/ By admin / Blog/ • • • • • • • • • • • • • • / 0 Comments

Sierra Leonean Digital Osusu App, MiKashBoks Introduces Innovative Personal Savings Feature


MiKashBoks, the pioneering “Osusu Na Yu Phone” fintech app founded by Sierra Leonean tech entrepreneur Salton Massally, proudly announces the launch of its personal savings feature, now available to customers in Sierra Leone.

Expanding its commitment to financial empowerment, MiKashBoks enables users to effortlessly transfer funds from their mobile money to their Personal “Mi Cashbox” wallets. This new feature allows users to grow their savings and earn interest securely, enhancing their financial stability and independence.

Key Benefits of Individual Savings Feature:

1. Secure Growth: Safely increase savings with a dedicated “Mi Cashbox” wallet.
2. Set goals and track your progress
3. Earn Interest: Benefit from earning interest on saved funds, contributing to financial growth.
4. Ease of Use: Transfer funds seamlessly from your mobile money to your Individual “Mi Cashbox” accounts.
5. Access to your money when you need it – no need to queue in a bank!



Since its August 2023 inception, MiKashBoks has grown rapidly, adding 1500 customers in its first 90 days.

MiKashBoks recently obtained its financial services licence from the Bank of Sierra Leone and has also stated its commitment to supporting financial literacy in the country.

“The introduction of ‘Mi Cashbox’ for personal savings is a game-changer in our mission to enhance financial empowerment in Sierra Leone. This feature allows our users to grow their savings securely and offers the added benefit of earning interest, contributing to their financial wellness. We remain committed to innovating in ways that support and expand financial inclusion, providing our users with robust tools to build their financial futures.” – Salton Massally, Founder, MiKashBoks

For Sierra Leone residents, you can Download MiKashBoks on the Google Play Store. For non-smartphone users, save and receive payouts using the SMS/USSD shortcode *352#.



Source link

/ By admin / Blog/ • • • • • • • • • • / 0 Comments

NP (SL) Limited Commissions New Aberdeen Road Fuel Station in Freetown


Sierra Leone’s leading  fuel distribution Company NP (SL) Limited  has Commissioned the NP Aberdeen Road Fuel Station on Monday 29th January, 2024.

The commissioning is geared towards expanding NP’s brand and market volume throughout Sierra Leone. The Company is focused on boosting partnerships with reputable individuals to enhance the supply of quality petroleum products to the general public.



A statement from NP’s Chief Executive Officer Kobi Walker, said many who are plying the Aberdeen Road  would not have thought that the new station is big enough to accommodate all the station modern equipment. He expressed appreciation working with one of their trusted Partners Hassan Sow, for selecting Np as a reliable Partner,

“We want to send a message that it is possible for Sierra Leoneans to do business with Sierra Leoneans. We want to send a message that the only people who will nake this country are Sierra Leoneans. We want to send a message that when you empower the nation, your are empowering individuals,” he said.

Speaking on the benefits of the Partnership,  he revealed that their Partner, Hassan Sow has today created employment for at least 20 People and there is a guarantee that a minimum of 100 people will survive from this investment.

The CEO further expressed appreciation to all those who helped to make the Project a success assuring every liters bought from the said station will benefit Sierra Leoneans.

General Manager of Np, Saidu Mansaray emphasized that they are in a period where  only actions can speak. He pointed out that he believes they can realize their actions based on the testimonies they will be getting from customers accessing their petroleum Products. He assured that most of the things that are present in the new facilities, NP will replicate them across all Np stations including its strategic partners

Climaxing the event was the cutting of the tape by the CEO of NP-SL Ltd, Kobi Walker and the Proprietor, Hassan Sowe marking the official commissioning of the NP Aberdeen Road Fuel Station

NP enjoys over 60% market shares, arguably the most capitalized institution in Sierra Leone with an investment of over $30m to rehabilitate the finest and most sophisticated terminal in this part of the world.

The company has forged strategic Alliances and Partnerships with over 200 retail outlets all over the country as they currently supply over 80% of Ministries, Department and Agencies.

NP can boast of being the preferred supplier to virtually all the diplomatic missions in Sierra Leone and as if that is not enough NP is also on the trajectory of becoming the first company that will automate and digitize sales as they move towards cashless transactions and solutions.



Source link

/ By admin / Blog/ • • • • • • • • • • • • • • / 0 Comments

RCBank Honored with National Education Champions Award for Outstanding Contributions to Sierra Leone’s Education and Development


Rokel Commercial Bank, standing as the leading commercial bank in the nation, is swiftly gaining early recognition in 2024 for its substantial contributions to education and the overall development of Sierra Leone.

The bank’s remarkable efforts in supporting education and community development have not gone unnoticed, marking a commendable start to the year.

The Bank was awarded for its eminent contributions to the educational sector over the past five years on the 27th January, 2024 during the National Education Champions Awards – Dinner & Awards Night at the Hotel Cabenda Signal Hill Freetown by the Mamie Mariama Justice Ganawah Education Foundation.



Additionally, the Foundation presented a plaque award of Significant Contributor in the Education Sector to the Managing Director & CEO of RCBank, which was received by the Head of Public Relations Unit (Aruna Dumbuya) on behalf of the MD.

The keynote speaker, Mr. Alhaji Allieu Sesay is an accomplished Policy Analyst, Economic Management Specialist, Tax & Customs Expert, Macroeconomist, and Econometrician with over twenty-five (25) years of professional experience in research, policy analysis, public policy, management, economic and public financial strategist.

Mr. Sesay recognized the good work of the foundation and commended Mr. Justice Ganawah for thriving on the ideologies of his mother. Mr. Sesay noted the importance of education and encouraged all to support the philanthropic work of the foundation; as the foundation’s concept is in line with the achievement of quality and sustainable education and meeting Universal Global Objectives for poverty reduction and sustainable development in education.

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Justice Ganawah – of the Foundation commented on the focus, mission and vision of the foundation, stating that their work is geared towards achieving quality and sustainable education for the less privileged and hardworking students in Sierra Leone.

‘Hence Mamie Mariama Justice Ganawah Education Foundation (MaMJGEF) is here for the less privileged and hard-working students to acquire high-quality education and to ensure high standards in the educational system in Sierra Leone, he stated’. He apprised that their vision is to eradicate illiteracy in Sierra Leone by creating an educational platform that ensures the highest standards of an inclusive system.

Commenting on the background and purpose of the foundation, Mr. Ganawah stated that the foundation is built on the legacy of the late Mamie Mariama Ganawah of blessed memory, who was someone that had passion for high-quality education.

The Mamie Mariama Justice Ganawah Education Foundation (MaMJGEF) is raising awareness among members to take active roles in improving the nationwide problem of access to quality education and its importance in the country. The foundation’s purpose is to work with a mission of informing vulnerable communities about literacy issues in the country.

The impressive honor awarded by The Mamie Mariama Justice Ganawah Education Foundation (MaMJGEF) reflects the Bank’s outstanding performance and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) services to the people of Sierra Leone.

Dr. Gilpin’s Humanitarian Foundation (GEED) maintains similar ideologies and creeds to that of The Mamie Mariama Justice Ganawah Education Foundation (MaMJGEF) to consider the underprivileged and destitute.

RCBank – The Bank of choice!!!!!



Source link

/ By admin / Blog/ • • • • • • • / 0 Comments

QNET Wins 3 Awards at 2023 Marcomm Awards


QNET’s insightful YouTube video showcasing the impact of its financial literacy programme, Fingreen, has been honoured with three prestigious gold award at the 2023 MarCom Awards. Titled “FinGreen: Seeding Financial Literacy for a Brighter Future,” the video shines a light on QNET’s FinGreen initiative, a peer-to-peer educational program designed to improve financial understanding in underprivileged communities.

The video opens with a striking statistic: only one in three adults worldwide possess financial literacy. It then elaborates on how FinGreen contributes to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals by addressing inequality and promoting decent work and economic growth opportunities.

“FinGreen is tailored for women and youth in emerging economies, “says Malou Caluza, CEO of QNET. “Historically, women have had limited access to financial services compared to men. Although mobile banking and payment platforms have recently improved accessibility, many still lack the essential knowledge for making informed financial decisions.”



According to experts at the International Federation of Accountants, individuals who lack financial literacy are more vulnerable to fraud, less likely to save their money, more likely to have a large amount of debt, and are at a higher risk of bankruptcy.

Ms. Abass Bushira, a young woman leading an agricultural venture testified: “The FinGreen training felt like it was designed with me in mind. The curriculum covered topics such as budgeting, investment strategies, debt management, banking, financial planning and others.”

Launched initially in Turkey and Nigeria in 2022, and expanded to Ghana in 2023, FinGreen primarily targets women and youth in developing regions. The FinGreen programme partners with local experts to assess and identify underserved communities that could most benefit from greater education and inclusion. In Ghana, more than one thousand young people and women were trained in the cities of Accra and Ho.

According to Michael Andoh, a student of the Accra Technical University, “I have learnt how to achieve personal financial discipline and how to carefully prepare a simple budget for my personal expenses.”

Caluza believes the MarCom award underscores the video’s success in communicating FinGreen’s mission of individual empowerment for community upliftment.

The MarCom Awards is a premier international creative competition. FinGreen: Seeding Financial Literacy for a Brighter Future was one of 6,500 entries from more than 47 countries submitted this year. The video clinched a gold trophy for outstanding achievement.

Encouraged by FinGreen’s success in Nigeria, Ghana, and Turkey with more than 3200 people empowered, QNET will soon expand the programme to Morocco. Readers can view the winning video here or learn more about FinGreen here.

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. Established in 1998, QNET marks 25 years of making an impact around the world through its product offerings and e-commerce-powered business model, in 2023.

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.

To learn more about QNET and its mission of RYTHM – Raise Yourself To Help Mankind, please visit www.qnet.net.



Source link

/ By admin / Blog/ • • • • • • • • • • • • • / 0 Comments

Sierra Leoneans Express Concern Over Rejection of Five-Cent Coin by Bus Drivers, Businesses


Sierra Leoneans are voicing their concerns and demanding clarification on the functionality of the Sierra Leone 5 cent coin, commonly referred to as “five block.” Many citizens are experiencing difficulties as business establishments, including drivers and merchants, are increasingly refusing to accept these coins, asserting that they are impractical for transactions within the country.

In an interview conducted by Sieraloaded, citizens shared their frustrations and sought answers from the authorities. Susan Wright, a student at FBC University in Sierra Leone, expressed concern about drivers and their apprentices consistently rejecting the five-cent coins. She urged the Sierra Leone Bank Governor to provide an explanation regarding the significance of these coins and where they are intended to be used in the country.

On the other hand, Abu Sesay, a businessman operating in the central business district of Freetown, contested the claims made by customers. He argued that customers themselves are refusing to accept coins as change, leading to a situation where many business owners, in turn, are reluctant to collect these coins from their patrons.



This growing issue appears to be a two-sided problem, with both customers and businesses contributing to the reluctance surrounding the acceptance of five-cent coins. As a result, a considerable number of citizens find themselves grappling with a limited usability of these coins in everyday transactions.

The plea from citizens, especially students like Susan Wright, highlights the urgency for an official explanation from the Sierra Leone Bank Governor. Addressing the concerns raised by the public and providing guidance on the appropriate use of the five-cent coins could help alleviate the prevailing confusion and foster a smoother circulation of these coins in the economy.

The situation emphasizes the need for effective communication between monetary authorities and the public to ensure a harmonious flow of currency in daily transactions. As the discussions around the functionality of the five-cent coin continue, it remains to be seen how the authorities will respond to the citizens’ demands and work towards resolving the challenges surrounding the acceptance of these coins in Sierra Leone.



Source link

/ By admin / Blog/ • • • • • • • • • • / 0 Comments

Orange Fighting Fraud, Upholds Commitment to Its Zero Compliance to Corruption


In recent times, the Management Orange Mobile Money Finance SL Ltd issued a Disclaimer disassociating itself from Super Advertis an online business platform . According to the disclaimer, Orange Mobile Money Finance revealed that they are not in partnership with Super Advertis nor have any contractual dealings or in any way associated with the business/company.

The said disclaimer has left many Sierra Leoneans in shocked at home as it came like a lump in the throats of many who have invested their money on the Online Platform realizing that they have been defrauded by Super Advertis. The online business platform was reported to have defrauded Sierra Leoneans of a staggering 9 billion Leones.

Meanwhile, recent public notices by the Bank of Sierra Leone and the Financial Intelligence have vindicated Orange ‘s decision to disassociate itself from Super Advertis .



The Bank of Sierra Leone (BSL) issued a strong warning on the 5th January against the online entity called “SUPER ADVERTIS” that is illegally soliciting investments through mobile money platforms.

The BSL further emphasized that it has not licensed SUPER ADVERTIS for any financial activity, and engaging with them for investments poses a real risk to the public’s finances.

According to the BSL’s public notice, SUPER ADVERTIS appears to be enticing individuals to invest in a secretive financial scheme using mobile money platforms, which involves accepting deposits from the public. However, the BSL clarifies that “SUPER ADVERTIS” operates without the necessary license, making their operations illegal and potentially fraudulent.

The Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU), an institution dedicated to combating financial crime, also initiated an investigation, in collaboration with key stakeholders, into the suspected unlawful activities of Super Advertis.

This entity has been using various mobile money platforms in Sierra Leone to accumulate deposits from the public, falsely presenting itself as an investment opportunity. Super Advertis stands accused of engaging in unlicensed and unregulated financial services, particularly utilizing mobile money agents to amass supposed investment funds.

This alleged scam, resembling a “PONZI SCHEME,” operates by reimbursing existing investors from contributions made by new investors, rather than generating legitimate profits from a lawful business. Investors are misled into believing that profits stem from genuine business operations, while they actually originate from new investors’ deposits.

In a statement made available to Sierraloaded, Orange revealed the deceptive tactics employed by Super Advertis scammers. The company clarified that unauthorized agents were illicitly collecting funds on behalf of the fraudulent platform. Immediate action was taken upon discovering these deceitful transactions, with Orange Sierra Leone promptly blocking the accounts of these unauthorized agents.

The mobile company emphasized that these agents lacked the authorization to engage in such financial transactions, and their accounts were suspended to prevent further fraudulent activities.
“They were using our agents to collect funds on their behalf. These agents are not authorized to perform these types of transactions. When we got alert of these fraudulent transactions, we immediately blocked the accounts of these agents.” the mobile network company said.

Orange Sierra Leone took a proactive approach by reporting the issue to the Bank of Sierra Leone (BSL) and is now awaiting the next steps in the investigation.

According to Orange Sierra Leone, the blocked accounts do not show any clear indication that the embezzled funds are directly related to Super Advertis transactions. The company clarified that the primary reason for blocking the accounts was to curtail the involvement of the suspended agents. Interestingly, all attempts to reach these agents have been unsuccessful, adding another layer of mystery to the unfolding situation.

As consumers dash through investing their money online, fraudsters remain focused. Through its strong compliance measures, Orange was able to detect early signs of an uptick in fraud attempts on Sierra Leoneans.

Realizing the devastating impact of fraud as a trusted Partner, Orange gives everyone the keys to a responsible digital World. Trust is at the heart of Orange purpose and the company’s ethics and compliance approach contributes to this trust by promoting a culture of integrity with no room for corruption of any kind, which cannot be accepted.

Orange fraud and anti-corruption policy is proactive as the company is committed to conducting their business with transparency and integrity in Sierra Leone. Orange stringent anti-corruption policy applies to all employees, managers, and directors, as well as anyone who acts on their behalf.





Source link

/ By admin / Blog/ • • • • • • • • • • / 0 Comments

Super Advertis Makeni Manager Speaks on Their Mode of Operations


A viral video making the rounds on social media has revealed an interview with a man who identified himself as Professor Barrie, Manager of Super Advertis at Makeni City Plaza explaining the Company’s Mode of Operations.

Manager Barrie said in the Video that surfaced online that he had gone through the ranks of the company before attaining the position of being a Manager. He described the company as an Online Marketing Company serving as an Intermediary between the people and the Ecommerce- websites. He confirmed that there are many Ecommerce websites online like the Alibaba, Amazon and they as end users go to Purchase these goods.

“Super Advertis came as an intermediary to advert the goods of these Ecommerce websites by Clicking google will ranked it as search engine optimization. So Super Advertis develop a system where people will make money from their clicks.’ he said.



Responding to questions on the legality of their operations, Manager Barrie revealed that the Company has more offices in Sierra Leone adding that it is legally registered with the government of Sierra Leone. He confirmed in the said video that these are evidences to show the company is here to stay.

The newly introduced online business Company shut down its services to its customers on Tuesday 2nd January 2024 after the company said all of its funds were frozen by mobile money operator, Orange.

The company also directed its users and partners to go to Rakuten, which it stated is its other branch, to retrieve all their money. But shortly after, Rakuten denied any relationship with Super Advertis.

The development comes a few days after mobile network operator, Orange disassociated itself of any partnership with Super Advertis saying it does not have any contractual dealings or in any way associated with the business/company.

The Bank of Sierra Leone, in a public notice issued on January 5th, 2024, categorically stated that “Super Advertis” had not been granted a license to conduct any financial activity. The online-based entity was accused of enticing individuals to invest in a covert financial scheme through mobile money platforms. The Bank’s notice served as a stern warning to the public, urging them to refrain from engaging in any financial transactions with Super Advertis due to its illegal activities.

Subsequently, the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) announced on January 4th, 2024, that it was actively investigating Super Advertis for suspected unlawful activities, referring to it as a potential “Ponzi scheme.” The FIU highlighted the collaboration with mobile money service providers, including Orange Money, in restricting access to the suspected fraudsters’ accounts and cooperating with relevant authorities in ongoing investigations.



Source link

/ By admin / Blog/ • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • / 0 Comments

Notification for Public Disclosure on the Environmental Social Health Impact Assessment Report for Long Lush (SL) Ltd in Bambatok and Senehum Villages Upper Banta and Bagruwa Chiefdoms Respectively, Moyamba district, Southern Sierra Leone.


This advert serves to notify interested and/or affected persons/parties of the Environmental Social Health Impact Assessment was conducted for the Long Lush (SL) LTD, Freetown Sierra Leone.

In conformity with the Sierra Leone Environmental Protection Agency Act 2008, the LONG LUSH (SL) LTD Project needs to be planned and designed in a manner that minimizes potential negative social and environmental impacts.

This is expected to be achieved through the ESHIA Process that was undertaken by Geomining Consultancy (SL) Ltd.



The Environmental Social Health Impact Assessment (ESHIA) report has been presented to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA-SL) to be presented to the affected and interested stakeholders during the public disclosure processes for discussion.

Geomining Consultancy, EPA – SL and Long Lush Group (SL) Ltd, propose to conduct stakeholder engagement process at the following locations and dates:
Babatok Village, Upper Banta Chiefdom, Moyamba District on 12th January 2024

Senuhun Village, Bagruwa Chiefdom, Moyamba District on 13th January 2024

The report is now available for reference purposes at any time at the following locations:

The Environmental Protection Agency Sierra Leone (EPA-SL) office, 92 Dundas street, Brookfield, Freetown;

Long Lush (SL) Ltd, 65 Siaka Steven Street Freetown

Geomining Consultancy at 33 Victoria Street Freetown.

Stakeholders and/or interested person/parties are invited to participate in the consultation process for the Public Disclosure processes at the above-mentioned locations.

Your input and any issues or insights that you may have regarding the projects will be valuable.

Comments can be submitted verbally at the Stakeholder’s workshop or written format. Written comments must be sent to the following contacts below.

We look forward to your participation in the consultation and disclosure process.



Source link

/ By admin / Blog/ • • • • • • • • • • • • / 0 Comments

Bank of Sierra Leone Warns of Illegal Super Advertis Investment Scheme


The Bank of Sierra Leone (BSL) issued a strong warning today against an online entity called “SUPER ADVERTIS” that is illegally soliciting investments through mobile money platforms.

The BSL emphasized that it has not licensed SUPER ADVERTIS for any financial activity, and engaging with them for investments poses a real risk to the public’s finances.

According to the BSL’s public notice, SUPER ADVERTIS appears to be enticing individuals to invest in a secretive financial scheme using mobile money platforms, which involves accepting deposits from the public. However, the BSL clarifies that “SUPER ADVERTIS” operates without the necessary license, making their operations illegal and potentially fraudulent.



The BSL urged the public to exercise extreme caution and refrain from any financial transactions with SUPER ADVERTIS. To ensure their safety, the BSL advised everyone to verify the presence of a valid BSL-issued license displayed in the premises of any financial institution before engaging in any transaction.

The BSL’s warning extends to all similar unlicensed businesses operating in Sierra Leone. The notice stresses that such illegal schemes pose a significant threat to the stability and safety of the nation’s financial system.

This timely intervention by the BSL highlights the growing concern over unregulated financial activities, particularly those targeting mobile money users. As mobile money transactions become increasingly popular, ensuring user protection and preventing fraudulent schemes remains a crucial challenge for financial authorities across Africa.

The BSL’s public notice serves as a wake-up call for Sierra Leoneans, urging them to prioritize caution and due diligence when considering any investment opportunity, especially if it involves mobile money or operates outside the official financial system.



Source link

/ By admin / Blog/ • • • • • • • • • • • / 0 Comments

Orange Sierra Leone Exposes Scam Involving Super Advertis


Orange Sierra Leone, a leading mobile company in Sierra Leone has continued to disassociate itself from the fraudulent activities of Super Advertis, an online business platform reported to have defrauded Sierra Leoneans of a staggering 9 billion Leones.

In a statement made available to Sierraloaded, Orange revealed the deceptive tactics employed by Super Advertis scammers. The company clarified that unauthorized agents were illicitly collecting funds on behalf of the fraudulent platform. Immediate action was taken upon discovering these deceitful transactions, with Orange Sierra Leone promptly blocking the accounts of these unauthorized agents.

The mobile company emphasized that these agents lacked the authorization to engage in such financial transactions, and their accounts were suspended to prevent further fraudulent activities.



“They were using our agents to collect funds on their behalf. These agents are not authorised to perform these type of transactions. When we got alert of these fraudulent transactions we immediately blocked the accounts of these agents.” the mobile network company said.

Orange Sierra Leone has taken a proactive approach by reporting the issue to the Bank of Sierra Leone (BSL) and is now awaiting the next steps in the investigation.

According to Orange Sierra Leone, the blocked accounts do not show any clear indication that the embezzled funds are directly related to Super Advertis transactions. The company clarified that the primary reason for blocking the accounts was to curtail the involvement of the suspended agents. Interestingly, all attempts to reach these agents have been unsuccessful, adding another layer of mystery to the unfolding situation.

The company’s message serves as a cautionary note to its partners and the general public, urging them to remain vigilant and exercise caution when dealing with financial transactions related to Super Advertis.

Orange Sierra Leone’s commitment to transparency and swift action in response to the fraudulent activities demonstrates its dedication to protecting its partners and customers from potential scams.

As the investigation unfolds, Sierra Leoneans are anxiously awaiting updates from both Orange Sierra Leone and the Bank of Sierra Leone, hoping for justice to be served against those responsible for this significant financial fraud.



Source link