Africell Drives Digital Inclusion at 2025 Sierra Leone Innovates Summit


Africell Sierra Leone has once again positioned itself at the forefront of the nation’s digital revolution, playing a leading role in the 2025 Sierra Leone Innovates Digital Government Summit held in Freetown.

Organized by the Ministry of Communication, Technology, and Innovation (MoCTI), the high-level summit brought together government officials, private sector stakeholders, youth innovators, and international partners to explore pathways for a smarter, more inclusive digital future.

Africell, one of the summit’s main sponsors, was not just a financial partner but an active contributor to its vision and success. The company’s Chief Operating Officer, Malek El Koussa, praised the event’s organization and the government’s commitment to pushing the digital agenda.

“This year’s summit has truly raised the bar,” El Koussa stated. “We are proud to be a part of this moment where the President’s directives have clearly defined the digital vision of Sierra Leone. It’s now our shared responsibility both public institutions and private enterprises to align with that vision and deliver innovation that touches real lives.”

At its vibrant exhibition booth, Africell showcased a suite of advanced technologies, many of which are aimed at bridging the digital divide across Sierra Leone. Among the highlights was the introduction of AI EVA, a voice-powered artificial intelligence service capable of responding to verbal queries in local languages ideal for users without smartphones or internet access. Tailored for farmers, traders, students, and underserved populations, AI EVA supports digital inclusion in rural and low-literacy communities.

Africell also exhibit its AfriGBT, a localized version of the popular ChatGPT model, adapted to work offline and on basic devices. Both tools are designed to democratize access to knowledge and education through artificial intelligence.

“We believe that the future belongs to the youth and to the dreamers,” El Koussa added. “Platforms like this summit give them the opportunity to see how technology can truly shape their destiny.”

Beyond AI, Africell spotlighted its technological infrastructure, including 5G routers, Samsung smart devices, and its increasingly popular Star Fiber home internet bundles. The company is also the authorized distributor for Samsung in Sierra Leone, making high-quality devices more accessible to Sierra Leoneans.

In the financial sector, Africell demonstrated the capabilities of its Afrimoney platform, now offering seamless international remittance services. With digital finance becoming an integral part of daily life, Africell is expanding services to remote and unbanked communities, strengthening its position as a leader in financial technology.

In a strong message to Sierra Leone’s youth and broader public, El Koussa emphasized the urgency of adapting to technological change.

“Change is inevitable. We once moved from analog phones to smartphones now we are moving from manual to digital systems,” he said. “If you resist technology, it will leave you behind. If you embrace it, it will uplift you.”

The summit highlighted the vital role that private sector companies like Africell play in achieving the government’s national digital transformation goals. With President Julius Maada Bio’s administration pushing for innovation-driven governance, Africell’s contributions reaffirm its position as not just a telecom provider but a true partner in progress.




Source link

Interswitch Sets a New Pulse in West African Finance


In the rhythm of Sierra Leone’s evolving financial system, a new beat is beginning to emerge; steady, deliberate, and increasingly digital. That rhythm will quicken this week as Interswitch, one of Africa’s leading integrated payments and digital commerce companies, convenes key stakeholders in New Brookfields Hotel, Jomo Kenyatta Road, Freetown for the second edition of its Fintech Forum, themed “Access, Inclusion and Growth – Deepening Digital Payments in Sierra Leone.”

Set to take place on June 5, 2025, the event will bring together a cross section of the country’s financial services ecosystem including banks, fintech startups, regulators, microfinance institutions, mobile money operators, and members of the media, for a conversation that transcends product launches and panel discussions. It aims to spark collective action toward a more financially inclusive Sierra Leone.

At the heart of this gathering lies a shared imperative — to foster a more inclusive economy by expanding formal financial access to a broader segment of Sierra Leone’s population. While meaningful progress is underway, many still navigate daily life without reliable access to financial services. Access remains uneven, infrastructure is still evolving, and in many rural communities, cash continues to dominate everyday transactions. Bridging this gap requires collaborative effort, and that’s precisely what this forum seeks to advance.

Events like the Interswitch Fintech Forum matter because they bring together those actively working to solve these challenges. More than just a platform for discussion, the forum will serve as a catalyst for meaningful action and tangible progress.

Interswitch’s entry into the Sierra Leonean market is timely. With over two decades of experience driving Africa’s digital payments evolution, the company’s expansion signals a broader shift in how regional players are approaching scale, access, and long-term presence. While mobile wallets and digital platforms continue to proliferate across the continent, the real challenge lies in ensuring these tools are not only available but usable, trusted, and accessible, particularly in underserved communities where traditional banking infrastructure is limited or non-existent.

A key highlight of the event will be a live demonstration of Interswitch’s Card Issuance Solution and the Agency Banking solution. For those unfamiliar with the model, agency banking essentially brings banking closer to the people through local agents equipped with tech-enabled tools. These agents enable customers to carry out essential financial services such as withdrawals, deposits, bill payments, and transfers, without having to travel long distances to a physical bank branch. In markets where agency banking has gained traction, it has helped in demystifying financial systems, offering human touchpoints that ease the transition into formal digital finance.

Technology is not the only reason this forum stands out; equally significant is the regulatory environment in which it is unfolding. The Bank of Sierra Leone has articulated a clear vision, one that recognises digital financial services as essential to the country’s economic resilience. In expressing its willingness to collaborate with credible private-sector stakeholders, the Central Bank is not only opening the door to innovation but also emphasising the importance of stability and accountability. This clarity provides fintech players with the confidence to explore new solutions, while setting a high standard for sustainable, responsible growth.

As Sierra Leone advances its digital financial agenda, the upcoming Interswitch Fintech Forum highlights the importance of cross-sector collaboration in driving sustainable impact. For Interswitch, the event signals more than market penetration and expansion, it affirms a strategic commitment to supporting the country’s financial transformation journey. By bringing together key players across the ecosystem, the forum is poised to set the stage for long-term partnerships, scalable innovation, and inclusive growth, all critical pillars for building a resilient, future-ready financial landscape.




Source link

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.




Source link

QNET Denounces the Misuse of its Name and Product and Urges Media to be Circumspect


QNET, an international lifestyle and wellness direct selling company has noted, with deep concerns, several media publications on the arrest of 42 individuals in the Hastings area of Eastern Freetown for fraud and financial crimes.

The report allegedly and unfortunately linked the arrested persons to QNET and described the company with unsavoury words. QNET continues to urge journalists and media houses to be prudent in hastily associating arrested persons to the company. Many people arrested in similar fashion in the past end up not associated with QNET in any way during investigations.

QNET urgently raises concerns about the activities of unscrupulous persons who falsely present themselves as representatives of the company to commit fraud, causing significant harm to victims who were misled by false promises of oversea visa, employment opportunities and get-rich-quick lies. QNET is not associated with these individuals and these fake promises.

Biram Fall, Regional General Manager for Sub-Saharan Africa, expressed concerns over the exploitation of vulnerable individuals and strongly condemned the deliberate misuse of the QNET brand. He emphasized: “It is disheartening that some individuals continue to take undue advantage of innocent people to perpetuate fraud. These people often claim they are from QNET when they are not. We are actively working with law enforcement and intensifying efforts in public education, enforcement, and transparency. Our primary objective is to ensure that QNET is seen in its truest form, as a business dedicated to enhancing the lifestyle and wellness of people around the world.”

QNET is a legitimate lifestyle and wellness company with a global presence, operating through an e-commerce-based direct selling model. We do not offer job placements, visa opportunities, or require travel to participate in our business. Anyone making such claims is acting fraudulently and must be reported.

QNET will soon launch the “QNET Against Scams” campaign in Sierra Leone to raise more awareness and educate the public about fraud schemes that misuse our name. The campaign will consolidate the company’s current efforts of disseminating the “Truth about QNET” through media publications and stakeholder engagements with regulatory and security agencies.

In addition to public awareness, QNET has taken strong internal disciplinary action against those found violating the company’s policies and ethical marketing practices. In 2024, we issued 298 disciplinary sanctions, 210 suspensions and 88 terminations. As of May 2025, we have already taken 78 actions, including 48 suspensions and 30 terminations. This clearly demonstrates our zero-tolerance approach to unethical behavior.

We provide safe reporting channels via WhatsApp (+233 2566 30005) and email ([email protected]) and urge the public to remain vigilant and always verify the legitimacy of any opportunity claiming affiliation with QNET. Learn more at 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




Source link

No Price Increase New TikTok Bundle Introduced to Enhance Customer Experience


In response to recent public concerns regarding changes in data bundle offerings, Africell Sierra Leone has officially clarified that no data prices have been increased, and that all current prices remain unchanged. According to the Communications Manager, Kamanda, the company has instead introduced a new TikTok bundle to give subscribers more flexible and entertaining data options.

The Manager further emphasized that while the 1Mbps weekly bundle was discontinued, the daily 1Mbps plan has been retained, and other bundles have remained untouched in both pricing and quality. “There has been no price increase. We have only realigned some packages to reflect customer preferences and usage trends. Our new TikTok bundle is a direct response to the growing demand for platform-specific data access,” he stated.

The explanation comes amidst reports circulating online and on social media accusing major telecom operation.




Source link

With May 18, 2025 Deadline Approaching, Applicants Urged to Apply for Orange Social Venture Prize and Win Exciting Prizes


The 18th May 2025 marks the end of the application process for the 7th edition of the Orange Social Venture Prize (OSVP) in Sierra Leone, marking its 15th edition across Africa and the Middle East.

The competition has gathered momentum as applications are coming in droves. Those that are yet to send in their application are encouraged to apply on or before the 18th May 2025.

Orange Social Venture Price is an undeniable catalyst for progress on technological and social innovation with the view of supporting startups to attain their full potential with the Competition supporting a solid, viable business proposition that meets current and future social and environmental needs.

The OSVP competition invites applicants from 17 Orange affiliates across Africa and the Middle East, including Sierra Leone, to submit their applications for both the National and International competition.

Interested individuals must submit their applications by May 18th, 2025. The registration portal/link is available at: https://poesam.orange.com/en/

while further information about the OSVP can be accessed at:

https://www.orange.com/en/osvp

Since its inception in 2019, the OSVP has awarded innovative projects in fields such as education, healthcare, e-commerce and agriculture, with a focus on digital solutions that contribute to sustainable development goals. How the Competition plays out.

The competition is divided into two stages:

  1. The National Stage:

Applications for the National and Women’s competition will be accepted from 11th March – 18th May 2025. At the end of this application phase, a national pitch competition will be held in August 2025 to determine the winners of the National and Women’s categories. The winners will receive the following prizes:

  1. The International Stage:

The winners from the National and Women’s categories in each of the 17 Orange affiliates will automatically be enrolled into the international phase. After evaluation, 10 finalists will be selected. A final jury, consisting of African tech influencers, will determine the top three winners of the OSVP International Grand Prize, which will be awarded in October/November 2025.

International Women’s Prize:

In line with Orange’s commitment to gender equality, an International Women’s Prize will be awarded for the fifth consecutive year. This prize will recognize a woman who offers a technological solution that improves the living conditions of women, such as enhancing women’s independence, job creation, gender data collection and digital or financial inclusion.

The international and women’s competition winners 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 the Women’s International Winner.

As the OSVP team is currently touring all major universities in the Country to talk about the fantastic opportunity it brings, OSVP competition serves as an important platform for social entrepreneurship, technological innovation, and the sustainable development of Africa and the




Source link

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.




Source link

Orange Money and AMJAM Launch KwikMoni Loan Service to Empower Small Businesses in Sierra Leone


Orange Mobile Finance SL Ltd (OMFSL) and AMJAM & Associates Ltd have introduced a groundbreaking financial initiative aimed at boosting small businesses across Sierra Leone.

The KwikMoni Loan Service, officially launched on Monday, offers digital microloans to Orange Money subscribers, agents, and merchants, providing them with quick access to credit.

The launch event, held on 5th May 2025, at the OMFSL head office, drew key stakeholders, including executives from OMFSL, representatives from AMJAM, financial institution delegates, Orange Money partners, and members of the press. The atmosphere was vibrant with optimism as industry leaders highlighted the potential of KwikMoni to transform financial inclusion and support entrepreneurship.

A Digital Solution for Financial Empowerment

KwikMoni is designed as a fast, secure, and entirely digital loan service. It enable users to borrow money directly from AMJAM with funds deposited into their OM wallets. Developed by AMJAM, the service leverages a data-driven scoring model to assess eligibility, offering loan amounts ranging from NLe1,000 to NLe5,000 for agents and merchants, and up to NLe1,000 for subscribers.

Loans are available 24/7, with repayment periods of 7 days for agents and 30 days for merchants and subscribers. The initiative is tailored to meet liquidity challenges faced by small business owners, helping them manage stock, cover short-term expenses, and maintain cash flow.

Voices from the Leadership

During the event, Sekou Amadu Bah, Board Chairman of OMFSL, underscored the strategic importance of KwikMoni:

“We are breaking down barriers that have kept too many out of formal credit systems. KwikMoni is not just a service, it’s an opportunity for growth and financial empowerment.”

David Samba Mansaray, CEO of Orange Mobile Finance SL Ltd, emphasized KwikMoni’s potential to drive economic resilience:

“KwikMoni is more than just a loan, it’s a tool for empowerment. Whether you’re a market woman, taxi driver, or small shop owner, this service grants you immediate access to working capital, helping you grow your business and secure your livelihood.”

Marju Jalloh, CCO of AMJAM, representing the CEO, highlighted the partnership between AMJAM and OMFSL:

“This collaboration showcases the transformative potential of technology. KwikMoni embodies trust, inclusion, and innovative finance values central to our commitment to the community.”

Who Can Benefit from KwikMoni?

KwikMoni is accessible to:

  • Fully registered Orange Money subscribers
  • Orange Money merchants
  • Orange Money agents

Eligibility is based on transaction consistency and usage patterns on the Orange Money platform. To apply, users simply dial:

  • #144*7# for Subscribers
  • #145*9#, select option 12 for Agents
  • #146*9# for Merchants

Empowering the Informal Economy

The introduction of KwikMoni is expected to significantly impact the informal sector, which forms a large part of Sierra Leone’s business landscape. By providing easy and immediate access to credit, the service helps bridge the financing gap that many small enterprises face.

Business owners, including traders, Keke riders, and kiosk operators, no longer need to rely on informal borrowing. The digital nature of KwikMoni means they can secure loans without leaving their workplace—no paperwork, no collateral, and no queues.

Moving Forward

KwikMoni marks the latest in a series of financial innovations from OMFSL and AMJAM, focused on expanding digital financial services to underserved communities. With a growing user base exceeding 2 million, the companies remain committed to fostering economic resilience through accessible and innovative solutions.

For more information, customers are encouraged to contact Orange Money Customer Service, dialling: 111.

This launch marks a pivotal step in Sierra Leone’s journey towards inclusive financial services, offering small businesses a reliable way to access credit and strengthen their economic stability.

 




Source link

GTBank Sierra Leone Dismisses Fake Social Media Posts of Closure


Guaranty Trust Bank SL Ltd (GTBank) has issued a strong rebuttal against a “spurious” social media post circulating online.

The post alleges that the Bank of Sierra Leone (BSL) is poised to shut down GTBank’s operations due to alleged falsification of accounts and conspiracy.

In a notice released today, May 6, 2025, the Bank categorically stated that the claim is “completely false and is designed to bring the image of the Bank and its officers to disrepute.”

GTBank emphasized that while it would not engage in public disputes with every media report, it “will not hesitate to pursue legal action for defamation against our brand or for inaccurate reporting.”

The Bank moved to reassure the public of its unwavering commitment to ethical practices. As a “industry leader with more than twenty years of operation in this esteemed country,” GTBank stated it “adhere[s] to strong corporate governance and strictly comply[ies] with both national laws and the policies set forth by our regulators,” including the BSL.

GTBank strongly urged its customers and the general public to “completely disregard this unfounded allegation.” The Bank reiterated its commitment to “maintaining the highest ethical standards and will never partake in any unethical practices.”

The notice concluded with a message of gratitude to the public for their “continued support and trust.”

The notice was issued by Corporate Communications of Guaranty Trust Bank SL Ltd on May 6, 2025.




Source link

Africell Offers 3-Bedroom House in New Jubilee Jombo Promotion


Africell Sierra Leone, in a partnership with Taf Salone, officially launched the highly anticipated Jubilee Jombo Promotion on Wednesday, April 23, 2025.

The event, held at the Taf Salone Micro City in Tokeh, marked a celebratory union of two companies dedicated to transforming lives through innovation, connectivity, and development.

The centerpiece of the promotion is a game-changing reward: one lucky subscriber will win a fully furnished 3-bedroom flat, symbolizing the campaign’s theme of turning loyalty into life-altering opportunity.

In addition to the ultimate grand prize, the promotion also offers a series of exciting daily and weekly prizes including cash, smart phones, mini-generators, and motorcycles (okadas).

To enter, subscribers must simply recharge their phones with a minimum of NLe 25. And for those using Afrimoney the stakes are even higher, recharging via Afrimoney using the *161# code doubles the chances of winning.

Speaking at the launch, Africell Sierra Leone CEO Shadi Gerjawi highlighted the significance of the campaign in relation to Africell’s 20th anniversary in Sierra Leone and 25 years across Africa.

“This is not just the unveiling of a campaign. It is a celebration of history, resilience, and meaningful service,” the CEO said. “We asked ourselves how to say thank you in a way that’s both memorable and meaningful. Jubilee Jombo is our answer, an expression of appreciation to every teacher, trader, student, nurse, and everyday Sierra Leonean who has been with us on this journey.”

He underscored Africell’s mission to offer more than just telecommunications, calling the company a “development partner” dedicated to real impact. Gerjawi reaffirmed the company’s commitment to transparency, stating all draws would be conducted live, with winners announced on radio, television, and social media.

Anita Sey, the General Manager of Taf Salone, expressed optimism about the partnership and its potential to change lives.

“This collaboration is about more than business,” she said. “It’s about empowering people with the hope of owning a home. Taf Salone is on a mission to build one million homes across Africa, and this partnership with Africell aligns perfectly with that goal.”

She emphasized that the Jubilee Jombo promotion brings together two powerful ideas: connectivity and home ownership. “Together, we’re creating spaces where individuals can thrive, and Africell helps connect those dreams to reality.”

Martinson Obeng-Agyei, CEO of Afrimoney, took the opportunity to reflect on the evolution of basic human needs in the digital era. He explained that in addition to food, clothing, and shelter, connectivity has now become a crucial pillar of daily life.

“The internet is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity for education, communication, and commerce,” he said. “By using Afrimoney to recharge, subscribers not only enhance their financial freedom, but they also stand a chance to become landlords. It’s a win-win.”

Obeng-Agyei encouraged participants to take full advantage of the promotion by using Afrimoney for airtime purchases, highlighting how digital tools are helping redefine access and opportunity across Sierra Leone.

The Jubilee Jombo draws will air every weekday, Monday to Friday at 6:30 PM on AYV TV, AfriRadio 105.3 FM, the Africell Facebook page, and several major radio stations across the country.

This major promotion comes as both Africell and Taf Salone celebrate significant milestones. Africell’s 25 years of operations in Africa and Taf Africa Global’s 35-year legacy on the continent.

The Jubilee Jombo campaign reflects a shared commitment to gratitude, growth, and the continued upliftment of Sierra Leonean communities.




Source link