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


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

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

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



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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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



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Orange Sierra Leone Unveils 2024 CSR Report on Economic Growth and Community Transformation


Orange Sierra Leone has published its 2024 Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Report, highlighting major achievements in national development, digital advancement, environmental sustainability, and community well-being.

The report reflects the company’s continued commitment to supporting government priorities and improving lives through inclusive and responsible business practices.

Strong Economic Contribution and Local Empowerment



In 2024, Orange Sierra Leone contributed NLe781 million directly to the national economy through taxes, licenses, wages, and other statutory payments. The company also played a vital role in supporting Sierra Leonean businesses, generating NLe998 million in revenue for local suppliers across multiple sectors. This aligns with Orange’s strategy to prioritize local partnerships and strengthen domestic value chains.

Expanding Digital Inclusion Nationwide

A major highlight of the report is the expansion of digital access across the country. In 2024, 95% of the population was covered by 4G broadband, enabling more Sierra Leoneans to access online services, education, and business opportunities. To ensure network resilience and reduce carbon emissions, approximately 70% of Orange’s network sites are now solar-powered, reflecting the company’s investment in clean and sustainable energy.

Environmental Commitment Through Reforestation

Orange also advanced its environmental commitments, planting 10,000 trees in Kawase Hill, Moyamba District. This reforestation effort is aimed at restoring degraded land, protecting biodiversity, and supporting climate resilience in rural communities.

Youth Empowerment Through Skills and Innovation

The Orange Digital Center (ODC) continued to serve as a national hub for education, innovation, and entrepreneurship. In 2024 alone, the ODC trained over 14,500 young people in digital literacy, coding, entrepreneurship, and technology-based skills.

  • Women represented 47% of total trainees, reflecting the company’s drive toward gender inclusion.
  • 38% of beneficiaries secured job opportunities or started income-generating activities, demonstrating the centre’s impact on employability.

Community Impact Through the Orange Sierra Leone Foundation

Through its foundation, Orange impacted 14,627 beneficiaries across the country with programmes focused on education, health, women’s empowerment, youth development, and community resilience. Initiatives included scholarships, rural school support, digital education for girls, maternal health partnerships, breast cancer awareness, and emergency community support projects.

Driving a National Vision Through Responsible Business

The CSR Report emphasizes Orange Sierra Leone’s dedication to supporting the government’s development agenda especially in digitalization, youth employment, community health, and economic sustainability. The company reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive growth, responsible technology use, and environmental stewardship.

In CEO Sekou Amadou Bah’s statement accompanying the report, he noted, “Our CSR ambition is a direct reflection of our brand values: Care, Bold, and Responsible. It speaks powerfully to our renewed brand message: Orange is Here! This presence goes beyond the physical it symbolizes our unwavering dedication to improving the lives of Sierra Leoneans in meaningful and sustainable ways.”

Orange Sierra Leone noted that its achievements are the result of collective effort across staff, partners, customers, and communities, and reaffirmed its dedication to making technology a force for positive change.

To access the Full Report, Scan the QR Code below or visit the company’s official website: https://www.orange.sl/en/csrannualreport-2024.html

With its ambitious goals and growing impact, Orange Sierra Leone continues to position itself not only as a leader in connectivity and innovation but also as a driving force for national transformation.



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Afrikonet.sl – The Fastest and Most Secure Online Marketplace in Sierra Leone


In today’s world, buying and selling online is one of the fastest ways to do business. But in Sierra Leone, many people still face challenges when it comes to shopping or selling online. That is why Afrikonet.sl was created — to make online buying and selling easy, fast, and secure for everyone.

Breaking the Barriers of Online Business in Sierra Leone

For many years, business owners and customers have faced problems such as:



Lack of trust between buyers and sellers
Limited or unreliable payment methods
Late deliveries and fake products
Few platforms where vendors can showcase their goods to a wider audience

Afrikonet.sl was launched to solve these issues. Since its launch in May this year, over 2,000 people have already joined the platform. This shows how ready Sierra Leoneans are for a reliable online marketplace.

Safe and Flexible Payment Options

Afrikonet.sl provides a simple and secure payment system that works for everyone. Buyers can pay using:

Orange Money
Afrimoney
Debit Card
Payment on Delivery

This flexibility gives both vendors and customers confidence in every transaction.

A Local Team You Can Trust

Afrikonet.sl is not just a website — it has a physical office and a dedicated team of marketers in Sierra Leone. The local presence means vendors and buyers can get real support whenever they need it. The marketing team helps vendors set up their stores, promote their products, and reach more customers.

A Golden Opportunity for Young People

In this digital age, young people have the chance to make money from the comfort of their homes. Afrikonet.sl gives Sierra Leonean youth a simple way to open an online store, list their products, and start earning. Whether you sell clothes, gadgets, food, or local crafts, Afrikonet.sl helps you grow your business fast.

Why Choose Afrikonet.sl

Fast and secure online transactions
Multiple payment options
Local presence and support team

👥 Trusted by 500+ users since launch
🚀 Great opportunity for young entrepreneurs

Join Afrikonet.sl Today

If you are a vendor who wants to grow your business or a buyer searching for trusted products, Afrikonet.sl is the solution.

Visit www.afrikonet.sl to open your store today and start making money online.



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Bank of Sierra Leone Cuts Key Interest Rate to 18.75% to Spur Growth


The Bank of Sierra Leone (BSL) has cut its benchmark interest rate by three percentage points, lowering the cost of borrowing for businesses and individuals.

The decision, approved by the BSL Board of Directors on September 24, 2025, lowers the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) to 18.75 percent. The move was recommended by the bank’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) following a meeting on September 23, chaired by Governor Dr. Ibrahim L. Stevens.

The rate reduction is aimed at stimulating private sector investment and comes amid a backdrop of declining inflation and a more stable economic environment.



“The improved domestic macroeconomic conditions are expected to cushion the effects of… global risks,” the central bank stated, justifying the policy shift.

The committee pointed to a significant drop in inflation, which fell to 5.85 percent in August 2025, as a key factor in its decision. This decline was attributed to lower global commodity prices, prudent government policies, and a relatively stable exchange rate.

Furthermore, the economy is projected to grow by 4.5 percent in 2025, driven by improvements in agriculture, services, and mining. The medium-term outlook remains positive, with growth expected to average 4.7 percent in 2026 and 2027.

Other positive indicators cited include a narrowed fiscal deficit, a surplus in the trade balance, and a decline in the government’s borrowing costs, which frees up fiscal space.

Effective September 26, 2025, the new rates are as follows:

  • Monetary Policy Rate (MPR): 18.75%
  • Standing Lending Facility Rate (SLFR): 21.75%
  • Standing Deposit Facility Rate (SDFR): 12.25%

The MPC also urged commercial banks to increase lending to the private sector and called for intensified regulatory oversight to address threats like non-performing loans and cybersecurity risks.

The committee affirmed its commitment to maintaining low inflation and financial stability, stating it will “stand ready to recommend an adjustment of the monetary policy stance should risks to the inflation outlook change.”

The next MPC meeting is scheduled for December 18, 2025.



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Sierra Leone and Seven Other West African Countries in Malaysia to Unveil the Truth About QNET


QNET, a 26-year-old international direct selling company with operations in about 100 countries including Sierra Leone has invited journalists from seven West African countries to visit its Head Office in Malaysia and attend this year’s VCON, a global gathering of QNET’s independent distributors, marketing experts, entrepreneurs, and other stakeholders.

Among the journalists invited from QNET’s sub-Saharan Africa operations were senior reporters and editors from Ghana, Nigeria, Togo, Senegal, Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone. The Editor of Sierraloaded represented Sierra Leone.

As part of a tradition it began in 2022, QNET annually invites journalists from various countries to its headquarters to witness first-hand its operations and attend the company’s flagship conference, VCON, in Malaysia. This is part of its continued efforts to counter misinformation and build transparency around its brand and products.



In recent years, QNET has faced widespread misconceptions, as scammers have falsely used the company’s name to defraud people. In response, QNET has increased public education through press statements, media engagement events, and partnerships with security and government agencies particularly in Sierra Leone. It has also launched a robust anti-fraud initiative called “QNET Against Scams,” aimed at offering clear, factual information about the company and its offerings.

As part of the media tour, West African journalists visited QNET’s 15-storey headquarters, the QI Tower a towering and modern facility that visibly reinforces the company’s legitimacy and global reach. They also toured the QNET product gallery, where they could see and experience the lifestyle and wellness products the company manufactures for customers in Sierra Leone, Africa, and beyond.

Journalists participated in presentations detailing QNET’s business structure, philosophy, model, and product lines. During these sessions, it was made evident that QNET is a long-established company with a genuine presence and commitment to African markets. The media team was also introduced to the RYTHM Foundation (Raise Yourself To Help Mankind), the company’s corporate social responsibility arm, which supports impactful humanitarian projects worldwide.

Day One of the tour emphasized QNET’s operations in Africa especially Sierra Leone where fraudulent individuals have used the company’s name to exploit innocent people. QNET made it clear that it has no association with such individuals and is actively working to combat scams and misinformation. Inviting journalists from several African countries is one way QNET aims to increase transparency and correct public misconceptions.

During the sessions, QNET repeatedly clarified the following:

It does not offer job opportunities abroad or require large payments in exchange for employment.

It does not offer scholarships or visa services.

QNET is not a Ponzi scheme or an investment platform.

Anyone spreading such false claims should be reported to security agencies or directly to QNET via its WhatsApp hotline: +233 256 630 005.

VCON 2025 officially opens on June 21, 2025, on the beautiful island of Penang, Malaysia, with over 8,000 participants expected from around the world.



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Bank of Sierra Leone Announces Reduction in Monetary Policy Rate to Boost Economic Growth


The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Bank of Sierra Leone (BSL) has reduced the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) by 1 percentage point to 23.75%, effective June 24, 2025, in a move aimed at lowering borrowing costs and stimulating private sector investment.

The decision, approved by the BSL Board of Directors on June 23, follows a review of global and domestic economic conditions. Governor Dr. Ibrahim L. Stevens announced corresponding adjustments to the Standing Lending Facility Rate (SLFR) and Standing Deposit Facility Rate (SDFR), now set at 26.75% and 17.25%, respectively.

The MPC’s decision comes amid a cautiously optimistic outlook for Sierra Leone’s economy, underpinned by a significant decline in domestic inflation from 13.78% in December 2024 to 7.55% in May 2025. This drop, attributed to prudent monetary policies, fiscal discipline, stable fuel prices, and a relatively steady exchange rate, has created room for the BSL to ease monetary policy to support investment and growth.



Globally, the economic landscape remains challenging, with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), and the World Bank revising down their 2025 global growth forecasts to 2.8%, 2.9%, and 2.3%, respectively. These downgrades reflect trade policy shifts and geopolitical tensions, which could disrupt supply chains and exert inflationary pressures on Sierra Leone’s economy. Despite these risks, the MPC noted that global inflation is expected to decline in 2025 and 2026 due to tighter monetary policies and falling commodity prices.

Domestically, Sierra Leone’s economy is projected to grow by 4.5% in 2025, up from 4.0% in 2024, driven by strong performances in mining, agriculture, and services. The MPC anticipates growth to rise further to 4.7% in 2026 and 2027, supported by government initiatives to enhance agricultural productivity. However, external risks such as global supply chain disruptions and trade tensions could pose challenges, prompting calls for policies to bolster economic resilience.

The MPC highlighted mixed developments in Sierra Leone’s external and fiscal sectors. The trade deficit widened in the first quarter of 2025 due to higher import costs and lower export earnings, while foreign exchange reserves fell to cover just 1.8 months of imports. On the fiscal front, the budget deficit grew in early 2025 due to lower domestic revenue and higher interest payments, though reduced spending on goods, services, and subsidies narrowed the primary deficit. A decline in the 364-day Treasury Bill rate has eased borrowing costs, providing fiscal space for the government.

Monetary developments showed a contraction in reserve money but moderate growth in broad money (M2) in the first quarter. While credit to the private sector increased, it remains insufficient to drive significant investment. The MPC stressed the need for a more inclusive credit environment to support private sector growth.

In its statement, the MPC emphasised that the rate cut aims to encourage private sector credit, reduce borrowing costs, and promote sustainable growth while maintaining vigilance over inflationary risks. The next MPC meeting is scheduled for 25 September 2025.



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Sierra Leone Commercial Bank Signs Strategic Partnership With Republic Bank Ghana


Sierra Leone Commercial Bank (SLCB) has taken a significant step toward regional integration and institutional strengthening by signing a technical cooperation agreement with Republic Bank Ghana.

This strategic partnership aims to enhance SLCB’s operational capacity and accelerate its transformation into a modern, innovation-led financial institution within West Africa.

More than just a ceremonial accord, the agreement signifies a commitment to deep technical collaboration, focusing on knowledge exchange, capacity building, and the enhancement of expertise. These elements are core to SLCB’s long-term vision of becoming a resilient bank that meets diverse financial needs across the region.



The official signing ceremony took place in Accra, Ghana, and featured key leadership figures from both banks. Republic Bank Ghana was represented by its Managing Director, Board Chairman, and other senior executives, while SLCB’s delegation included its Board Chairman, Managing Director, Director of Finance, and Head of the Company Secretariat, highlighting the strategic importance of the partnership.

Through this alliance, SLCB aims to leverage Republic Bank Ghana’s extensive experience and technical knowledge to drive excellence in service delivery, digital transformation, and sustainable banking practices. The collaboration is expected to lead to improved product offerings, more efficient systems, and greater customer satisfaction within Sierra Leone’s banking sector.

Both banks reaffirmed their shared vision of promoting higher standards in regional banking. The partnership is anticipated to yield mutual benefits, strengthening institutional performance and contributing to broader economic development in both Sierra Leone and Ghana.

This technical cooperation marks a pivotal moment in SLCB’s growth journey, signaling its readiness to embrace regional opportunities and deliver lasting value to customers, employees, shareholders, and the financial ecosystem at large.



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Air Sierra Leone Warns Travelers Against Unauthorized Winter Ticket Sales |


Air Sierra Leone has issued a formal advisory warning travelers and the general public to refrain from purchasing airline tickets for the upcoming November December period through unofficial channels.

The airline clarified that tickets for the winter season have not yet been released and any current offers circulating online particularly those on UK-based travel websites are unauthorized and invalid.



According to a public notice signed by Augustine Bona, the airline’s Head of Commercial, these fraudulent sales are being carried out by individuals and agencies falsely presenting themselves as legitimate agents of Air Sierra Leone. The airline emphasized that official tickets will only be available through its website and authorized Sales Representatives.

“We urge all passengers to verify sources and avoid falling victim to schemes that could result in loss of funds or denied boarding,” the notice stated.

Air Sierra Leone has vowed to take decisive legal action against perpetrators engaged in deceptive practices or misrepresentation of the company.

This warning comes amid increased demand for holiday travel, making unsuspecting travelers more vulnerable to ticketing fraud. The airline’s move is widely seen as a proactive effort to safeguard public trust and ensure the integrity of its booking system.

Travelers are advised to monitor the airline’s official channels for accurate updates and refrain from making purchases until a formal announcement is made.



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Africell Sierra Leone Launches Easy SIM Update with National Identification Number (NIN) |


Africell Sierra Leone is making it simpler than ever for customers to update their SIM cards with their National Identification Number (NIN).

With just a few quick steps, subscribers can now complete the process themselves from the comfort of their phones.

To update, customers simply need to dial *999# and follow the on screen instructions. After entering their NIN, they only need to provide their year of birth.



For those who prefer in person assistance, Africell’s POS shops across the country are ready to help customers update their SIMs hassle free.

Mr. Abdul Kamara, Africell’s Customer Experience Manager, stated, “We are committed to providing our customers with easy, secure, and convenient ways to stay connected while complying with national regulations. This SIM update process empowers our subscribers to take control and update their details at their convenience.”

Africell reminds those without a NIN to visit the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) office to obtain their National Identification Card.

A spokesperson from NCRA added, “Obtaining your National Identification Card is essential for accessing various services, including SIM registration. We encourage all Sierra Leoneans to register promptly.”

This initiative is part of Africell’s commitment to ensuring seamless connectivity and compliance with national regulations.



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Bank of Sierra Leone Cuts Monetary Policy Rate Amid Declining Inflation |


The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Bank of Sierra Leone (BSL), following its quarterly meeting on July 24, 2025, has announced a significant reduction in its key policy rates, effective July 29, 2025.

The move aims to sustain macroeconomic stability, address inflationary pressures, and stimulate private sector credit.

The Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) has been reduced by 2 percentage points to 21.75%. Concurrently, the Standing Lending Facility Rate (SLFR) has been lowered to 23.75%, and the Standing Deposit Facility Rate (SDFR) to 14.25%. These adjustments were approved by the BSL’s Board of Directors on July 28, 2025.



According to the MPC, the decision was premised on several positive developments:

  • Declining Inflation: Inflationary pressures have continued to ease, with headline inflation dropping to 7.10% in June 2025, down from 7.55% in May 2025. This follows a reported 13.8% in December 2024.
  • Falling Treasury Bill Rates: There has been a further reduction in the 364-day Treasury Bill rate, falling from 20.40% on June 12, 2025, to 15.77% on July 17, 2025, attributed to ongoing fiscal consolidation efforts by the government.
  • Improved Economic Activity: Real GDP growth is projected to increase to 5.5% in 2025, a rise from 4.4% in 2024. The BSL’s Composite Index of Economic Activity (CIEA) indicates a slight slowdown in economic activity in the second quarter of 2025.
  • Private Sector Credit Growth: A slight decrease in private sector credit growth was noted, from 3.72% of GDP in March 2025 to 3.69% of GDP in May 2025.
  • Stable Exchange Rate: The Leone/US Dollar exchange rate has remained relatively stable, supported by monetary and fiscal policy coordination, leading to improved market sentiment.

Despite these positive trends, the MPC acknowledged that global economic uncertainty remains a risk.

The MPC emphasized that the balance of risks to the inflation outlook has shifted downwards. Therefore, a more consistent monetary policy stance is being adopted to align with developments in the money market, stimulate private sector credit, and enhance price stability.

The committee reiterated its commitment to maintaining price stability and will continue to recommend adjustments to the monetary policy stance before the next MPC meeting, should market conditions warrant. The next MPC meeting is scheduled for September 25, 2025.

The statement was issued by Dr. Ibrahim L. Stevens, Governor of the Bank of Sierra Leone.



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