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Rokel Commercial Bank Bids Farewell to Outgoing Board Chairman Buffy Bailor After Six Years of Transformative Leadership


Rokel Commercial Bank (RCBank) hosted a grand farewell ceremony on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, to honor its outgoing Board Chairman, Mr. Buffy Bailor, who served from 2018 to 2024.

The event brought together key stakeholders from Sierra Leone’s financial sector, including the Governor of the Bank of Sierra Leone, representatives from the Ministry of Finance, and senior management staff of RCBank, to celebrate Mr. Bailor’s remarkable contributions to the bank’s growth and transformation.

Welcoming guests, Head of Public Relations, Aruna Dumbuya, stated that the farewell was organized to recognize Mr. Bailor’s tremendous work and unwavering commitment during his six-year tenure.

Joining virtually from abroad, Board Member Marcella Jones highlighted the significant professional transformation and unique cooperation fostered under Mr. Bailor’s leadership. She described his legacy as indelible, emphasizing his role in steering the bank through key transitions and innovations.

Representing minority shareholders, Mrs. Margaret Bernard Jones acknowledged the inevitability of the transition due to bank policy. Drawing a symbolic reference, she compared Mr. Bailor’s six years of service to the six days of creation, expressing that it was time for him to rest after his dedicated efforts on behalf of shareholders.

Bank Governor Dr. Ibrahim Stevens praised Mr. Bailor’s contributions to both RCBank and the broader financial sector, wishing him success in future endeavors. Deputy Managing Director Emmanuel Borbor echoed similar sentiments, crediting Mr. Bailor’s leadership for the bank’s increased profitability and well-structured board. He noted that Mr. Bailor’s successor would inherit a strong foundation built on professionalism and strategic foresight.

 

Managing Director Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin delivered an emotional tribute, describing Mr. Bailor as an outstanding and remarkable leader whose charisma, intellect, and forward-thinking mindset left an indelible mark on the bank. He lauded Mr. Bailor’s ability to lead not just through words but through decisive actions that propelled RCBank to new heights.

Dr. Gilpin highlighted the numerous challenges they faced together, particularly during the bank’s digital transformation journey. “There were formidable challenges, but Mr. Bailor never relented. His favorite phrase, ‘Let go and let God,’ became a mantra that kept us going even in the most trying times,” he recalled.

 

He further emphasized Mr. Bailor’s unwavering belief in progress and excellence, stating, “No matter how difficult things got, Mr. Bailor believed that as long as we kept moving forward, success was inevitable. His leadership ensured that we didn’t just aim to be among the top three banks, but to be among the top two, always striving for the best.”

Dr. Gilpin acknowledged Mr. Bailor’s pivotal role in embracing digital banking, navigating regulatory policies from the Central Bank, and ensuring that RCBank remained resilient amidst financial uncertainties. He praised Mr. Bailor’s insistence on respect, diligence, and service delivery as the core values that drove the bank’s achievements.

Reflecting on the implementation of major projects like the change of currency and digital banking platforms, Dr. Gilpin noted, “Mr. Bailor always supported forward-looking initiatives. His touch of gold ensured that every project we undertook was executed with precision and excellence. Today, RCBank stands tall because we had a chairman who believed in what he was doing and never got discouraged.”

In his farewell speech, Mr. Buffy Bailor was visibly moved, admitting that he was short of words at such a solemn moment. Reflecting on his journey, he revealed that he initially hesitated to accept the chairmanship, as he was focused on other pursuits. However, after consultations with key stakeholders and his wife, he accepted the challenge, determined to turn around the fortunes of RCBank, which was in a precarious state at the time.

“When I took over, RCBank was struggling. My first task was to identify the core issues and find ways to move forward together. It wasn’t easy, but with a dedicated team, we managed to transform the bank,” Mr. Bailor stated.

He expressed deep attachment to the bank, describing it as a family he was leaving behind. As a chartered accountant, he recounted how he leveraged his network to bring numerous customers and businesses to RCBank. Highlighting key achievements, he disclosed, “During the Afreximbank regional meeting, we successfully negotiated a $10 million regional loan and a $25 million trade finance facility, which will be available to the bank after completing necessary processes. I urge the management to ensure these facilities are fully realized.”

Mr. Bailor emphasized that RCBank has the potential to become Sierra Leone’s biggest bank, given its current resources and human capital. “My prayer is that whoever takes over will build on this foundation and make the bank twice or even three times better,” he said, encouraging staff to believe in their abilities and continue their hard work.

He also urged the government to consider appointing board members with fewer external engagements to ensure active participation in the bank’s governance. Presenting a comprehensive handover note to President Julius Maada Bio, Mr. Bailor detailed the bank’s successes and challenges, offering valuable insights for his successor.

“A good captain must navigate rough seas to prove their worth. I believe we have navigated those rough seas well, and I am proud of what we have achieved together,” he concluded, expressing gratitude to the President, Parliament, the Managing Director, Deputy Managing Director, board members, staff, and all stakeholders who supported him during his tenure.

The event concluded with the presentation of gifts from senior and junior management staff to Mr. Bailor. Mrs. Bailor, speaking on behalf of her husband, thanked everyone for their support, expressing hope that their bond with RCBank would remain strong.

Mr. Bailor’s departure marks the end of a transformative era for Rokel Commercial Bank, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, innovation, and growth.



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Rokel Commercial Bank’s Sim Korpor Unit Introduces EDSA Token Vending Service


Rokel Commercial Bank (RCBank) has announced a new initiative to enhance the accessibility and convenience of purchasing electricity tokens through its Sim Korpor Mobile & Online Banking platform.

In an official communication, Kezia Salankole, Head of the Simkorpor Unit at RCBank, informed team members about the availability of EDSA token vending as a key feature on the platform.

The initiative aims to promote the bank’s digital services while offering customers a seamless way to purchase their monthly electricity tokens directly through Sim Korpor.

To facilitate the process, customers are required to provide the following details:

Name

Meter Number

Account Number

Desired Amount

The bank has also extended the service to allow branch-wide monthly purchases, enabling multiple users within an organization to streamline their electricity payments.

Customers and institutions interested in utilizing this service are encouraged to submit their details to the Sim Korpor Unit to get started by contacting +23278222501 or +23277222501



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Special New Year Message from the Senior Staff Association of Rokel Commercial Bank


As Sierra Leone ushers in 2025, the Senior Staff Association (SSA) of Rokel Commercial Bank has delivered a heartfelt New Year message, extending appreciation and hope for the year ahead.

In their statement, the SSA commended the exemplary leadership of the bank’s Managing Director, Dr. Walton Gilpin COOR, whose visionary guidance has elevated Rokel Commercial Bank to a prominent position within Sierra Leone’s banking sector. They highlighted his dynamic approach as instrumental in achieving remarkable milestones over the past year.

The SSA also expressed gratitude to the Board of Directors, management, staff, and the bank’s loyal customers for their unwavering support and dedication, which have collectively contributed to the institution’s success.



Looking forward to 2025, the association emphasized its commitment to fostering growth, collaboration, and continued excellence within the bank and the broader financial sector.

Concluding the message, the SSA wished everyone a prosperous and successful New Year filled with opportunities and achievements.

HAPPY New Year to all from the Senior Staff Association of Rokel Commercial Bank!



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Rokel Commercial Bank Launches Partnership with Vult by Metro Cable to Revolutionize Financial Inclusion in Sierra Leone


On Monday, December 9, 2024, Rokel Commercial Bank officially launched its partnership with Vult by Metro Cable, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at transforming financial inclusion in Sierra Leone.

The ceremony, attended by senior management teams from Rokel Commercial Bank and Vult, marked a significant step in advancing digital banking solutions and expanding access to financial services across the country.



 

Providing insight into Vult’s operations and its role in promoting digital financial inclusion, Abdul Salam Kallon, Head of Compliance at Vult, explained that the Metro e-wallet is a payment platform under the Bank of Sierra Leone’s Sandbox Program. He noted that the initiative integrates Vult with digital wallets, offering users access to wallet services, cards, and payment systems for various needs.

He highlighted that the Vult app is available for download on Google Play Store, allowing users to sign up easily using their phone numbers and email addresses. “Since it operates online, the platform is equipped with strict security features to ensure user safety,” he said.

Kallon emphasized the platform’s versatility, stating that Vult enables users to receive money locally and internationally, conduct cross-border transactions, and make payments for goods across international borders. “It functions much like opening a bank account, and our cards can be used at Rokel Commercial Bank ATMs and POS machines both within and outside Sierra Leone,” he explained.

He concluded by reiterating that the primary goal of the partnership with Rokel Commercial Bank is to enhance financial inclusion and make digital financial services more accessible.

Vult’s Chief Operating Officer, Pierre Johnson, provided updates on the platform’s progress and achievements. He noted that within just six months of operation, the app has been downloaded by 200,000 users, with 13,000 active accounts and 2,500 cards issued.

Johnson also mentioned the establishment of over 30 merchant locations in Freetown, Bo, and Makeni, reflecting the platform’s growing reach. Additionally, he disclosed a partnership with Mastercard and Money-Me to facilitate seamless transfers to mobile money accounts.

Dr. Walton Gilpin, Managing Director and CEO of Rokel Commercial Bank, highlighted the transformative impact of the partnership in advancing digital banking and financial inclusion.

“We have been working on this initiative for some time, and our partnership with Vult has significantly widened our reach and improved financial accessibility,” he said. Dr. Gilpin added that digital banking has enhanced transaction speed and efficiency, while also supporting macroeconomic growth.

He noted that the platform allows users to access quality materials and services digitally, contributing to greater convenience. “This partnership expands product possibilities, and our goal is to position Sierra Leone as a hub for excellent digital banking services,” Dr. Gilpin emphasized.

David Pakima, Founder and CEO of Vult, expressed gratitude to Rokel Commercial Bank’s management, particularly Dr. Gilpin, for supporting the initiative from its inception.

Pakima explained that Vult originated from the success of their metro cable project, which made Freetown one of the most connected cities in Africa. “We realized that many users lacked access to premium versions of various platforms, and this inspired us to develop Vult to empower communities and enhance their digital experiences,” he said.

He described Rokel as the ideal partner, noting that their shared vision has driven the initiative forward. “Rokel brings the right appetite, and Vult contributes the intensity to make this partnership successful,” Pakima remarked.

He revealed that Vult has been the most downloaded app in the region on Google Play for the past three months and announced plans to expand into three new markets next year. “This partnership will enable thousands of unbanked Vult users to open accounts with Rokel Commercial Bank,” he added.

Pakima concluded by thanking the teams at Rokel and Vult for their collective efforts in ensuring the initiative’s success. “Together, we are providing seamless access to digital financial inclusion,” he said.



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Rokel Commercial Bank Extends Support to University of Makeni After Hostel Fire


Responding to the devastating fire that ravaged the Female Hostel at the University of Makeni on the evening of April 15, 2024, Rokel Commercial Bank’s Management, led by Dr. Gilpin, has taken swift action to support the affected victims.

Under the guidance of Mr. Abubakarr Bah, Manager of the RCBank Makeni Branch, a team from Rokel Commercial Bank visited the university campus to offer assistance. The bank’s efforts included providing counseling services and immediate relief items such as foodstuff and cleaning supplies.

According to reports received by Rokel Commercial Bank’s PR Unit, the fire caused significant damage to properties within the hostel. However, there have been no reported casualties, offering a glimmer of relief amidst the tragedy.



The proactive response from Rokel Commercial Bank underscores its commitment to the community and its values of support and solidarity during challenging times.

As the affected individuals begin to rebuild their lives, the bank’s support serves as a beacon of hope and assistance in their recovery efforts.



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Rokel Commercial Bank Extends Support to University of Makeni After Hostel Fire


Responding to the devastating fire that ravaged the Female Hostel at the University of Makeni on the evening of April 15, 2024, Rokel Commercial Bank’s Management, led by Dr. Gilpin, has taken swift action to support the affected victims.

Under the guidance of Mr. Abubakarr Bah, Manager of the RCBank Makeni Branch, a team from Rokel Commercial Bank visited the university campus to offer assistance. The bank’s efforts included providing counseling services and immediate relief items such as foodstuff and cleaning supplies.

According to reports received by Rokel Commercial Bank’s PR Unit, the fire caused significant damage to properties within the hostel. However, there have been no reported casualties, offering a glimmer of relief amidst the tragedy.



The proactive response from Rokel Commercial Bank underscores its commitment to the community and its values of support and solidarity during challenging times.

As the affected individuals begin to rebuild their lives, the bank’s support serves as a beacon of hope and assistance in their recovery efforts.





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Rokel Commercial Bank Outlines Vision For 2024


Following his recognition as African Banker of the Year in December last year by the UK based Reputation Poll International, the Managing Director of Rokel Commercial Bank has on Friday, 9th February 2024 called a press conference to reveal a five point manifesto that spells out an ambitious 2024 vision for the bank.

The RCbank manifesto, according to Dr Gilpln would be anchored on the digitalization programme which has been the hallmark of the bank’s repositioning and rapid transformation over the years.

The five key priority areas brilliantly by the Managing Director include a Cashless Ecosystem, Banking Process Automation, Cybersecurity Ressilience, Digital Transformation and Artificial Intelligence. The Managing Director however maintained that, rolling out such an ambitious project require a lot of expertise. To this end, he reassured pressmen that the bank would be providing capacity building programmes for its current crop of personnel as he urged young Sierra Leoneans to pursue professional disciplines that are available in today’s market.



Gilpin also believe that a robust and resilient financial system will help change negative perceptions about Sierra Leone, adding that the Rokel Commercial Bank is rightfully earning its position as a local bank with a global reach. The bank, he said has developed products that can allow customers access financial services from any part of the globe.

He also informed the media that the bank will be hosting a seminar on cybersecurity later this month and this will include experts from the UK who will help enrich the knowledge base of Sierra Leoneans on the subject. “Cybersecurity has become a global concern and it is important that we put more premium on it to protect our financial system” he averred.

Dr Walton Gilpin concluded by assuring journalists that the bank remains committed to its corporate social responsibility programmes in education, sports, the environment and other areas of philanthropy.



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Rokel Commercial Bank Takes to the Streets in Digital Awareness Parade


In a vibrant display of technological prowess, Rokel Commercial Bank (RCB), Sierra Leone’s premier banking institution, orchestrated a lively floating parade on Saturday, February 10, 2024.

The parade, stretching from the up-gun turn table to the bank’s headquarters on Siaka Stevens Street in Freetown, aimed to sensitize the public about the bank’s digital products and their myriad benefits to customers.

The well-attended event saw a convergence of senior and junior bank staff, accompanied by a multitude of media personnel, navigating the streets of Freetown to disseminate information on RCB’s digital offerings. The parade was adorned with the sounds of Sierra Leonean music and the lively bubu dance, providing entertainment for both staff and onlookers while effectively conveying the bank’s message.



In a Brief statement Dr. Walton Gilpin, Managing Director of RCB, expressed enthusiasm about the event, stating, “This is the beginning of more things to come. The float is also a way of celebrating the banking sector and educating customers and the public about banking in a new and unique way.” Gilpin emphasized that the massive float parade served as a comprehensive awareness initiative for everyone to acquaint themselves with the bank.

Dr.Gilpin highlighted the bank’s commitment to digitalization, showcasing initiatives such as ATM cardless transactions, issuance of Visa Prepaid Cards, and the integration of services like SIMKorpor and EKorpor. These advancements, he noted, streamline tasks, enhance efficiency, reduce errors, and expedite processing times.

Expressing gratitude to the dedicated staff, Gilpin assured that RCB would extend its sensitization efforts nationwide, ensuring every Sierra Leonean gains a comprehensive understanding of digital banking, cybersecurity, and the benefits of going cashless.

Director of Credit Risk Management, Mrs. Milicent Cole, added that the mass marketing campaign aimed to provide insight into the bank’s digital systems and products. She affirmed that RCB’s outreach wouldn’t be confined to Freetown, as the bank plans to traverse the provinces, ensuring customers across the nation are well-informed.

Mrs. Cole hinted at future interactive activities, including Fun Days and sporting events for staff at RCB’s beach house in Goderich. Additionally, she revealed the bank’s commitment to promoting agriculture and other critical human capital development initiatives.

As Rokel Commercial Bank takes strides in digitization, their dynamic approach to public awareness underscores their dedication to embracing the digital era and ensuring every citizen is equipped with the knowledge to navigate the evolving landscape of modern banking.



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Rokel Commercial Bank Staff Clinch Multiple Wins in Single Awards Ceremony


In this year’s Diaspora FOCUS dinner and award night hosted at the prestigious Bintimani Hotel on the 19th December 2023, the leaders of the organization recognized institutions, other sectors and key personalities who are working tirelessly with unwavering commitment and are contributing positively to the development and growth of Sierra Leone as a nation.

The DiasporaFOCUS award is a National Annual Award conducted at the end of every year through a rigorous and transparent process to applaud and encourage individuals, institutions and other sectors to do more in their areas of specialization. The decision to be nominated as an awardee is certified by the committee of ethics and standardization of the organization to enhance equity and reduce familiarity threat.

On the 12th edition of the DiasporaFOCUS National Development Awards Night, the Managing Director & CEO Dr. Walton E. Gilpin and three staff garnered five awards including the Bank of the Year award 2023.



The eligible awardees were:
1. Dr. Ekundayo W. Gilpin – Managing Director of the Year
2. Mrs. Mariama Jajua – Exceptional Award for Community Development
3. Mr. Lithin Nasani – I.T GURU of the Year
4. Mr. Aruna Dumbuya – Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Year

The Bank of the year award emanated not only from the ethics and standardization committee but also from the decisive reached of the legitimate vote casted from the general public.

The prestigious honor awarded by DiasporaFOCUS is a reflection of the Bank’s outstanding reputation and its consistent efforts in providing outstanding banking services to its customers. With a strong focus on customer centricity and innovation, Rokel Commercial Bank has emerged as a trusted name in the financial space.

As one of Sierra Leone’s top financial institutions, Rokel Commercial Bank has played a essential role in driving economic growth and development in the country.

This accolade serves as a testament to Rokel Commercial Bank’s untiring commitment to excellence and its significant contributions to the financial sector.
Dr. Gilpin and awarded staff dedicated their awards to the bank and applaud staff of the RCBank for their various contributions and support that led them to be nominated by DiasporaFOCUS in the 12th Edition of the 2023 dinner and awards ceremony.

In Dr. Gilpin’s short statement of appreciation, he referenced the vision of His Excellency the President of the Republic of Sierra Leone Rtd. Brig. Dr. Julius Maada Bio, the Board, Management and Staff of Rokel Commercial Bank (RCBank) and thanked Dr. Emmanuel J.M Stafford and the leadership Team of DiasporaFOCUS for their continued quest to distinguish hard working Sierra Leoneans and other National working in the country.
RCBank – The Bank of Choice!!!



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Rokel Commercial Bank’s Christmas and End of Year Message


As we come to the end of another eventful year, we will first celebrate Christmas to remember the birth of our lord and savior, Jesus’s Christ and then the ushering in of a brand new year.

For Christians around the world, Christmas is a reinforcement of our faith through the birth of Jesus Christ and a time for joyful celebration for unto us, a king was born, it has remained one of the most significant events in the Christian Calendar. For non-Christians, Christmas is a celebration of love, kindness and sharing.

As we say thanks for your remarkable support this year, we remain committed to our core values of maintaining lasting and satisfying relationships with our customers, employees, shareholders and the communities we operate.



By touching the lives of people in these communities, we can make them feel more inclined to do account openings and carry out other financial transactions through the bank. They can also see the bank as a partner in development and business.
As we thrust forward with increased profit and pay dividend to our shareholders, we improve our services to lead the banking sector and become a key player in the financial sector.

Some of our impressive highlights this year were the invitation to participate in important international events such as Intra Africa Trade Fair in Cairo, Egypt. The Trade Fair, one of the biggest in the world is a potential gateway for trade liberalization in the continent. In these events, RCBank leveraged on new and existing trade relations and networking opportunities for increased brand building.

With immense pride, we celebrate our astute Managing Director Dr. Ekundayo W. Gilpin (COOR) who is recognized with the prestigious award of “African Banker of the Year” by the UK based Reputation Poll International in December, 2023. Our support towards environmental protection has also not gone unnoticed with two prestigious awards from Shout Climate Change and we are the cover story in the UK Based Diaspora Focus Magazine 2023.

We have become significantly modernized and highly and highly securitized to make your banking the most pleasant experience. Today, our customers have the feel-good factor of sitting in the comfort of their homes to carry out banking transactions of all kinds. All this is made possible through the support you have given us since we launched an ambitious program to transform Rokel Commercial Bank from a loss making to a profit making as well as forward looking institution. Yes, our appetite to expand is insatiable! We have opened new branches, launched state of the art electronic banking products and services.

In this Christmas and the coming new year, we wish you more happiness and prosperity as we work together to remain your dependable bank, your own Kombra Bank of Choice!!!



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