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QNET Launches Anti-Scam Campaign to Combat Fraud and Brand Misrepresentation in Sierra Leone


QNET, a global lifestyle and wellness-focused direct selling company, has launched its “QNET Against Scams” campaign in Sierra Leone. The initiative aims to educate the public and raise stakeholder awareness about fraudulent activities misusing the QNET brand.

QNET Against Scams’ coverage in Sierra Leone.
The comprehensive campaign will utilise multiple channels, including television, radio, online news portals, social media, print media, and billboards across Sierra Leone. Billboards would be mounted at strategic locations in Freetown. This will be replicated in Bo, Makeni, Kenema and other towns, while the radio, television, print and online media announcements are expected to reach the entire country.

Fight against scams is a collective responsibility
Mr. Biram Fall, Regional General Manager for QNET, stated, “We have successfully launched same campaign in Ghana and Senegal, and the feedback is amazing: people are understanding our products and business model better. This public education and media campaign is part of the deliberate actions we are taking to aggressively combat the misrepresentation and misuse of the QNET name in Sierra Leone. We must unite to fight against people and scammers who are defrauding innocent Sierra Leoneans, and awareness is our most powerful tool in this battle,” he explained.
Mr. Fall outlined the campaign’s primary objectives:
1. Raise public awareness about QNET’s legitimate business operations and its products
2. Educate individuals on identifying and avoiding scams that misrepresent and misuse QNET’s name and products
3. Collaborate with law enforcement and government agencies to prosecute offenders
4. Reinforce QNET’s commitment to transparency and ethical business practices
“QNET is about empowerment, not exploitation. And we are fighting back against scams and all forms of misrepresentation of our brand in Sierra Leone,” he concluded.



QNET provides safe reporting channels
QNET urges the public to actively participate in this campaign by reporting any suspicious activities falsely representing the company. Reports can be made via WhatsApp at +233256630005 or email at [email protected]. For more information about QNET and its products, please visit www.qnet.net.

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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RCBank Launches Campaign to Promote Digital Payment Systems


Rokel Commercial Bank, alias RCBank has initiated a campaign to promote its digital payment products and support the National Payment Switch launched by the Bank of Sierra Leone.

The campaign features comedian and brand ambassador Kindo Armani, who is engaging the Western Area community to raise awareness about the bank’s offerings.

The campaign encourages customers to sign up for the National Switch and utilize RCBank’s instant digital payment solutions, including Rokel Sim Korpor, Rokel ekorpor, Rokel prepaid cards, and Visa debit cards. This initiative is part of RCBank’s strategy to establish itself as a leading financial services provider in Sierra Leone and the surrounding region.



Kindo Armani, along with RCBank’s VISA activation team, has been educating the public about the benefits of these digital products. “With RCBank pre-paid card, you don’t need to have a bank account.

The card can be used anywhere in the world where cards are accepted. We are making payments seamless in Sierra Leone,” he stated. He highlighted that customers can shop online, pay bills, and make hotel and airline bookings using a VISA card.

To obtain a VISA card, customers need to present a valid ID and make an initial deposit of NLE 200, without requiring a bank account. Cardholders can access cash through any Automated Teller Machine (ATM) worldwide.

RCBank’s digital cards are part of its commitment to providing modern and efficient banking services while promoting financial inclusion for individuals previously excluded from the banking system.

The cards are a key feature of RCBank’s E-banking package, known as “E-baskit,” which allows customers to conduct various banking activities online and via mobile, reducing the need for physical branch visits.

Through this campaign, RCBank aims to enhance financial inclusion and support the National Payment Switch, contributing to the transformation of the banking landscape in Sierra Leone.



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Orange SL Officially Launches Groundbreaking Employee Shareholder Program to Empower Workforce


In a landmark development that underscores its commitment to empowering its workforce and building long-term sustainability, Orange Sierra Leone has officially announced the launch of an Employee Shareholder Program, giving staff the opportunity to become part-owners of the company.

The initiative was unveiled during a high-level Town Hall Meeting at the company’s Hill Station headquarters on Monday, 26th May 2025, as part of a three-day working visit by Elisabeth Medou Badang, Chief Human Resource Officer for Orange Middle East and Africa (MEA).

The announcement marks a transformative shift in the company’s corporate strategy aligning employee contributions with ownership and providing a new framework for inclusive growth and engagement.



Agnes Songa, Human Resources Director of Orange Sierra Leone, welcomed the MEA HR Chief and described her presence as a profound demonstration of the Orange Group’s values of care, responsibility, and bold leadership. She emphasized that while Sierra Leone is a small affiliate in terms of size, its performance, staff engagement, and impact within the Orange network remain highly significant.

“We may be small in size, but we are strong in voice and performance,” said Songa. “We’re a top-performing affiliate and this visit is a testimony to that. Our CEO, Sekou Amadou Bah, has created an environment where staffs thrive, and this new shareholder initiative takes it a step further.”

CEO Sekou Amadou Bah used the occasion to officially launch the Employee Shareholder Program, describing it as a historic milestone in the company’s journey. He acknowledged the critical role of Elisabeth Medou Badang in guiding the vision and execution of the program.

“This program reflects our strong belief that employees are at the heart of our success,” said Bah. “With this initiative, we are not only recognizing your hard work we are inviting you to share in the company’s future prosperity as shareholders.”

He explained that the initiative allows employees to acquire shares in Orange Sierra Leone, aligning their personal success with that of the company. The move is expected to boost employee morale, drive accountability, and deepen staff loyalty.

In her keynote address, Elisabeth Medou Badang hailed the program as a “bold and visionary step,” reinforcing Orange Sierra Leone’s role as a pacesetter in the MEA region. She congratulated the team for their exceptional performance in employee engagement, innovation, and financial growth.

“I’m incredibly proud of what you have achieved in Sierra Leone,” she said. “You consistently rank at the top in engagement and satisfaction across the MEA region, and now you are leading again with this employee ownership program. This is your company. As Orange grows, so will your wealth not just through salaries, but through dividends and shared success.”

She described the launch of the Employee Shareholding Program as a symbol of trust, empowering staff to become co-creators of value in a company that belongs to them not just in spirit, but now in tangible ownership.

Medou Badang also took time to commend the warm hospitality of Sierra Leoneans, sharing how the country left a remarkable impression on her from the moment she arrived. She encouraged staff to maintain the culture of excellence, innovation, and collaboration that has made Orange Sierra Leone a model affiliate.

“This is your company, your home, and your legacy,” she said. “Continue to build it with pride, commitment, and unity. The sky is not the limit the sky is your next starting point.”

The launch of the Employee Shareholder Program is expected to inspire similar models across the Orange Group’s operations in Africa and the Middle East, signaling a new chapter in employee-centered corporate leadership.



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Orange Sierra Leone Launches ‘Pay as You Go’ Energy Solar kits


Orange Energy was launched in June 2020. The idea of orange energy was born out of a survey that was conducted to know the immediate need of our customers particularly in rural areas.

The report shows that people were in dire need of energy to provide basic lighting services and to be able to charge their phones to stay connected to their loved ones & business associates.

Orange Energy allows households without access to energy to buy a solar kit with the money they would have spent on candles and oil lamps. They can buy the solar kit by paying small sums via Orange Money each week or each month (pay as you go).



Our business model is Pay as you Go (PAYG) which means that we sell our solar kits on credit. Customers must make an upfront payment plus at least one month subscription fee to start using the service. Further payments are made on monthly basis for a specified period at the end of which the product becomes free for the customer. During this period if the Solar Kits is faulty, which is not the fault of the customer, orange will either repair or replace the device immediately.

This opportunity comes at a time when there is global clamour for the adoption of clean energy. Orange Energy provides reliable and environmentally friendly energy that meets the environmental requirements without compromising the safety of our customers and the future generation.

Orange energy carters for the needs of both urban and rural families that are not connected to the national grid and provides a solution in the event of load shedding.

For further information please contact all orange facilities across the Country.



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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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Salone Payment Switch Launches For Instant Payment Service Across Sierra Leone


The Bank of Sierra Leone has officially launched Salone Payment Switch, its Instant Payment Service, a groundbreaking initiative that will enable real-time money transfers between banks and mobile money platforms.

The launch was announced by the Bank Governor of the Sierra Leone Central Bank, Dr. Ibrahim Stevens, during a press conference at the Ministry of Information and Civic Engagement. The official launch, scheduled for Wednesday, February 13, 2024, will be conducted by Vice President Juldeh Jalloh.

Dr. Stevens explained that the Instant Payment Service will allow for immediate payments between banks and mobile operators, streamlining financial transactions for all Sierra Leoneans. He encouraged the public to register for the service to take full advantage of its benefits.

Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, hailed the Instant Payment Service as a “huge and massive development” for Sierra Leone. He emphasized the service’s ability to provide immediate transaction notifications and instant access to funds, eliminating the previous delays associated with traditional banking cash-out services.

A representative from the Sierra Leone Association of Commercial Banks, Velma Labor, highlighted the benefits for merchants, stating that the service will enable 24/7 business transactions without the limitations of bank operating hours or holidays. This is particularly beneficial for small-scale businesses, she noted.

David Mansaray, CEO of Orange Money, underscored the significance of the achievement, noting that few countries, especially those with similar economic profiles to Sierra Leone, have successfully implemented such a system. He emphasized the advanced nature of the service and its potential to transform financial transactions in the country.

Martinson Obeng-Agyei, CEO of Afrimoney, addressed the challenges faced by small-scale businesses in Sierra Leone, citing the cost of transaction fees and the often-intimidating process of depositing small amounts of cash in banks. He believes the Instant Payment Service will alleviate these burdens by providing a more efficient and accessible way to manage finances. He urged Sierra Leoneans to embrace the new system and recognize its potential to build a more robust financial ecosystem.



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ITC Launches READY Salone Project to Train 3,000 Sierra Leonean Youth For The Digital Economy


Young entrepreneurs in Sierra Leone are set to sharpen their digital skills with the launch of the ‘Sierra Leone: Empowering Youth through Digital Technologies’ (READY Salone) project by the International Trade Centre (ITC).

Funded by the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and implemented over four years, the READY Salone project will support youth, young entrepreneurs, business support organizations, tech hubs and policymakers to harness opportunities in the digital economy. The initiative places a strong emphasis on young women and persons with disabilities.

The launch event will be attended by key government officials, including Hon. Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, Chief Minister; Hon. Ms. Haja Salimatu Bah, Minister of Communication, Technology and Innovation; Hon. Mr. Mohamed Orman Bangura, Minister of Youth Affairs; and Hon. Mr. Ibrahim Alpha Sesay, Minister of Trade and Industry. Over 100 youth and key stakeholders from the business and tech communities are also expected to participate.



To mark the project launch, there will be a signing of a memorandum of understanding by ITC Executive Director, Ms. Pamela Coke-Hamilton; the Chief Minister of Sierra Leone, Hon. Dr. David Moinina Sengeh; and KOICA Nigeria, Deputy Country Director, Mr. Baik Ki-Hyun.

Four interventions underpin the READY Salone project: enhancing digital literacy among youth; boosting entrepreneurial competitiveness through upskilling; strengthening tech-focused business support services; and developing inclusive national digital strategies. More information about the project can be found in its flyer here.

Through the project, 3,000 youth and 250 micro, small and medium-sized enterprises will gain access to digital skills and business opportunities.

The Ministry of Youth Affairs and the Ministry of Communications, Technology and Innovation are the main government partners for READY Salone.

Interested youth and young entrepreneurs may express their interest in the project by completing this form.

About the International Trade Centre

ITC is the joint agency of the World Trade Organization and the United Nations. ITC assists small and medium-sized enterprises in developing and transition economies to become more competitive in global markets, thereby contributing to sustainable economic development within the frameworks of the Aid-for-Trade agenda and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

For more information, visit www.intracen.org.



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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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Orange Money Launches ‘Kotoku’ Wallet to Empower Small Businesses


Orange Money has officially launched its highly anticipated ‘Kotoku’ initiative.

The launching ceremony was held on Friday, 18th October 2024, at Orange’s office, Rawdon Street in Freetown.

The initiative aim to support and empower small businesses across Sierra Leone, and the launching was met with excitement, especially from market women who sang in unison, “Kotoku na wan word oh, oh yah, Kotoku na wan word oh, oh yah,” reflecting their enthusiasm for this new mobile money solution.



The ‘Kotoku’ product, named after the Krio word for “pocket,” is a mobile money service designed to enhance financial transactions for small business owners, particularly in the informal sector. It provides a secure, accessible, and user-friendly platform for traders to save, send, and receive money. This will help them better manage their finances, conduct payments, and grow their businesses.

In his remarks, Joseph Saffa Tengbeh, Head of Marketing, Strategy, and Partnership at Orange Money, explained that ‘Kotoku’ is tailored for small and medium-scale businesses. He noted that in the past, when customers wanted to pay via Orange Money, traders would often ask for payments to be made to their personal numbers, leading to additional costs, such as cash-out fees.

The ‘Kotoku’ initiative addresses these issues by creating a separate business wallet for traders, allowing them to manage both personal and business transactions on the same number. “With ‘Kotoku,’ business owners now have a designated business wallet. This system not only makes their transactions more professional but also eliminates the need for additional cash-out fees and even offers commissions on payments received,” Tengbeh stated.

He added that ‘Kotoku’ is not just for business owners but also caters to Keke riders, bike riders, taxi drivers, and other small-scale entrepreneurs.
He encouraged small business owners to enroll in ‘Kotoku’ by dialing #144810# or registering with Orange Money field sales agents, who are providing free enrollment services. One of the key benefits of the initiative is that businesses do not need formal registration to qualify for the service, a departure from the previous merchant system.

Additionally, Tengbeh highlighted that ‘Kotoku’ users will not need separate passwords for their business wallet, as it will operate with the same credentials as their personal wallet.

He further emphasized the advantages of the initiative, noting that business owners who use ‘Kotoku’ will receive commissions on payments made through their wallet, enjoy free cash-outs, and be able to transfer funds to other ‘Kotoku’ wallets without incurring any charges. Traders using ‘Kotoku’ are also eligible for loans of up to NLE 5,000.

David Mansaray, Chief Executive Officer of Orange Money, stressed the significance of ‘Kotoku’ in empowering small businesses. “Small businesses are the backbone of Sierra Leone’s economy. With ‘Kotoku,’ we are ensuring that these businesses, many run by women, have access to modern financial services that will support their growth and sustainability,” Mansaray said.

Mansaray noted that ‘Kotoku’ is part of Orange Money’s broader strategy to empower businesses in a country where many small-scale traders lack access to formal banking services. He highlighted that ‘Kotoku’ users will benefit from commissions on transactions and assured business owners that payments made into their ‘Kotoku’ wallets are secure, with no possibility of payment reversals, unlike regular Orange Money accounts.

“Kotoku is built for Sierra Leone, and our goal is to help small business owners earn more and grow their enterprises. Join ‘Kotoku’ today, and remember, Orange Money is here to stay today, tomorrow, and forever. Orange Money Kotoku ‘tay go’,” Mansaray concluded.

The Chief Commercial Officer at Orange Sierra Leone, Haffie Haffner, described the launch as historic, marking the first time such an initiative has been introduced in Sierra Leone.

She commended the Orange Money team for their efforts in empowering small businesses and urged business owners to take full advantage of the opportunities presented by ‘Kotoku.’

Matty Kanu, Chairlady of the Vegetable Sellers Association, expressed her excitement about the potential benefits of ‘Kotoku.’ “This is the kind of support we need to grow our businesses. With ‘Kotoku,’ we can now save money, make payments to suppliers without leaving our shops, and even apply for loans without incurring extra charges,” she said.

She encouraged all small business owners to enroll in the ‘Kotoku’ wallet initiative, which she described as a significant boost to their enterprises.

The ‘Kotoku’ initiative is part of Orange Money’s ongoing commitment to leveraging technology to drive economic development and improve the quality of life for Sierra Leoneans. With the majority of the population dependent on small-scale businesses, ‘Kotoku’ offers an innovative solution to the financial challenges entrepreneurs face in accessing reliable services, ultimately empowering them to grow and thrive.



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Orange Money Launches ‘Kotoku’ Wallet to Empower Small Businesses


Orange Money has officially launched its highly anticipated ‘Kotoku’ initiative.

The launching ceremony was held on Friday, 18th October 2024, at Orange’s office, Rawdon Street in Freetown.

The initiative aim to support and empower small businesses across Sierra Leone, and the launching was met with excitement, especially from market women who sang in unison, “Kotoku na wan word oh, oh yah, Kotoku na wan word oh, oh yah,” reflecting their enthusiasm for this new mobile money solution.



The ‘Kotoku’ product, named after the Krio word for “pocket,” is a mobile money service designed to enhance financial transactions for small business owners, particularly in the informal sector. It provides a secure, accessible, and user-friendly platform for traders to save, send, and receive money. This will help them better manage their finances, conduct payments, and grow their businesses.

In his remarks, Joseph Saffa Tengbeh, Head of Marketing, Strategy, and Partnership at Orange Money, explained that ‘Kotoku’ is tailored for small and medium-scale businesses. He noted that in the past, when customers wanted to pay via Orange Money, traders would often ask for payments to be made to their personal numbers, leading to additional costs, such as cash-out fees.

The ‘Kotoku’ initiative addresses these issues by creating a separate business wallet for traders, allowing them to manage both personal and business transactions on the same number. “With ‘Kotoku,’ business owners now have a designated business wallet. This system not only makes their transactions more professional but also eliminates the need for additional cash-out fees and even offers commissions on payments received,” Tengbeh stated.

He added that ‘Kotoku’ is not just for business owners but also caters to Keke riders, bike riders, taxi drivers, and other small-scale entrepreneurs.
He encouraged small business owners to enroll in ‘Kotoku’ by dialing #144810# or registering with Orange Money field sales agents, who are providing free enrollment services. One of the key benefits of the initiative is that businesses do not need formal registration to qualify for the service, a departure from the previous merchant system.

Additionally, Tengbeh highlighted that ‘Kotoku’ users will not need separate passwords for their business wallet, as it will operate with the same credentials as their personal wallet.

He further emphasized the advantages of the initiative, noting that business owners who use ‘Kotoku’ will receive commissions on payments made through their wallet, enjoy free cash-outs, and be able to transfer funds to other ‘Kotoku’ wallets without incurring any charges. Traders using ‘Kotoku’ are also eligible for loans of up to NLE 5,000.

David Mansaray, Chief Executive Officer of Orange Money, stressed the significance of ‘Kotoku’ in empowering small businesses. “Small businesses are the backbone of Sierra Leone’s economy. With ‘Kotoku,’ we are ensuring that these businesses, many run by women, have access to modern financial services that will support their growth and sustainability,” Mansaray said.

Mansaray noted that ‘Kotoku’ is part of Orange Money’s broader strategy to empower businesses in a country where many small-scale traders lack access to formal banking services. He highlighted that ‘Kotoku’ users will benefit from commissions on transactions and assured business owners that payments made into their ‘Kotoku’ wallets are secure, with no possibility of payment reversals, unlike regular Orange Money accounts.

“Kotoku is built for Sierra Leone, and our goal is to help small business owners earn more and grow their enterprises. Join ‘Kotoku’ today, and remember, Orange Money is here to stay today, tomorrow, and forever. Orange Money Kotoku ‘tay go’,” Mansaray concluded.

The Chief Commercial Officer at Orange Sierra Leone, Haffie Haffner, described the launch as historic, marking the first time such an initiative has been introduced in Sierra Leone.

She commended the Orange Money team for their efforts in empowering small businesses and urged business owners to take full advantage of the opportunities presented by ‘Kotoku.’

Matty Kanu, Chairlady of the Vegetable Sellers Association, expressed her excitement about the potential benefits of ‘Kotoku.’ “This is the kind of support we need to grow our businesses. With ‘Kotoku,’ we can now save money, make payments to suppliers without leaving our shops, and even apply for loans without incurring extra charges,” she said.

She encouraged all small business owners to enroll in the ‘Kotoku’ wallet initiative, which she described as a significant boost to their enterprises.

The ‘Kotoku’ initiative is part of Orange Money’s ongoing commitment to leveraging technology to drive economic development and improve the quality of life for Sierra Leoneans. With the majority of the population dependent on small-scale businesses, ‘Kotoku’ offers an innovative solution to the financial challenges entrepreneurs face in accessing reliable services, ultimately empowering them to grow and thrive.



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