and QNET will expand fan engagement and community-driven programmes that link the excitement of elite football with grassroots development, strengthening the foundations of the sport and ensuring its sustainable growth across Africa.

QNET has been an Official Sponsor of CAF’s Club competitions, including the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League, TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup and the TotalEnergies CAF Super Cup, since 2018.

CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe said “The 2025/26 edition of the CAF Interclub has seen record numbers of Clubs participating in the Preliminary stages of the Competitions. This is mainly thanks to the invesment by CAF in TotalEnergies CAF Interclub Competitions including the USD 13 million to the Clubs to assist logistics and other operational matters. We are delighted to welcome QNET as a partner in driving this development.”

Trevor Kuna, Chief responsible for Sponsorships, QNET added: “This partnership is a celebration of African talent and ambition. Through football, we are inspiring communities, nurturing potential, and shaping a future full of opportunity and promise across the continent.”

As CAF and QNET continue their journey together, they invite fans, communities, and businesses across Africa and beyond to join in celebrating the spirit of African football, a legacy built on unity, opportunity, and excellence for generations to come.




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Afrimoney and Ecobank Launch Sierra Leone’s First Mobile Money POS Payment System


Afrimoney and Ecobank Sierra Leone have launched a strategic partnership that enables customers to make payments directly from their Afrimoney mobile wallets on Ecobank Point-of-Sale (POS) terminals.

The historic initiative was officially unveiled at Ecobank’s Head Office in Freetown.

This innovation marks the first time in Sierra Leone that mobile money users can make direct payments on POS devices an advancement expected to greatly enhance digital financial accessibility for both consumers and merchants nationwide.

Kate Thompson, Head of Consumer Banking at Ecobank Sierra Leone, described the partnership as a “significant milestone” in connecting banking and mobile money ecosystems.

She explained that while only about 29% of Sierra Leoneans have bank accounts, around 30% use mobile money wallets two customer bases that are now linked through this collaboration. “Before this innovation, only cardholders could use POS machines. Now, Afrimoney wallet holders can make payments instantly and securely on Ecobank POS devices, without needing a bank account,” Thompson stated. She added that the initiative simplifies everyday transactions from school fees to market purchases empowering merchants and customers alike.

Calling the development “financial inclusion in its purest form,” Thompson noted that the new service will help bridge the gap between the formal banking sector and mobile money users, making digital transactions more convenient and accessible.

Afrimoney CEO, Martison Obeng-Agyei, praised the collaboration as a “forward-looking example of technology serving the public,” highlighting that it is the first of its kind in Sierra Leone’s financial landscape. He revealed that the next phase of the partnership will extend the service to Ecobank ATMs, allowing customers to withdraw cash directly from their Afrimoney wallets.

“This initiative simplifies payments, ensures instant settlements, and enhances business efficiency,” Obeng-Agyei said. “Once a payment is made on an Ecobank POS, the funds are instantly available in the merchant’s bank account eliminating the hassle of cashing out or re-depositing money.” He added that the system was developed with long-term reliability and quality in mind, signaling more innovations ahead in 2026.

Ecobank Sierra Leone Managing Director, Sebastian Ashong Katai, described the partnership as a deliberate strategy rooted in collaboration rather than competition. He said Afrimoney’s robust technology and extensive subscriber base made it an ideal partner for achieving shared financial inclusion goals. “Convenience and accessibility are the true measures of banking success,” Katai noted. “Money alone doesn’t create access unless people have the freedom to use it. By enabling mobile wallet payments on POS devices, we’re expanding that freedom and empowering Sierra Leoneans to transact anywhere.”

He further linked the initiative to the Bank of Sierra Leone’s National Payment Switch, emphasizing that progress in the financial sector depends on collaboration and interoperability among players.

The Afrimoney Ecobank partnership stands as a major step toward bridging traditional banking and mobile money ecosystems. It offers Sierra Leoneans a secure, convenient, and inclusive way to conduct transactions supporting the Central Bank’s vision of a digitally connected and financially empowered nation.

With this launch, customers can now use their Afrimoney wallets across Ecobank’s nationwide POS network ushering in a new era of digital convenience and financial empowerment for businesses and consumers across Sierra Leone.




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Sierra Leone Urged to Tap Dimension Stone Industry as Global Market Climbs US$7.02 Billion by 2026


Stakeholders in Sierra Leone’s extractive sector have called for greater attention to the country’s dimension stone resources, amid projections that the global market will rise from about US$5.74 billion in 2023 to US$7.02 billion by 2026.

Long-term estimates suggest the industry could reach US$20 billion, driven by increasing demand for construction and modern infrastructure.

Dimension stones, which include natural rocks such as granite, marble, limestone, and sandstone cut into blocks or slabs, are widely used in roads, ports, railways, and housing projects.

Despite their durability and strong market value, the materials remain significantly underutilised in Sierra Leone when compared with diamonds, gold, and bauxite.

These issues were highlighted during a Civic Engagement Forum convened by the African Centre for Climate Change on “Strengthening Accountability and Transparency in Sierra Leone’s Extractive Sector: Empowering Civil Society to Leverage Public Contract Disclosures for Monitoring and Illicit Financial Flows (IFFs) Reduction.”

The event focused on the economic potential of dimension stones and the need for stronger governance in the sector.

Speaking at the forum, Engineer Hadji Dabo, Director General of the National Minerals Agency (NMA), said the dimension stone industry holds significant promise but faces serious challenges. He pointed to child labour, unsafe artisanal mining, gender inequality, and widespread non-compliance as ongoing concerns.

“Many companies secure quarry licenses but later exploit dimension stones illegally,” Dabo warned, noting that weak oversight has led to revenue losses and environmental damage.

He recalled previous government bans on timber harvesting and stone extraction but said these measures failed to ensure long-term regulatory control. “The seriousness of the issue has compelled the government to establish an institution dedicated to supervising extraction and exportation to enhance transparency,” he said.

Dr. Charles G. Ofori, Policy Lead for Climate Change and Energy Transition at the Africa Centre for Energy Policy (ACEP), urged Sierra Leone not to overlook minerals classified as “small” or of lower commercial value.

“With accurate data we can calculate royalties, reduce leakages, and strengthen accountability. If Sierra Leone takes dimension-stone extraction seriously, it could contribute significantly to GDP,” he stressed.

Participants concluded the discussions with calls for stronger regulatory frameworks, accessible data, and effective taxation. They agreed that if managed responsibly, dimension stones could become a key driver of Sierra Leone’s economic growth and an important addition to the country’s broader extractive portfolio.




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Sierra Bottling Group Acquires Majority Shares in Sierra Leone Brewery Limited


Sierra Leone Brewery Limited (SLBL) has announced the completion of a major milestone in its business development with the acquisition of 98.07% majority shareholding by Sierra Bottling Group (SBG).

The acquisition notably marks a bold step towards strengthening the brewery’s long-term sustainability and modernizing its operations.

The transition, which officially took effect on December 1, 2025, sets the stage for a renewed focus on innovation, improved product quality, and expanded contribution to Sierra Leone’s industrial output.

In a statement released by the company, SBG emphasized its commitment to enhancing operations, boosting local development, and driving economic growth within the country.

“We are pleased to announce that Sierra Bottling Group has completed the acquisition of a 98.07% majority shareholding of Sierra Leone Brewery Limited,” the statement reads. “This milestone marks a bold step toward strengthening our long-term sustainability, modernizing our operations, and expanding our contribution to the growth of the industrial output of Sierra Leone.”

With the new leadership in place, SBG has already begun implementing full operational control, ensuring the brewery’s continued growth and enhanced focus on innovation and community impact.

As part of the transition, SBG has integrated new systems, reinforced organizational structures, and placed renewed emphasis on employee growth.

“Our commitment remains the same: delivering quality products, supporting local development, and investing in the future of Sierra Leone,” the statement continued, reaffirming the company’s focus on maintaining high standards for both product quality and community engagement.

The management of SBG expressed confidence that the acquisition will open doors for new possibilities, not only for Sierra Leone Brewery but also for its employees, partners, and loyal consumers.




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Union Trust Bank Shareholders Challenges Bank of Sierra Leone Over RCBank Takeover


Shareholders of Union Trust Bank (UTB) have formally petitioned the Bank of Sierra Leone (BSL), requesting an immediate suspension of the central bank’s decision to place UTB under a caretaker management and approve Rokel Commercial Bank (RCB) as its acquirer.

The petition, filed by ACE Legal Partners on behalf of major UTB shareholders and consultant Dr. Jonathan Bangura, alleges significant statutory and constitutional violations in the process that led to the decision.

The petition was submitted in response to BSL’s public notice on December 8, 2025, which declared that UTB would be placed under caretaker management and that RCB would take over the bank.

According to the petitioners, the central bank’s actions contravene the Banking Act, 2019, particularly Section 69, which mandates a 45-day period for UTB to submit a capital restoration plan. They claim that BSL shortened this statutory period to just 30 days, disregarding the required timeframe.

In the petition, which is addressed to the Governor of the Bank of Sierra Leone, the shareholders argue that BSL’s letter of November 14, 2025, directed UTB to submit its capital restoration plan within 30 days. However, they assert that this period was inadequate, as it fell short of the 45 days required under the Banking Act.

The petition also highlights that the central bank failed to honor even the shortened 30-day period. According to the petitioners, the letter, received on November 18, 2025, set a deadline of December 18, 2025, for the submission. However, the resolution date in the BSL’s public notice was approximately 20 days later, in violation of both statutory and constitutional principles.

The petitioners claim that this deviation from the Banking Act not only constitutes a statutory breach but also amounts to a constitutional illegality. Citing Section 105 and Section 171(15) of the Sierra Leone Constitution, they argue that any law inconsistent with the constitution is void and of no effect. As such, the petitioners contend that BSL’s actions, which diverged from the Banking Act, are unconstitutional.

ACE Legal Partners, representing the shareholders, state that they act on behalf of several prominent UTB stakeholders, including Messrs. Sabanor Trust Investment Fund, Aureol Insurance Company, Mr. Mohamed Kwanza, Mr. Yayah Nesser, Ms. Yema Woobay, and Mr. Wusu B. Koroma. Additionally, they represent Dr. Jonathan Bangura, UTB’s consultant and the individual entrusted by the late founder and CEO of UTB, Mr. Sanpha Koroma, to oversee the bank’s succession and fiduciary transition.

The petitioners have outlined three primary requests in their letter to the Bank Governor. First, they call for an immediate suspension of the BSL’s December 8 public notice, asking that all receivership, resolution, and acquisition processes be put on hold pending a transparent and good-faith review.

Second, they demand an urgent meeting involving Dr. Bangura, key UTB stakeholders, the Director of Banking Supervision, and other senior BSL officials to engage substantively on the proposed roadmap for the bank’s future. Finally, they seek approval from the central bank to proceed with UTB’s recapitalization and restructuring plan, which they assert should be carried out under BSL’s direct supervisory oversight.

In support of their position, the petitioners reference several provisions of the Banking Act, 2019, including Sections 116(1), 59, 66, 67, and 69. They also invoke constitutional principles of “fair administrative actions” and common law doctrines such as “legality, reasonableness, proportionality, and procedural fairness.”

The petitioners have expressed their hope that the Bank Governor will give “kind consideration” to their requests and allow for a swift and transparent review of their proposed recapitalization plan under the supervision of BSL. As of the time of writing, the Bank of Sierra Leone has not publicly responded to the petition.

The petitioners argue that the statutory instruments regulating public entities, such as the Bank of Sierra Leone, have quasi-constitutional effect, as they define the scope of executive discretion. They conclude that any deviation from the Banking Act would constitute not just a statutory breach, but a constitutional illegality, with far-reaching consequences for the integrity of the country’s financial system.




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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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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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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 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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