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British International Investment Boosts Private Sector Growth in Sierra Leone With Ecobank Partnership


The United Kingdom Government, through its development finance institution, British International Investment (BII) has announced a $25 million risk-sharing facility with Ecobank Sierra Leone to stimulate private sector growth in high-impact sectors of the economy.

The facility, which includes a comprehensive technical assistance program, will support Ecobank in increasing lending to ambitious businesses in this frontier market.

The private sector plays a crucial role in Sierra Leone’s economy, primarily through small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that employ around 70% of the population. However, these businesses often struggle to access capital due to various factors, including limited financial products, high collateral requirements, and short-term loan tenors.



The new facility will support local currency lending, demonstrating BII’s ability to act as a first mover in frontier markets. By increasing credit limits and extending loan tenors, the investment will help Ecobank Sierra Leone grow its loan book and boost business growth, job creation, and private sector contribution to the economy.

This transaction marks a significant milestone as the first investment under the Africa Resilience Investment Accelerator (ARIA), a collaborative initiative launched by BII and FMO, the Dutch entrepreneurial development bank. ARIA aims to boost investment in frontier markets like Sierra Leone.

The Sierra Leone economy faces challenges including a depreciating currency, a large trade deficit, and insufficient infrastructure investment. BII’s investment targets critical sectors such as renewable energy, agriculture, agro-processing, infrastructure, and manufacturing to spur economic growth and development.

UK Minister for Development, Anneliese Dodds, expressed her delight at the partnership, stating that it will support local currency lending, bring much-needed capital into high-impact sectors, and contribute to job creation and economic growth.

Samir Abhyankar, MD and Head of Financial Services at BII, highlighted the facility’s potential to be a game-changer for Sierra Leone, providing much-needed capital for local businesses to accelerate their growth, spur job creation, and deepen impact.

Sebastian Ashong-Katai, Managing Director of Ecobank Sierra Leone, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, emphasizing its importance in boosting Ecobank’s lending capacity and supporting Sierra Leone businesses.

Alex Kucharski, BII’s Head of West Africa for ARIA, added that ARIA aims to unlock investment in Sierra Leone and that the investment in Ecobank Sierra Leone will bring much-needed growth capital to underserved businesses in the country.



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Muvah Produce Participates in China International Import Expo


“ More than Just Produce, Cultivating Community“

China International Import Expo (CIIE) is a historic event hosted in Shangai, by the Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China from the 5th – 10th November 2023. There was a display of locally grown and made in Sierra Leonean products by one named SME – Muvah Produce in the Poultry/ Agro – Processing industry that pursue passion in alignment with the vision of his Excellency the President Julius Maada Bio to feed Sierra Leone.

Sierra Leone’s Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry, Fatmata Wurie, led the delegate to China marking the first-ever participation of Sierra Leone in this international event. Amongst these display of dynamic products showcased was Muvah Produce from Sierra Leone. A farm that deals in poultry and palm oil production.



The farm over the years have demonstrated so much commitment and resilience in meeting its objective of providing healthy, organic, agriculturally mechanize and safe products for Sierra Leoneans. Muvah produce pride itself in egg, chicken and palm-oil production. The farm’s consistency and credibility has been nothing but impressive to its customers. The farm has professionals with wealth of experience and knowledge in the production of quality products that set it apart from competitors.

At Muvah Produce, standard and quality is our top priority, and as always Muvah Produce “De gro nd eat watin dem we plnt or produce” promoting local content.



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Rokel Commercial Bank, MD & CEO Nominated for Prestigious International Award Hosted in the UK by Reputation Poll International


The Africa Branding Agency is an organization based in Sierra Leone, which collaborates with Africa Achievers Award and Reputation Poll UK.

Rokel Commercial Bank was recently honored by being named one of Sierra Leone’s Top 10 Most Reputable Financial Institutions on November 4, 2023, during the nomination and certification program held at The TEES Shopping Mall, Wilkinson Road, Freetown.

The Bank’s Managing Director & CEO, Dr. Walton E. Gilpin, was also nominated as one of the Top 5 Financial Leaders in the country and will represent Sierra Leone at the Global Reputational Forum & Reputation Fintech and Award Night, that will be hosted by Reputation Poll International on December 8th and 9th, 2023, at the Marriott County Hall in London.



The Chairman responsible for the certification of the merit program, Mr. Mohamed Ahmed Kanu, underscored the credibility and significance of the nomination process. He also stressed the substantial contributions made by the nominated Financial Leaders and Institutions.

Speaking on behalf of The Africa Branding Agency, the CEO of BRAND SALONE, Mr. Abdul Wahab Bangura, extended his congratulations to the leaders and financial institutions representing Sierra Leone at the Marriott County Hall in London. He emphasized, “These programs and similar initiatives are consistently organized to acknowledge dedicated individuals, institutions, and various sectors that contribute positively to Sierra Leone’s development and growth as a nation.”

This accolade serves as a testament to Rokel Commercial Bank’s steadfast dedication to excellence and its substantial contributions to the financial sector.

The prestigious honor bestowed by Brand Salone reflects the Bank’s exceptional reputation and its continuous commitment to delivering outstanding banking services to its customers. With a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction and innovation, Rokel Commercial Bank has established itself as a trusted name in the financial industry.

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

Through its participation in this global platform, Rokel Bank will have the opportunity to demonstrate its exemplary reputation management practices and innovative Fintech solutions. This acknowledgment underscores the bank’s commitment to excellence and its ongoing endeavors to strengthen customer trust and satisfaction.

Aruna Dumbuya and Kadijah Jalloh from the Public Relations Department represented RCBank. They expressed their gratitude for the nomination and certification program, which they viewed as a testament to the tireless efforts of the Bank’s Board, Management, and leadership.

Addressing the Bank’s Leadership and Management ideologies, Mr. Dumbuya highlighted Dr. Gilpin’s commitment to fostering innovation and embracing advanced technologies to cater to evolving customer needs. These efforts are aimed at improving accessibility and convenience for customers while upholding high service quality standards.

RCBank – The Bank of Choice



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Rokel Commercial Bank Receives Prestigious Accreditation from the International Trade Council


Rokel Commercial Bank in Sierra Leone has secured a notable milestone by obtaining accreditation from the esteemed International Trade Council (ITC).

As the latest addition to the league of accredited financial institutions, the bank now joins a globally recognized chamber of commerce committed to fostering international trade, dismantling trade barriers, and enhancing global commerce through education, networking, and pivotal business intelligence.

For numerous years, the ITC has been a leading advocate for market liberalization and equitable trade practices worldwide. The organization’s primary focus lies in promoting transparent, predictable, and multilaterally coordinated regulations while aiding members in navigating the complexities of international trade through streamlined processes and essential resources.

With local chapters established in 28 countries and a membership spanning 179 nations, the ITC’s influence encompasses government trade and investment agencies, Chamber of Commerce associations, and various business organizations. Widely regarded as a global trade advocacy powerhouse, the ITC’s impact has been palpable, creating job opportunities and enhancing living standards across the globe.

In an accreditation letter issued to Rokel Commercial Bank, signed by Nina Escarda from the organization’s Secretariat, the bank was certified for demonstrating compliance and acknowledgment as a member of the International Trade Council.

Expressing enthusiasm about the accreditation, Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin, the Managing Director of Rokel Commercial Bank, highlighted the bank’s commitment to leveraging this achievement to make significant strides. Gilpin emphasized the potential for increased trade opportunities and expanded coverage, emphasizing the substantial win for Sierra Leone. He affirmed the bank’s dedication to becoming the preferred banking institution in the region.

The accreditation from the International Trade Council signifies a remarkable endorsement for Rokel Commercial Bank, reinforcing its position and signaling a new chapter in facilitating global trade and economic growth within Sierra Leone.



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