By Abu Bakarr Bangura
On January 22, 2025, the cities of Bo and Kenema buzzed with excitement as the Bank of Sierra Leone organized a vibrant float parade to promote the National Switch SAPS (Salone Payment Switch) Instant Payment System. This event was part of the Bank’s ongoing initiative to educate the public about the advantages of seamless fund transfers across all payment platforms in the country.
The parade showcased a collaboration of banks and Mobile Money Operators (MMOs) from both cities, highlighting the institutional support for the SAPS system. As a key component of the National Switch initiative, SAPS aims to make instant payments accessible to everyone, facilitating quick and efficient transfers between different banks and payment platforms.
Notable attendees included Dr. Ibrahim Stevens, Governor of the Bank of Sierra Leone, along with several Board members, underscoring the significance of the SAPS Instant Payment phase. This initiative is poised to transform Sierra Leone’s financial landscape by simplifying transactions and enhancing access to digital payment solutions nationwide.
The Instant Payment System, central to the National Switch initiative, enables seamless money transfers for Sierra Leoneans across various platforms, promoting financial inclusion and granting users greater control over their finances. This development is expected to contribute significantly to the country’s economic growth.
The float parade not only entertained but also served as an educational platform, engaging the public on the benefits of instant payments and encouraging wider adoption of the SAPS system. As Sierra Leone increasingly embraces digital payment solutions, the Bank of Sierra Leone’s proactive efforts in raising awareness are crucial for building a more inclusive and modern financial infrastructure.
The SAPS Instant Payment system represents a vital step in Sierra Leone’s journey toward modernizing its financial services, with events like the float parade accelerating its nationwide acceptance.
