Sierra Leone to Conduct 2025 Population and Housing Census, Announces President Bio

September 11, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, during a national address on Monday, September 9, 2024, officially announced the commencement of Sierra Leone’s 2025 Population and Housing Census.

The announcement follows the successful laying of Statutory Instrument No. 8 of 2024 before Parliament on August 8, 2024. This Statutory Instrument, which governs the Census process, became effective on August 29, 2024, marking the official start of preparations for the decennial count.

In his address, President Bio confirmed that the nationwide Census will be conducted from December 2 to December 15, 2025. He designated the night of December 1, 2025, as Census Night, setting the stage for this pivotal national event.

“With the Census calendar in mind, I am delighted to announce that my government will oversee the Population and Housing Census in 2025,” President Bio stated. He noted that the data gathered will be vital for guiding the implementation of the 2024–2030 Medium Term National Development Plan and advancing the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The President recalled the 2021 Mid-Term Population and Housing Census, which was aimed at preparing for the forthcoming decennial Census. The 2025 Census will build on this groundwork by utilizing advanced methodologies such as Computer-Assisted Personal Interviews (CAPI).

Sierra Leone has a rich history of conducting Censuses, with records dating back to 1802 and modern counts in 1963, 1974, 1985, 2004, and 2015. President Bio highlighted that the upcoming Census will continue this legacy and provide crucial baseline data to assess development progress and challenges.

“My government is committed to dedicating substantial financial and logistical resources to this Census,” President Bio affirmed. He also announced that Statistics Sierra Leone will manage and oversee the Census process, with support from international partners including the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), and the United States Census Bureau through USAID.

President Bio urged all Sierra Leoneans to cooperate fully with the Census process and expressed confidence in its success. “I thank you, and may God bless the Republic of Sierra Leone,” he concluded.

The 2025 Population and Housing Census is set to provide a comprehensive and up-to-date demographic snapshot, crucial for shaping Sierra Leone’s future development policies and strategies.

Urging Public Support for 56 Pending Cases… Sick Pikin Project Sends Three Children to India for Life-Saving Surgeries

September 11, 2024

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

At a Press Conference held on 10th September 2024 at Caritas Office in Kingtom, the Sick Pikin Project announced its latest milestone: three children, Calab Julian Sewah, Isatu Isha Kamara and Mabinty Paulina Bangura, will be departing for India today, 11th September, 2024, to undergo life-saving surgeries in New Delhi.

The Sick Pikin Project, which has been dedicated to raising funds for sick, vulnerable children since its inception, has continued its mission to support families unable to afford crucial medical treatments for their children. Since its establishment, the Project has raised funds for over 306 cases, successfully arranging 123 surgeries overseas and 183 locally.

Despite these achievements, the organization continues to face growing demand, with a large number of desperate families seeking help daily. As of 10th September, 56 more cases of children in urgent need of surgery remain pending due to lack of funds.

Ishmeal Alfred Charles, Co-founder of the Sick Pikin Project, addressed the challenges during the Press Conference.

He reaffirmed the Project’s unwavering commitment to helping children, regardless of their background, religion or political affiliation. “We believe in transparency and accountability,” he stated. “Every donor can track their contributions and see exactly where the money goes. We owe it to the children and their families to be honest in our work.”

He expressed deep gratitude to the individuals, organizations and anonymous donors who have supported the Project, singling out the Bank of Sierra Leone for its continued backing. However, he also highlighted the hurdles the organization faces, especially in securing sufficient funds for surgeries and travel expenses. “The work we do wouldn’t be possible without the dedicated support of volunteers and contributors, both in Sierra Leone and abroad,” he said.

One of the parents, Mary Stevens Sewah, whose son Calab is one of the children departing for surgery in India, gave an emotional statement at the Press Conference. Overcome with gratitude, she recounted the difficult journey she faced in trying to find help for her son.

“I have tried every way to get help for my son’s condition,” she shared. “I knocked on doors, reached out to relatives and even went to local organizations, but no one was willing to help, not even family members. I was left in despair, thinking there was no hope. But then the Sick Pikin Project came into our lives and they gave us hope again. They are doing such a wonderful job and I thank them from the bottom of my heart for saving my son’s life.”

The Sick Pikin Project remains dedicated to its mission, but the ever-growing number of cases serves as a reminder of the continued need for public support.

As the three children and their families depart for their journey to India, the organization calls on the public, private donors and institutions to help ensure that more lives can be saved.

Information Minister Graduates from Tutu Leadership Fellowship -Energized to Serve Sierra Leone

September 11, 2024

By Amin Kef Sesay

Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, has successfully completed the prestigious Archbishop Tutu Leadership Fellowship, a highly competitive and sought-after program on the African continent. Spanning six months, the Fellowship is administered by the African Leadership Institute and is renowned for its rigorous intellectual engagement and development of emerging African leaders.

The program, which adopts an Oxford-style tutorial approach, com bines theoretical learning with practical applications, experiential education and the sharing of experiences from accomplished leaders. This blend of theory and practice is designed to equip participants with the tools to effect positive change across Africa.

The Information Minister, Chernor Bah, reflecting on his experience, noted that the fellowship, which began in Cape Town and concluded in London, has both challenged and reinvigorated him in his role as a leader. “My battery has been more than recharged—it’s been repurposed and regenerated,” he stated on his Facebook page. He expressed his readiness to return to his ministerial duties with renewed energy, declaring, “I am—as one of the fellows put it—my ancestors’ wildest dreams. And I’m ready to live the dream by doing what I have been tasked to do—as best as I can!”

This latest milestone marks another chapter in Minister Chernor Bah’s lifelong journey of success, from leading social change movements as a young activist to becoming a key member of Sierra Leone’s youthful cabinet under the leadership of President Julius Maada Bio. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a deep commitment to public service and he credits President Bio for playing a pivotal role in this latest achievement.

“It has been an absolute honour to work for a leader like President Julius Maada Bio, who not only supported me in embarking on this journey but also inspired me throughout,” Chernor Bah remarked, expressing gratitude for the President’s encouragement.

In his capacity as Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah is playing a vital role in advancing President Bio’s vision of expanding civic engagement and fostering dialogue between the Government and the people of Sierra Leone. His recent accomplishment at the Tutu Fellowship further strengthens his resolve to contribute to the nation’s progress and development.

Intimacy 2024 Crusade: Apostle Johnson Suleman Storms Lungi, Prays for Sierra Leone

September 9, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a powerful spiritual event that left attendees in awe, Nigerian televangelist and General Overseer of Omega Fire Ministries, Apostle Johnson Suleman, stormed Lungi, Sierra Leone, for the highly anticipated “Intimacy 2024 Crusade”. The crusade, which took place on September 3rd and 4th, 2024, at the Central Field on Old Airport Road, Lungi, drew thousands of participants from across the nation and neighboring countries, all seeking spiritual revival, healing and divine intervention.

Upon his arrival in Sierra Leone on September 2nd, Apostle Suleman was warmly received by Sierra Leone’s President, His Excellency Julius Maada Bio and First Lady, Fatima Maada Bio. In a jubilant and hopeful atmosphere, the first family expressed their deep appreciation for the cleric’s visit. President Bio highlighted the significance of spiritual guidance in national peace and development, while First Lady Fatima Maada Bio described Apostle Suleman’s presence as a “divine blessing” for Sierra Leone.

The two-day crusade, themed: “Our Tradition Does Not Allow It” on Day 1 and “Break That Protocol of Multiplication” on Day 2, was a transformative spiritual revival, where Apostle Suleman preached the gospel with passion and authority. The atmosphere at the Central Field was electric as worshippers gathered in anticipation of God’s healing power. Morning and evening sessions were filled with moments of supernatural healings, deliverance and testimonies of miraculous breakthroughs.

In his powerful sermons, Apostle Suleman declared that the favor of God was upon the lives of the people of Sierra Leone. “I don’t know who you are or where you are, but the favor of God is coming into your life,” he proclaimed during one of his sessions. He also emphasized that “The Gospel must be preached, even in the rain. JESUS is LORD!” This declaration was met with overwhelming responses from the crowd as the rain fell during the crusade, yet the faith of attendees remained unwavering.

Social media platforms buzzed with posts and testimonies, as attendees shared their experiences of healing, deliverance and transformation. One participant described the atmosphere as “charged with the presence of God,” while others expressed their gratitude for the diverse miracles they witnessed.

The event left a lasting spiritual impact on Sierra Leone, with numerous testimonies of divine healing and deliverance. Attendees spoke of broken chains, restored health and newfound hope, all of which they attributed to the powerful move of God through Apostle Suleman’s ministry. Many attendees left with renewed faith, inspired by the diverse miracles and the overwhelming demonstration of God’s love and power.

Beyond the spiritual aspect of the event, Apostle Suleman’s visit also included strategic discussions with President Bio on a variety of issues.

The Intimacy 2024 Crusade in Lungi was not just a spiritual event but a testament to the power of faith, unity and leadership. The event highlighted Apostle Suleman’s global evangelism mission and his dedication to spreading the gospel through healing, deliverance and personal transformation. Sierra Leone’s Christian community, along with its leadership, showed enthusiastic support, acknowledging the lasting spiritual legacy this crusade would leave behind.

As attendees departed the crusade grounds, many carried with them not only testimonies of divine encounters but also a renewed sense of purpose and faith, inspired by the life-changing experiences they had witnessed. Apostle Johnson Suleman’s ministry continues to be a source of hope and empowerment for many, leaving an indelible mark on the spiritual landscape of Sierra Leone.

Key Takeaways from President Bio’s Visit to China for the 2024 FOCAC Summit

September 9, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Sierra Leone’s President, Dr. Julius Maada Bio, concluded a highly successful visit to China for the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). During this summit, a series of crucial agreements were secured, marking significant strides in Sierra Leone’s economic and developmental landscape. The visit not only strengthened bilateral ties between Sierra Leone and China but also positioned Sierra Leone to benefit from China’s increased financial commitment to Africa.

Here are the major takeaways from President Bio’s visit:

USD $50 Billion Financial Support for African Countries

One of the most significant outcomes of the 2024 FOCAC summit was the announcement by Chinese President, Xi Jinping, of a USD $50 billion financial package for African countries over the next three years. This pledge marks a USD $20 billion increase from the previous FOCAC summit in Dakar, Senegal. The funding will be directed towards infrastructure, technology and development projects across the continent, with Sierra Leone poised to benefit from this substantial boost in financial support.

In a social media post following his meeting with President Xi, President Bio stated: “My precursory meeting to FOCAC 2024 with President Xi Jinping was high-yielding. We agreed on cooperation on the key goals of our Big Five Agenda. I look forward to a stronger partnership between the People’s Republic of China and Sierra Leone.”

USD $50 Million Agreement on SMART Sierra Leone Project

The Government of Sierra Leone (GoSL) signed a USD $50 million agreement with China to support the “SMART Sierra Leone Project.” This initiative aims to drive the country’s digital transformation, focusing on enhancing public administration, e-governance and the provision of digital services. Once implemented, the project is expected to position Sierra Leone as a leader in digital innovation within the region, significantly improving efficiency in governance and service delivery.

Launch of the Digital Village Project

In a forward-thinking move to merge agriculture with technology, the GoSL also secured an agreement on the Digital Village Project, which will be implemented in Tormabum, a key agricultural hub in Sierra Leone. This initiative seeks to leverage digital tools to enhance agricultural productivity, linking farmers with advanced technological resources. The project is expected to improve food security, create efficient farming techniques and foster innovation in Sierra Leone’s agricultural sector.

Expansion of the Mining Sector

Sierra Leone’s mining sector stands to benefit greatly from a landmark framework agreement signed by Mineral Wealth Fund SL Limited to expand mining operations. The agreement focuses on Tonkolili’s vast iron ore deposits, promising significant infrastructure investment. This expansion is projected to create thousands of jobs and attract additional foreign investment, positioning Sierra Leone as a major player in the global iron ore market.

Fisheries Certification Breakthrough

After a 14-year wait, Sierra Leone has been awarded an International Fish Export Certificate by the Chinese Government. This long-awaited certification opens the door for Sierra Leone’s fish exports to international markets, presenting an opportunity for the country to generate substantial revenue from its fishing industry. The certification is a key milestone for the sector, which has struggled with export restrictions in recent years.

Increased Development Assistance

In addition to the above agreements, China has pledged to increase its development assistance to Sierra Leone by 200 million Chinese yuan. This financial boost will support a range of development initiatives, including infrastructure, education and healthcare projects. The increased aid is expected to significantly contribute to Sierra Leone’s growth and development.

President Bio’s visit to China underscores the deepening relationship between Sierra Leone and China. During a meeting with President Xi Jinping at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing cooperation on issues of mutual interest. President Xi highlighted that China and Sierra Leone should continue to stand together on critical issues and expressed China’s readiness to strengthen coordination with Sierra Leone on global platforms like the United Nations.

The Chinese leader also emphasized China’s role in promoting practical cooperation with African countries, further advancing modernization and creating a shared future for China and Africa. As China continues to invest heavily in Africa’s future, Sierra Leone is well-positioned to benefit from strengthened ties and increased investments.

President Bio’s participation in the 2024 FOCAC summit has yielded substantial benefits for Sierra Leone, with agreements and partnerships that will drive the country’s economic and social development. From digital transformation and agricultural innovation to mining expansion and fisheries certification, the deals signed during the summit will have far-reaching impacts on the nation. As Sierra Leone continues to deepen its partnership with China, these agreements will play a pivotal role in shaping the country’s development trajectory in the years to come.

Is the Lungi Bridge Construction Set to Begin in December 2024?

September 9, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Last year, the Government of Sierra Leone signed a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with China Road and Bridge Corporation and the architectural firm Atépa Group, marking a major step toward the construction of the much-anticipated Freetown-Lungi Bridge. The agreement, which was signed in Freetown, aims to begin construction by the final quarter of 2024, with an estimated completion time of three years.

However, as the months pass and December approaches, concerned citizens are questioning whether the project will move forward as planned or remain an ambitious, unfulfilled promise. Public curiosity and concern are growing as Sierra Leoneans eagerly await visible progress on what is considered a transformative infrastructure project.

The proposed 8-kilometer bridge, expected to cost $1.5 billion, is envisioned as a cornerstone of President Julius Maada Bio’s “Big 5” agenda, which prioritizes infrastructure and technological development.

The bridge would connect Freetown, the nation’s bustling capital, to Lungi, home to Sierra Leone’s newly inaugurated international airport, enhancing the country’s transportation network. The project is expected to significantly ease the movement of both international and domestic travelers and contribute to Sierra Leone’s broader economic growth.

The bridge will be a vital link between Freetown and the state-of-the-art Lungi International Airport, which was commissioned by President Maada Bio on March 3, 2023. The airport, replacing the old structure that was built in 1945, was constructed at a cost of $270 million, representing a major upgrade for the country’s aviation infrastructure. The addition of the Freetown-Lungi Bridge would further elevate Sierra Leone’s status as a more accessible destination for international travelers, potentially boosting tourism, trade and investment.

China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC), a global leader in infrastructure development, is said to be tasked with overseeing the bridge’s construction. CRBC operates in more than 50 countries across Asia, Africa, Europe and the Americas, and ranks 61st on the Fortune 500 list. With such a vast track record of successful projects, the corporation’s involvement will add a level of credibility to the undertaking. CRBC has been responsible for some of the most challenging and complex infrastructure projects worldwide and their participation in the Freetown-Lungi Bridge project could be seen as a positive indicator of the project’s potential.

In addition to CRBC, the Atépa Group, known for its architectural expertise, is said to be involved in the project. The firm has worked on numerous high-profile projects across West Africa, including the Banjul Airport in Gambia, the BCEAO headquarters in Dakar, Senegal and the ECOWAS Fund headquarters in Lomé, Togo. Their involvement will bring further optimism for the design and execution of the bridge.

The strategic importance of the Freetown-Lungi Bridge cannot be overstated. It is expected to bolster Sierra Leone’s vision for sustainable growth and global connectivity, positioning the nation as a key player in regional transportation. Moreover, the bridge could reduce travel time between Freetown and Lungi from hours, depending on ferry schedules, to mere minutes, offering convenience to business travelers, tourists and locals alike.

Yet, despite the potential benefits, skepticism remains among the population. Many are asking whether the construction of the bridge will actually materialize or if it will remain an elusive dream. The bridge has long been discussed and while the signing of the MoU marks progress, citizens are wary of delays or setbacks that could derail the project. The significant financial cost, coupled with the logistical challenges of such a large-scale project, also contributes to doubts about the Government’s ability to deliver on this ambitious promise.

With construction scheduled to begin in late 2024, all eyes will be on the Government to see if they can meet this deadline and begin the transformative project. The Freetown-Lungi Bridge stands as a symbol of Sierra Leone’s aspirations for modernization and connectivity, but whether it will become a reality or remain a lofty vision is yet to be seen.

As the country moves closer to the proposed start date, citizens and stakeholders alike are anxiously awaiting updates and tangible progress, hoping that the bridge will serve as a beacon of development rather than a monument to unrealized potential.

Dr. Turad Senesie Presents Bold Vision for Urban Growth at Inaugural Africa Urban Forum

September 9, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Sierra Leone made a significant impact at the first-ever Africa Urban Forum, held on September 6, 2024, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Leading the country’s delegation was Dr. Turad Senesie, Minister of Lands, Housing and Country Planning, who took part in vital discussions aimed at driving urban development across Africa.

Dr. Turad Senesie participated in several productive bilateral meetings with influential figures such as the Director General of UN Habitat and fellow Ministers from Ethiopia, South Africa and other African nations. These discussions focused on collaborative efforts to improve land and housing policies, showcasing Sierra Leone’s commitment to urban reform and sustainable growth.

In his national address, Dr. Turad Senesie highlighted Sierra Leone’s ongoing efforts to modernize its land, housing and planning sectors. He emphasized the Government’s dedication to enhancing urban living conditions and promoting sustainable development initiatives.

A key aspect of the forum was the Minister’s collaboration with his delegation, which included key officials like Sahr Mark Kanawa, Director of Country Planning; Rashid Charles Ngiawee, Director of Housing; Dr. Alphajoh Cham, Project Coordinator of the Sierra Leone Land Administration Project and Abdul Fonti, Community Engagement and Communication Specialist. Together, they conducted an in-depth review of proposed amendments to the Town and Country Planning Act, ensuring broad stakeholder input in shaping the reforms.

Dr. Turad Senesie expressed optimism about the forum’s outcomes, stressing the importance of shared experiences and regional cooperation in addressing urban challenges. “Our presence here goes beyond sharing our achievements, it’s about learning from others and working together to create solutions that benefit our cities,” he remarked.

The partnerships and knowledge gained during the forum are expected to play a crucial role in Sierra Leone’s efforts to build more sustainable and inclusive urban environments.

At the Africa Urban Forum, Dr. Turad Senesie, Sierra Leone’s Minister of Lands, Housing and Country Planning, presented an ambitious vision for Africa’s urban future. Addressing a gathering of leaders, Ministers and development partners, he outlined Sierra Leone’s strategies for transforming land management and building resilient cities.

Central to Dr. Turad Senesie’s address was Sierra Leone’s unique position as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council. He emphasized the country’s use of this platform to address the root causes of conflict and promote peace, stability and sustainable urbanization. According to the Minister, peace is essential for Africa’s aspirations to build resilient, inclusive cities.

On the domestic front, the Minister introduced a series of pioneering land reforms aimed at addressing the challenges of rapid urbanization. These initiatives include modernizing outdated land laws, implementing transparent land registration systems and digitizing land records to ensure secure land tenure and equitable access for all citizens.

The Minister also reinforced the need for regional cooperation, calling on African nations to collaborate on policies that promote inclusive growth, secure land rights and urban resilience. The Africa Urban Forum, he added, serves as a crucial platform for knowledge exchange and fostering collaboration in sustainable urban development.

Dr. Turad Senesie’s remarks further positioned Sierra Leone as a key player in Africa’s urban development landscape, reinforcing the country’s commitment to peace, prosperity and sustainable urban growth.

MBSSE Endorses Free, Six-Week Climate Action Project for Schools Across Sierra Leone

September 9, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE) has on September 10, 2024 officially endorsed the Climate Action Project 2024, a six-week online initiative by Take Action Global aimed at tackling climate change. The free program offers an opportunity for schools across Sierra Leone to participate, empowering students to become environmental leaders and global change makers.

The Climate Action Project, which connects schools worldwide, has already united over 4.8 million students from more than 160 countries. It offers educators and students resources to understand climate change and take part in meaningful activities such as tree planting and other community-based environmental projects.

“Our world is already experiencing the devastating effects of climate change. Sierra Leone is among the top 10% of the most vulnerable countries to this crisis and we are feeling its impact in all areas of life,” said Conrad O. Sackey, Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education. “Education is key to building resilience, and the Climate Action Project equips our students with the knowledge and skills they need to protect and adapt to our rapidly changing world.”

The program, which starts on September 30, 2024, aligns with the MBSSE’s recent efforts to create a climate-resilient education system. The initiative is open to all schools across Sierra Leone, from pre-primary to university levels, with flexible registration and participation options.

“We are thrilled to have the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education endorse the Climate Action Project,” said Koen Timmers, Co-Founder of Take Action Global. “This partnership allows Sierra Leonean students to join a global movement and lead the fight against climate change.”

Registration for the Climate Action Project 2024 is now open at [www.climateactionproject.org/register](https://www.climateactionproject.org/register).

Take Action Global (TAG) is a prominent non-profit organization dedicated to providing climate action education to students and educators around the world, reaching over 4.8 million individuals across more than 160 countries. TAG collaborates with a wide range of global partners, including WWF, NASA, LEGO and FHi360, as well as international experts and world leaders. As a member of UNESCO’s International Task Force on Teachers for Education 2030 and the Greening Education Partnership, TAG plays a key role in advancing sustainability education.

In 2023, the World Economic Forum recognized TAG’s Climate Action Project as an Education 4.0 Lighthouse, one of 16 innovative public-private partnerships redefining the future of education. For more information, visit [www.takeactionglobal.org](http://www.takeactionglobal.org).

The Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE) in Sierra Leone is tasked with developing and implementing policies to improve access, quality and equity in education from pre-primary to senior secondary levels. Its responsibilities include overseeing curriculum development, teacher training and school infrastructure, ensuring that education remains inclusive and accessible to all. In recent years, MBSSE has ramped up efforts to create a climate-resilient education system, equipping schools and students to better navigate the growing challenges posed by climate change in Sierra Leone.

Rokel Commercial Bank Marks Silver Jubilee with Record Profits and Innovative Services

September 9, 2024

By Amin Kef Sesay

Rokel Commercial Bank (RCBank) is set to celebrate its 25th anniversary on September 17, marking a quarter of a century since the bank transitioned from Barclays Plc ownership to full Government and public control in Sierra Leone. This transition took place in 1999, following Barclays’ exit after managing the bank since 1917. The post-transition period saw steady growth, though the bank faced significant challenges during the civil war in the 1990s.

Following the end of the war, RCBank encountered a downturn, struggling with liquidity and solvency issues. These difficulties persisted until 2013, when the Government of Sierra Leone intervened with a bailout. As part of the recapitalization efforts, the Government acquired a 65% stake in the bank, positioning it to become one of the country’s most profitable financial institutions and a key player in Sierra Leone’s economic landscape.

Despite the bailout, RCBank’s struggles continued until 2017 when the appointment of Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin as Managing Director marked a turning point. Dr. Gilpin, an experienced economist and financial expert, implemented bold reforms aimed at modernizing the bank. A rebranding campaign, featuring a new logo and enhanced customer outreach efforts, helped in rebuilding public trust and improve the bank’s visibility.

Under Dr. Gilpin’s leadership, RCBank experienced exponential growth. Customer deposits, capital adequacy and performing loans saw significant improvements, while annual profit margins followed an upward trajectory. In 2016, the bank posted profits of just Le1.5 billion, but by 2017, this figure had surged to Le64 billion. By 2020, the bank recorded an impressive profit of Le83.5 billion, while retained earnings jumped from Le966 million in 2019 to Le44 billion. The bank successfully cleared over Le100 billion of retained losses within three years, enabling it to pay a dividend of Le6.5 billion to both majority and minority shareholders.

Technological advancements played a key role in the bank’s transformation. The introduction of a robust IT infrastructure revolutionized RCBank’s operations, reducing transaction times and introducing a near-paperless system. The launch of Rokel SimKorpor, a mobile money platform, further boosted the bank’s revenue while creating employment opportunities.

In recent years, RCBank has introduced cutting-edge electronic banking services, including prepaid cards, credit cards, Visa cards, ATMs and international money transfer services like MoneyGram, Western Union and Ria. These services have garnered positive feedback from customers, reflecting the bank’s commitment to enhancing its product offerings.

Today, RCBank is trusted by Government and Non-Governmental Organizations alike, with entities such as NACSA, the Teaching Service Commission (TSC), UNDP and the World Bank utilizing the bank’s digital services for payroll and social safety net programs.

In addition to its financial success, RCBank remains a strong advocate for financial inclusion. The bank’s Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) loan scheme, launched in 2021, has provided much-needed financial support to entrepreneurs with little or no collateral. Beneficiaries, including Okada riders and market women, have praised the scheme for its low-interest rates, flexible payment plans and business development training.

As RCBank celebrates its 25th anniversary, it stands as a testament to resilience and innovation in Sierra Leone’s financial sector, with plans for further expansion and a continued focus on promoting financial inclusion.

Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr Advocates for Climate Action at C40 Cities Southeast Asia Forum

September 9, 2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Freetown Mayor, Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr, served as the keynote speaker at the C40 Cities Southeast Asia Regional Academy on September 6, 2024. The event, hosted by Quezon City Mayor, Joy Belmonte, brought together city leaders from across Southeast Asia, including representatives from Jakarta, Indonesia and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, alongside C40 Cities Advisors from the region and Freetown.

As Co-Chair of C40 Cities, Mayor Aki-Sawyerr highlighted the critical role of inclusive climate action during sessions focused on gender inclusivity, climate finance, youth engagement and multilateral cooperation. She also shared insights from various C40 Cities’ initiatives in addressing the global climate crisis, including efforts in Freetown.

“Peer learning is an essential and effective element of C40 Cities’ operational framework,” Mayor Aki-Sawyerr noted. She was accompanied by her Freetown C40 Cities team members Pius Nishimwe, Sallieu Kanu and Fatmata Kanyako, who participated in the discussions and gained valuable insights into climate solutions implemented in other cities.

A highlight of the event was Quezon City’s urban farming model, which has successfully established around 1,300 urban farms in diverse locations such as police stations and former illegal dumpsites. This initiative addresses food insecurity, improves city greening and provides livelihoods, all while combating the impacts of climate change. Mayor Aki-Sawyerr expressed interest in learning from Quezon City’s model as Freetown seeks to scale up its own urban farming interventions.

During her visit to the Philippines, Mayor Aki-Sawyerr experienced extreme weather events, including a typhoon, monsoon rains and a mild earthquake. Schools in the region were closed for three consecutive days, underscoring the urgent need for climate action and the resources cities require to address such challenges.

The Mayor extended her gratitude to Mayor Belmonte for her hospitality and leadership and was honored with the symbolic Key to Quezon City as a token of appreciation.

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