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Orange Sierra Leone Launches 7th Edition of Social Venture Prize to Boost Innovation and Entrepreneurship


Orange Sierra Leone has announced the launch of the 7th edition of the Orange Social Venture Prize (OSVP) in Sierra Leone, coinciding with the 15th edition in Africa and the Middle East. This initiative aims to support social innovation and foster local entrepreneurship within the region.

The competition officially opens for applications today, March 11th, 2025. Applicants from Sierra Leone and the 16 other Orange affiliates in Africa and the Middle East are required to submit their applications for both the National and International competitions. The deadline for applications is May 18th, 2025.

Interested applicants can register and submit their applications at: https://poesam.orange.com/en/



Additional information about the OSVP can be found at: https://www.orange.com/en/osvp

Through this competition, Orange Sierra Leone seeks to contribute to human capital development, support local social and environmental innovations, and encourage entrepreneurship in Sierra Leone.

Since 2019, the OSVP has recognized innovative projects in various fields, including education, healthcare, e-commerce, and agriculture, as well as projects that contribute to achieving sustainable development goals through digital technology.

The competition will be held in two stages:

1. National Stage:

  • Applications for the National and Women’s competitions will be accepted from March 11th to May 18th, 2025.
  • A national pitch competition will be held in August 2025 to award the National and Women’s category winners.
  • The winners will receive the following prizes:
    • NLe 200,000 – National Winner
    • NLe 120,000 – Women’s Winner

2. International Stage:

  • The National and Women’s category winners from each subsidiary in the 17 Orange affiliates will automatically be selected for the international phase.
  • Following evaluation, 10 finalists will be chosen.
  • A final jury of African tech influencers will select the top 3 winners of the OSVP International Grand Prize in October/November 2025.
  • An International Women’s Prize will also be awarded for the fifth consecutive year to a woman offering a technological solution to improve the living conditions of women. This includes solutions focused on women’s independence, job creation or preservation, gender data collection, and digital and financial inclusion.
  • The winners of the international and women’s competition will receive the following prizes:
    • €25,000 for 1st place international winner
    • €15,000 for 2nd place international winner
    • €10,000 for 3rd place international winner
    • €20,000 for Women’s international winner

About Orange Sierra Leone

Orange Sierra Leone is a leading telecommunications operator and service provider in Sierra Leone, licensed by the National Communication Authority. The company is dedicated to meeting the socio-economic needs of the society. Orange Sierra Leone’s strategic objective is to become a responsible Corporate Social Investor and to improve the daily lives of the people in Sierra Leone through responsible and valuable digital experiences.

Orange Middle East and Africa (OMEA)

Orange has a presence in 18 countries across Africa and the Middle East, serving over 143 million customers as of December 31, 2022. With revenues of 6.9 billion euros in 2022, Orange MEA is the Orange group’s leading growth area. Orange Money, its mobile-based money transfer and financial services offering, is available in 17 countries and has more than 80 million customers. As a multi-service operator, Orange is a key partner in the digital transformation, providing expertise to support the development of new digital services in Africa and the Middle East.



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Orange Money Awarded As Leader In Financial Inclusion In Sierra Leone


In February 2025, at the Freetown International Conference Centre in Aberdeen, Orange Money received an impressive recognition at the Western African Bankers awards night as “Leader in Financial Inclusion in Sierra Leone”.

This prestigious award acknowledged the company’s outstanding contributions to enhancing financial access and empowering the underserved population across various regions in Seirra Leone.

The award ceremony was organized by the West African Bankers’ Association to honour key players driving financial innovation and inclusion across the region.



Mr. Joseph Tengbeh, Head of Strategic Partnerships and Marketing at OMFSL, accepted the award on behalf of Orange Money SL and commenting on the award he stated that “the award solidifies Orange Mobile finance’s position as a trail blazer in the sector”.

Orange Money Sierra Leone Chief Executive Officer, David S. Mansaray expressed gratitude for receiving the award and highlighted that “the company is committed to innovation and unmatched customer service and thanked his team and the partnerships that have contributed to the company’s success in reinforcing their vision to boost digital finance”.

He further commented on the importance of financial inclusion and how Orange money continues to empower individuals and businesses through accessible mobile financial services.

Orange money has proven to be a trusted player in guaranteeing reliable and secure access to your money anywhere, anytime, for everyone. With nearly 40 million customers across the African continent, Orange Money continues its commitment to ever more accessible and innovative mobile finance.

Orange Money SL remains at the forefront of mobile money inclusion, playing a pivotal role in enhancing seamless transactions between mobile wallets and banks. Through innovative financial solutions, the company continues to empower individuals and businesses, bridging the gap between traditional banking and digital finance.

Orange money Africa and middle east recently announced opening if its new headquarters in Abidjan, cote d’lvoire. An important milestone demonstrating the groups’ commitment to Africa and to facilitate innovative financial services for all and to contribute to the growth of African financial ecosystem.

A new stage is being prepared….one more step towards you, towards proximity, more impact, and more solutions adapted to your needs.



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QNet Empowers Women Through Financial Literacy, Business And Wellness


QNET, a global wellness and lifestyle-focused direct selling company, joins the United Nations and the world in celebrating International Women’s Day by reaffirming its commitment to empowering women in Ghana and across sub-Saharan Africa.

For years, QNET has supported women through initiatives like FinGreen, its financial literacy program designed to help women and young people take control of their financial future. By providing tailored education and training, FinGreen addresses key financial knowledge gaps, enabling women to make informed decisions. Alongside its direct selling business model and innovative products, QNET aligns with this year’s International Women’s Day theme: #AccelerateAction.

Empowering Women through FinGreen for Ripple Effects



Biram Fall, QNET’s Regional General Manager for sub-Saharan Africa, who is happiest when women get empowered, said: “Our FinGreen programme transforms women into financial champions, empowering them to become informed and confident leaders, a point of reference for families and communities, creating a ripple effect that is sustainable and widespread in their respective social circles. This is in consonance with a popular African saying that when you train and empower a woman, you empower a nation.”

Creating Opportunities for Women through QNET’s Business Model

He reaffirms: “We are accelerating action towards ensuring equal rights, equal opportunities and equal power for women. QNET’s business model ensures that women earn same commission from promoting the company’s wide range of health, wellness, lifestyle, personal care, education, holiday and technology products. The population of women on the African continent according to World Bank Open Data is estimated at 583.2 million, representing about 50.2% of the total population. Direct selling, therefore, offers a great opportunity for these women to thrive by being part of a global market that offers certified and exclusive products that can be sold to earn income and support families.”

Enhancing Quality of Wellbeing and Lifestyle through Innovative QNET Products

QNET, through its wide variety of health and wellness products, is enhancing the quality of life for women. These amazing products include the EDG3 Plus supplement for vitality, the Amezcua e-Guard X for energy balance, Chi-Pendant 4 that provides protection against radiation, Bio-Disc 3 that breaks down water chemicals for easy absorption, ProSpark Toothpaste, which combines effective oral hygiene with unique health benefits, Bernhard H. Mayer’s collection of watches and jewelleries and many more.

QNET’s commitment to women empowerment is not just for a day, it has been for the past 27 years and it is for a lifetime.

About QNET

QNET is a prominent lifestyle and wellness company that uses a direct selling business model to offer a wide selection of exclusive products that enable individuals to embrace a healthier, more balanced life.

Since 1998, QNET’s innovative products and e-commerce-driven business model have helped build a global community of satisfied customers and microentrepreneurs, who are driven by the mission of RYTHM – Raise Yourself To Help Mankind. Popular product brands offered by QNET include the Bernhard H. Mayer range of luxury watches and jewellery, HomePure range of home care products, the Amezcua wellness range, Physio Radiance personal care range, and QVI branded holiday packages.

QNET proudly holds memberships in the Direct Selling Association in several countries, the Hong Kong Health Food Association, the Health Supplements Industry Association of Singapore, and more. QNET is also active in several global sports sponsorships including in its role as the official direct selling partner of the Manchester City Football Club and the Confederation of African Football (CAF), underscoring its commitment to excellence and global reach.  Discover a world of new possibilities with QNET by visiting www.qnet.net

 



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A Landmark Event Empowering Entrepreneurs and Boosting Economic Growth


QNET’s highly anticipated V-Africa 2025, a regional edition of the company’s flagship convention has taken place in Ghana from February 20 to 23, 2025. The Accra International Conference Centre hosted 4000 participants from across the Sub-Saharan Africa region as they experienced four days of empowerment, networking, and innovation.

The convention showcased QNET’s exclusive product offerings, provide immersive entrepreneurship training, and contributed significantly to Ghana’s tourism and economic growth.

Trevor Kuna, Chief Marketing Officer for QNET, expressed his enthusiasm: “Hosting V-Africa 2025 in Ghana is a testament to our commitment to supporting entrepreneurs in Africa. This event isn’t just about showcasing our brand—it’s about empowering individuals to achieve their dreams while contributing meaningfully to local economies.”



Empowering Entrepreneurs, Celebrating Culture

V-Africa featured product workshops, dynamic training sessions on business building and entrepreneurship, and an exhibition displaying QNET’s signature product brands such as Homepure range of home care products, Amezcua’s wellness range, Swiss watch brand Bernhard H. Mayer’s new Collection, and more. Attendees gained invaluable insights into QNET’s ethos of wellness, sustainability, and entrepreneurship, setting the stage for lasting business growth.

Biram Fall, QNET’s Regional General Manager for sub-Saharan Africa, elaborated on the event’s local significance: “V-Africa 2025 has left a lasting legacy by empowering African entrepreneurs from different countries and supporting Ghana’s tourism industry. This is more than a business convention—it’s a platform for connection, growth, and transformation.”

Driving Tourism and Economic Growth

As one of the largest events of its kind, V-Africa 2025 attracted participants from 25 countries, providing a boost to the local hospitality, transportation, and tourism sectors. QNET’s commitment to Africa includes partnering with local stakeholders to ensure the event delivers long-term benefits to the continent.

About QNET

QNET is a prominent lifestyle and wellness company that uses a direct selling business model to offer a wide selection of exclusive products that enable individuals to embrace a healthier, more balanced life.

Since 1998, QNET’s innovative products and e-commerce-driven business model have helped build a global community of satisfied customers and microentrepreneurs, who are driven by the mission of RYTHM – Raise Yourself To Help Mankind. Popular product brands offered by QNET include the Bernhard H. Mayer range of luxury watches and jewellery, HomePure range of home care products, the Amezcua wellness range, Physio Radiance personal care range, and QVI branded holiday packages.

QNET proudly holds memberships in the Direct Selling Association in several countries, the Hong Kong Health Food Association, the Health Supplements Industry Association of Singapore, and more. QNET is also active in several global sports sponsorships including in its role as the official direct selling partner of the Manchester City Football Club and the Confederation of African Football (CAF), underscoring its commitment to excellence and global reach.  Discover a world of new possibilities with QNET by visiting www.qnet.net



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Orange SL Discovers Fraud in Sales and Distribution Operations


Orange Sierra Leone has uncovered a significant case of internal fraud within its sales and distribution network, resulting in substantial revenue losses.

The discovery was made during a recent internal audit, revealing fraudulent activities allegedly carried out by employees.

The company, known for its strict anti-fraud policies, has expressed deep concern over the breach of trust. Orange Sierra Leone reiterated its unwavering commitment to maintaining integrity in all operations and enforcing a zero-tolerance policy against fraud and corruption.



Speaking on the matter, the company’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. Alfie Barrie, assured stakeholders that a full investigation is underway.

“Our focus remains on ensuring a thorough investigation into this matter. The individuals responsible will be held fully accountable for their actions,” Mr. Barrie stated.

He also emphasized that the situation highlights the effectiveness of the company’s internal controls and anti-fraud mechanisms.

“This incident underscores the strength of our robust internal controls and anti-fraud systems. Our commitment to ethical values and our zero-tolerance approach to fraud and corruption guide all of our actions,” he added.

In response to the findings, Orange Sierra Leone has implemented additional measures to tighten security across its sales operations, preventing further unauthorized activities.

“This situation only reinforces our determination to uphold the highest standards of integrity,” Mr. Barrie continued. “Our ethical values remain at the core of everything we do. We are confident that our proactive anti-fraud measures will continue to protect the interests of all our stakeholders moving forward.”

The telecommunications giant reassured its customers, partners, and stakeholders that it is taking the matter seriously and remains committed to ethical conduct and corporate governance.



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Orange Donates Digital Kits to St. Theresa’s Police and Holy Family Schools


In a move to enhance digital education in Sierra Leone, Orange Foundation Sierra Leone, the non-profit arm of Orange Sierra Leone, donated Digital School Kits to two primary schools St. Theresa’s Police School in Bo District and Holy Family Primary School R.C Boys in Pujehun District, the alma mater of His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio. The donations were made on Monday, 10th February, and Tuesday, 11th February 2025, respectively.

Each school received cutting-edge equipment such as tablets, Raspberry Pi devices, laptops, Bluetooth speakers, projectors, screens, headsets, extension cables, power banks, and solar panels. These resources are tailored to enhance digital literacy, providing young pupils with access to digital tools that will revolutionize classroom learning and prepare them for a tech-driven future.

In her remarks at both schools, Finnah Mariama Stevens, Head of Orange Digital Centre, highlighted that the Orange Foundation has been actively involved in various humanitarian efforts, particularly in the education sector. She stated that the donation of digital school kits is a key initiative under the foundation’s education wing.

She emphasized the importance of technological tools in driving innovation and bridging the digital divide. She noted that the foundation has donated similar kits to various schools across the country, stressing that these resources are provided free of charge with the vision of ensuring that every child in Sierra Leone has access to the technological tools necessary for today’s digital world.

Finnah Mariama Stevens also underscored Orange Sierra Leone’s commitment to the government’s human capital development agenda, particularly its focus on empowering young girls through access to digital resources.

She urged the schools to utilize the donation effectively, emphasizing that with the right tools and skills, pupils in Sierra Leone can compete with their peers in other countries in the field of technology in the coming years.

Paramount Chief Prince Lappia Boima IV of Kakua Chiefdom, Bo District addressed residents, highlighting concerns about the frequent cutting of mobile operators’ fiber cables, which often leads to poor network connectivity across the country.

Reflecting on his school days, he noted that such digital learning facilities were unavailable to them at the time. He emphasized that today’s pupils are fortunate to be exposed to digital learning at an early age and commended Orange Sierra Leone for its generous donation.

The Paramount Chief urged parents to prioritize their children’s education, stressing that these donated school kits are meant to benefit the pupils, and if children do not attend school, these resources will go to waste.

John Abu, Resident Minister of the Southern Region, has expressed appreciation to Orange Foundation Sierra Leone for its generous donation of Digital School Kits, describing it as a gateway to digital learning. He encouraged pupils to take full advantage of the opportunity, noting that such resources were unavailable during his own school days.

“As a responsible company, Orange has proven that it is not just focused on making profits but also committed to giving back to society through meaningful investments in education,” he stated.

He emphasized that the initiative aligns with President Bio’s Human Capital Development agenda, which is crucial to transforming the country. He further noted that the donation comes at a critical time when the world is rapidly advancing in digital technology, stressing that Sierra Leone must not be left behind in this revolution.

The Minister concluded by urging the school administration to ensure that the donated digital tools are effectively utilized so that pupils can fully benefit from the enhanced learning experience.

Addressing the gathering in Bo, Sekou Amadou Bah, CEO of Orange Sierra Leone underscored the transformative potential of the Digital School Kits in promoting education and empowering pupils through technology.

“These kits are electronic libraries designed to provide educational content to schools with limited or no internet access,” he noted. “Currently, 16 countries, including Sierra Leone, have benefited from this program, with 1,400 schools and 500,000 pupils gaining access to digital education tools.”

Over the past three years, Orange Sierra Leone has donated 35 Digital School Kits, impacting over 10,000 pupils nationwide. The initiative also offers schools the opportunity to participate in the prestigious Wiki Challenge, an international competition organized by Orange Group.

Bah urged pupils and teachers to handle the equipment with care and fully utilize them to enhance learning. “With technology, we can expand our horizons and enable new ways of easy learning. These tools are not just about access but about empowering young minds to explore and innovate,” he stated.

He reaffirmed Orange Sierra Leone’s commitment to supporting the government’s human capital development agenda through initiatives that align with President Julius Maada Bio’s vision for the country.

Alusine Senessie, School Assistance Officer for MBSSE in Bo District, speaking on behalf of the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE), applauded Orange Sierra Leone for complementing the ministry’s efforts in enhancing digital learning for pupils.

He assured the ministry’s commitment to ensuring the sustainability of the donated kits in various schools. He emphasized that technology is the future, and these digital resources will not only benefit pupils but also support teachers in lesson planning and delivery, ultimately improving learning outcomes in schools.

Hawa Bay Jusu, Head teacher of Holy Family Primary School R.C Boys, expressed deep appreciation for the donation of Digital School Kits by Orange Foundation Sierra Leone, describing it as a historic milestone for the school since its establishment in 1912, emphasized that the arrival of the digital kits marks a turning point in the school’s pursuit of technological advancement.

“We are eager to explore these wonderful digital tools in our school, and our vision has finally come true. This donation has brought us honor, respect, and hope,” she stated.

The Head Teacher assured Orange Foundation and all stakeholders that the Digital School Kits which include tablets, laptops, Raspberry Pi devices, projectors, power banks, and other essential tools would be used for their intended purpose to enhance digital literacy among pupils.

Additionally, she extended gratitude to Her Excellency, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, First Lady of Sierra Leone, for selecting the school as a beneficiary in recognition of it being the alma mater of His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio.

She called on the government and stakeholders to address these concerns to create a safer learning environment for pupils.

Both events concluded with the formal handover of the Digital School Kits to the school administration, symbolizing a new chapter in the pupils’ education journey.



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How RCBank’s SME Scheme Transformed Alhaji’s Electronics and Phone Accessories Business


In today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving business environment, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) play a pivotal role in driving innovation and creating jobs. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by SMEs, our bank introduced the SME Scheme—a comprehensive financial support initiative designed to empower entrepreneurs and help them scale their businesses.

One remarkable success story that stands out is that of Alhaji Bangura, also known as Alhaji Hotcake, an electronics and phone accessories seller who has benefitted from the scheme five times. His journey underscores the transformative power of accessible financial support, especially in an industry where competition is fierce and technology trends are constantly shifting.

When Alhaji first approached our bank for funding, he was operating at a modest scale, facing difficulties in meeting the increasing demand for electronics and phone accessories.

Through the SME Scheme, he received vital funding that allowed him to expand his inventory, upgrade his store infrastructure, and invest in marketing efforts to reach a larger audience. As a result, his sales surged, and he quickly gained traction in a highly competitive market.

The flexibility of the SME Scheme has been pivotal to his ongoing growth. With each subsequent funding round, he has been able to diversify his product offerings, purchase cutting-edge tech accessories, and streamline his operations for greater efficiency.

By leveraging the financial resources provided by the scheme, his business has stayed ahead of emerging market trends and continued to meet customer demands with agility and precision.

Not only has Alhaji Hotcake scaled his operations, but he has also witnessed a marked improvement in cash flow management, enabling him to reinvest in his business. The support provided through the SME Scheme has fueled his business growth and created a ripple effect, strengthening the local economy.

Today, Alhaji Hotcake is no longer just a small local business—he is a thriving player in the electronics and phone accessories market, with a growing customer base and a solid foundation for future growth. His success is a testament to the power of the SME Scheme in transforming businesses, enabling entrepreneurs to reach their full potential and make a lasting impact on the industry.

As RCBank continues to support entrepreneurs like Alhaji, we remain committed to fostering a dynamic and thriving SME ecosystem by providing businesses with the financial tools they need to succeed. This story exemplifies the positive outcomes that can be achieved when small businesses have access to the right resources at the right time.

If you pass by P.Z Roundabout, please patronize Alhaji Hotcake for all your electronics and phone accessories—he’s got you covered.

And always remember that RCBank is The Bank of Choice!



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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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Orange Sierra Leone Honored at Annual Top Employer Certificate Award Ceremony in United Kingdom


In January 2025, Orange Sierra Leone, received the official certificate as TOP EMPLOYER in Sierra Leone at the prestigious ceremony held in the United Kingdom celebrating outstanding employers around the world who have demonstrated excellence in workplace practices and employee engagement.

Top Employers Institute is the global authority on recognizing excellence in People Practices and help to accelerate these practices to enrich the world of work. Through the Top Employers Institute Certification Program, participating companies can be validated, certified, and recognized as an employer of choice.

The event brought together over 500 business leaders from international companies, HR professionals, and local dignitaries to recognize companies that prioritize their workforce’s well-being and development.

The Top Employer Certification is awarded to organizations that excel in areas such as employee satisfaction, diversity and inclusion, career development opportunities, and workplace culture.

The Orange Seirra Leone Human Resource Director, Madam Agnes Songa expressed gratitude, stating, “This recognition reflects our dedication as a company to fostering a supportive and dynamic workplace where our employees can thrive.”

At the ceremony, Agnes Songa joined other HR leaders in celebrating the hard work and dedication that companies put into creating inclusive, innovative, and supportive workplaces and she highlighted during her speech that “it is important to note that OSL is HR practices are based on global standard in many categories”.

This recognition highlights companies that demonstrate outstanding practices in employee engagement, development, and overall work environment, making it a significant achievement for Orange Sierra Leone.

As employers continue to navigate the challenges of the modern workplace, the Top Employer Certificate Award Ceremony reinforces Orange Sierra Leone’s commitment to creating positive work environments that benefit both employees and to continue fostering excellent work culture.



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Sierra Leone’s Instant Payment Service Goes Live


Sierra Leone has officially launched its National Payment Switch, a groundbreaking initiative poised to revolutionize the country’s financial landscape and boost regional economic integration.

The launch ceremony, held at the Radisson Blu Mammy Yoko Hotel on Thursday, February 13, 2025, featured a keynote address by Vice President Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh.

The National Payment Switch enables instant payments between banks and mobile money operators, eliminating the need for traditional methods like checks.

Dr. Ibrahim Stevens, Governor of the Bank of Sierra Leone (BSL), announced at a press briefing earlier in the week that seven banks and two mobile network operators are already connected to the service. He emphasized the system’s potential to streamline transactions and improve efficiency, noting that similar systems are in use in countries like Nigeria.

“This system allows for direct payments from one bank to another or between mobile networks, eliminating the need for cheques and waiting periods,” Dr. Steven explained. He emphasized that the IPS would enhance transaction efficiency, financial security, and transparency, while also supporting digital commerce and innovation.

The National Payment Switch is being rolled out in phases. Phase 1, completed in May 2023, introduced ATM and point-of-sale (POS) interoperability. Phase 2, launched this week, focuses on real-time, interoperable transactions. Phase 3, expected to integrate the system with international payment gateways, will further position Sierra Leone as a key player in global digital finance.

Dr. Steven announced that the Bank of Sierra Leone has set April 1, 2025, as the deadline for full integration of all banks and mobile money operators into the system. He urged financial institutions to embrace the platform, assuring them of the central bank’s commitment to addressing any challenges during the integration process.

VP Jalloh highlighted the transformative potential of the switch, stating it will be crucial for driving economic reform and positioning Sierra Leone as a regional hub for digital financial services. He emphasized its importance for e-government services, including tax and fee payments, and its potential to enhance transparency and accountability in public finance management.

The initiative aligns with Sierra Leone’s commitment to regional financial integration, complementing the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). VP Jalloh expressed optimism that the switch will reduce transaction costs, promote digital trade, and strengthen economic ties across Africa. He urged all financial institutions, businesses, and government agencies to fully integrate the Instant Payment Services into their operations.

Finance Minister Sheku A. F. Bangura stressed the importance of stable economic policies and robust financial infrastructure for regional integration. He called for inclusive policies that drive sustainable growth and pointed to the European Union’s journey to the Eurozone as an example of long-term vision.

World Bank Country Manager Abdu Muwonge commended Sierra Leone for this milestone, drawing parallels with successful implementations in other countries. He emphasized the importance of adoption and urged mobile money providers to maximize transaction volumes through the system. He also highlighted the next phase of financial inclusion, which will focus on providing credit lines for youth and women entrepreneurs.



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