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Chinese Ambassador Grants Scholarships to Pupils Across Schools

By Foday Moriba Conteh

As part of deepening the bi-lateral relationship between Sierra Leone and the People’s Republic of China, the Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone, His Excellency Ambassador Wang Qing has on Wednesday 13th December, 2023 awarded scholarships to pupils from different institutions under the 2023 Chinese Ambassadors’ Grant Recipients ceremony. The ceremony, held at the Chinese Embassy on Spur Road in Freetown, was attended by esteemed guests, including the Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, Conrad Sackey and the Deputy Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs Hindowa Buakai Bindi.

In his remarks, Ambassador Wang Qing warmly congratulated all the recipients of the Chinese Ambassador’s Grant, recognizing their academic achievements before presenting the grant which he pointed out was a form of acknowledgment for their academic excellence and an incentive for continued success.

The Ambassador emphasized the importance of education further stating that it plays a crucial role in the development and progress of any nation.

With the holiday season approaching, Ambassador Wang Qing also maintained that the grant also serves as both a Christmas and  New Year gift from the Chinese Embassy to the recipients for Christmas, expressing gratitude to Minister Sackey, Deputy Minister Bindi, and their Ministries for their support and collaboration in organizing the event.

Ambassador Wang Qing highlighted the significance of education in China’s development, detailing the country’s commitment in making education a key national strategy since its foundation in 1949.

He noted the comprehensive policy system implemented to support students, emphasizing awards, loans, grants, part-time allowances, supplements, and exemptions.

The Ambassador commended Sierra Leone for its notable achievements in education, referencing the implementation of the “Free Quality Education” flagship program under the leadership of His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio.

He also mentioned the enactment of the Basic and Senior Secondary Education Act 2023 and the significant increase in enrolment and pass rates in the West African Senior Secondary School Examination (WASSCE) he acknowledged as milestones that will contribute to Sierra Leone’s development.

Ambassador Wang Qing shared inspiring stories of individuals who, through education, made significant contributions to their fields, such as Professor Yuan Longping in China and Hon. Chief Minister Dr. David Moinina Sengeh in Sierra Leone. He emphasized the role of education in personal fulfillment and highlighted success stories that exemplify the transformative power of learning.

He maintained that over the past two decades, China has been a key partner in Sierra Leone’s education sector, providing scholarships, training opportunities, and establishing educational institutions such as the Confucius Institute.

According to him, in 2023 alone, 155 Sierra Leonean students received full scholarships to study in Chinese Universities, contributing to the over 1,200 Sierra Leone students who have benefited from Chinese scholarships in the past two decades.

Ambassador Wang Qing concluded by encouraging the grant recipients to seize the opportunities available to them, study diligently and contribute to the development and prosperity of the country. He expressed hope for the recipients to become future contributors to China-Sierra Leone friendship and bilateral relations.

He extended holiday greetings to all attendees and wished them success in the coming year.

On his part, Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, Conrad Sackey, expressed appreciation to the Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone for the kind gesture saying he considers such as very important in helping the students to learn.

He expressed gratitude for the numerous support Sierra Leone has received from the People’s Republic of China of which he noted that the award of scholarships to pupils from different institutions, under the 2023 Chinese Ambassadors’ Grant Recipients ceremony, is a testament of their commitment towards deepening the bi-lateral relationship between Sierra Leone and the People’s Republic of China.

Conrad Sackey encouraged recipients to make very good use of the opportunity describing them as very lucky to receive such a support.

The Deputy Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Hindowa Buakai Bindi, also joined other speakers to applaud the Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone for awarding the selected pupils with the 2023 Chinese Ambassadors’ Grant.

He urged parents of the recipients to ensure that they continue to give good parenting to their children.

Hindowa Buakai Bindi concluded by reaffirming Government’s commitment towards creating an enabling environment for children in the country.

Closing the ceremony was the official presentation of the grants to the deserving pupils by the Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone, His Excellency Ambassador Wang Qing, the Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, Conrad Sackey and The Deputy Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Hindowa Buakai Bindi

OPF Calls for Inclusive Development on International Disability Day 2023

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The Programs Manager of One Family People, Samuel P.O.V Macauley, delivered a compelling statement at the commemoration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2023. The event, held under the theme: “Employment and Economic Justice for the Fulfillment of the Big Five Game Changers for Persons with Disabilities,” took place at the Miatta Conference Car Park, Youyi Building in Freetown.

Addressing Honorable Ministers, Members of the Diplomatic Corp, the Community of Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) and distinguished guests, Macauley emphasized the pressing need for the inclusion of persons with disabilities in all aspects of national development. The event brought together national non-governmental organizations and partners of the Ministry of Social Welfare to collectively address this societal imperative.

Macauley highlighted the power of an intersectional approach, acknowledging the diverse identities and experiences of individuals with disabilities. The goal, he stressed, is to address the multifaceted and interconnected challenges faced by this community comprehensively.

He noted that the theme: “Bring Along Persons with Disabilities in the Implementation of the Big Five Game Changers,” resonates with the challenges faced by children and youngsters with disabilities in Sierra Leone adding that the call is to place them at the forefront of national development, ensuring an inclusive and accessible society.

On behalf of One Family People, he urged the President, Ministries, Departments and Agencies to actively contribute to the inclusion of persons with disabilities, recognizing the Ministry of Social Welfare as a valuable partner saying the call is for broader engagement across all sectors of society.

He emphasized on the fundamental right to education for every child, irrespective of their abilities of which he urged the Ministry of Education to develop and implement inclusive policies and practices, ensuring equitable access to quality education.

Macauley also called on the Ministry of Health to prioritize inclusive healthcare and rehabilitation services, providing accessible medical facilities, adequate treatment and necessary assistive devices.

He stressed the pivotal role of employment in the economic empowerment of individuals with disabilities calling on the Ministry of Labour and Social Security to actively promote inclusive employment practices adding how the Ministry of Information should ensure that all information is presented in accessible formats.

The Programs Manager concluded by making a final call to all Ministries, Departments and Agencies to prioritize universal accessibility in their infrastructure and services which includes public buildings, transportation systems and communication platforms designed with inclusivity in mind.

Macauley concluded by highlighting the significance of meaningful inclusion for true development and progress. He urged the President to unite Ministries, Departments, Agencies, and persons with disabilities to work towards an inclusive society, emphasizing the realization of the rights and potential of every Sierra Leonean.

The event also featured the Great Walpoleans Music and Drama Band, recognized by the United Nations as the official musical group for the “LEAVE NO ONE BEHIND” campaign.

One Family People and Liliane Foundation reiterated their commitment to supporting the Government’s efforts to “LEAVE NO ONE BEHIND” in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for persons with disabilities.

NP-SL Addresses Fuel Scarcity with Massive 44,000 Metric Tons of Petroleum Products

In a bid to curb the looming fuel scarcity and ensure a steady supply for consumers, NP (SL) Limited, the leading importer and marketer of petroleum products in Sierra Leone has announced the imminent arrival of over 40 thousand consignments of petroleum products into the country towards the end of the year.

The consignments encompass a diverse range of fuels, with the first delivery comprising 10,000 metric tons of petrol aboard the MT Taurus vessel, which docked on December 5 this year. Likewise, the MT TBN vessel is expected to bring in an additional 14,000 metric tons of petrol on December 17, while a significant shipment of 20,000 metric tons of diesel is scheduled to reach the shores of Sierra Leone on December 20, facilitated by the MT TBN vessel. The shipments are part of a collaborative agreement between NP and its partner, Addax.

Over the years, NP has always shipped the largest consignment of fuel into the country, solidifying its reputation as the leading petroleum importing and marketing entity in Sierra Leone.

In a statement, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of NP-SL Ltd, Kobi Walker said that although there are challenges with access to foreign exchange and pricing, the company is committed to ensuring that there is adequate stock of petroleum products in the country.

Correcting a previous statement attributed to the Petroleum Regulatory Agency (PRA), he emphasized that the PRA is solely a regulatory agency and does not engage in importing petroleum products. He said NP and Leoneoil are the primary importers of petroleum products into the country, while several other oil marketing companies rely extensively on NP for support and product procurement
“As a responsible corporate citizen, NP will persistently work to ensure an abundant supply of petroleum products in all towns, cities, and villages throughout Sierra Leone. Our efforts aim to keep the market consistently supplied and support the nation’s fuel needs,” Kobi Walker affirmed.

The Communications Manager, Dr. Williette James said that the arrival of the products will ensure an adequate supply of fuel with sufficiency throughout and beyond the festive period.

“We understand the importance of a steady fuel supply, especially during peak periods like the festive season. Our commitment to delivering the largest consignments exemplifies our dedication to meeting the energy needs of the nation,” remarked Dr. James.
She further added that the products will be timely delivered to filling stations across the country, preventing shortages that could disrupt daily life.

As NP-SL Ltd continues to reinforce its pivotal role in the country’s energy landscape, these measures aim to provide a seamless and uninterrupted fuel supply for the benefit of the Sierra Leone populace.

Choithram Hospital Receives Award as Medical Institution of the Year

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In recognition of their outstanding leadership performance, humanitarian services and development contributions in the country, Bureh Heritage Foundation through its Bai Bureh Service Delivery Awards has awarded Choithram Memorial Hospital as Medical Institution of the Year 2023. The official ceremony was held on Saturday 9th, December 2023, at the Port Loko City Council Hall in Port Loko District, Northern Province of Sierra Leone.

The Award was presented to the Management and Staff of the hospital on Tuesday 12th December, 2023 at the Hospital Premises on Hill Station in Freetown.

This year’s award ceremony, which marks the 6th Edition of the Bureh Heritage Foundation Awards, was held in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Leone Rock Metal Group, Kambia District Council, Port Loko District Council, Kambia District Development and Rehabilitation Organization etc.

Presenting the awards on behalf of the Bai Bureh Service Delivery Awards 2023, Executive Director at Bai Bureh Heritage Foundation, Amb Unisa Fofanah, revealed how the Bai Bureh Heritage Foundation in partnership with other institutions joined forces to honor and celebrate the exceptional dedication and commitment of 50 Service Delivery Champions from both the private and public service sectors in the country including Choithram Memorial Hospital.

He informed the gathering that in March -May this year, Bai Bureh Service Delivery Awards requested for the public to nominate individuals and institutions that exhibited outstanding leadership performance, humanitarian services and development contributions in the country of which Choithram Memorial Hospital, among other medical institutions, was nominated as the as Medical Institution of the Year 2023.

Amb. Unisa Fofanah stated that after the nomination went further to conduct a secret background check on the Choithram Memorial Hospital and other medical institutions nominated of which he revealed that, based on their findings on the performance and operations of the hospital, which they tendered to the Board of Directors of the awards and after scrutiny by the Board, Choithram Memorial Hospital was announced as the winner of this year’s Medical Institution of the Year.

Receiving the Award, the Chief Administrator of Choithram Group, Harish Agnani expressed appreciation to Bureh Heritage Foundation, through its Bai Bureh Service Delivery Awards, for recognizing their outstanding leadership performance, humanitarian services and development contributions in the country as Medical Institution of the Year.

He dedicated the Award to the Staff of Choithram Memorial Hospital whom he described as very dedicated in their service and working tirelessly towards delivering on the mandate of the hospital.

Harish Agnani assured all that the hospital will continue in its strides towards providing quality health services to the people of Sierra Leone.

Climaxing the ceremony was the official presentation of the Award by the Executive Director, Bai Bureh Heritage Foundation, Amb. Unisa Fofanah to the Management and Staff  of  Choithram Memorial Hospital.

Don Bosco Fambul Marks 25th Anniversary with Inauguration of Therapeutic Center

By Haja Jeneba Jakitay

In celebration of its 25 years of unwavering commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable children and youth, Don Bosco Fambul, a non-profit organization, inaugurated a newly constructed Therapeutic Center on Saturday, December 9, 2023. The center, located in Baoma Village along the Waterloo-Tombo Highway in the Western Rural District, comprises four expansive buildings, including a clinic, accommodations for volunteers and social workers, a Salesian community residence, and a chapel.

Father Piotr Wonjnarowski, the Director of Don Bosco Fambul, expressed profound gratitude to the dedicated donors, steadfast partners, and committed staff who have played pivotal roles in the organization’s journey. He emphasized that while the facilities are noteworthy, the true measure of success lies in the countless lives transformed by Don Bosco Fambul. Father Piotr Wonjnarowski extended appreciation to the Governments and People of Germany and Spain for their significant contributions to the organization’s development.

Acknowledging the pivotal role played by former Directors and staff since the organization’s inception in 1998, Father Piotr Wonjnarowski underscored the collaborative partnership between the Sierra Leonean Government and Don Bosco Fambul, emphasizing the Government’s commitment to creating a better future for its citizens. He highlighted recent support, including a scholarship for 24 beneficiaries from the Office of the First Lady of Sierra Leone.

Providing insights into the organization’s impact over the past four years (2020-2023), Father Piotr Wonjnarowski shared statistics on the accommodation of 454 girls, assistance to 318 beneficiaries at the childcare center, medical aid to 1,426,000 individuals at Don Bosco Hospital, 400 calls attended to by ChildLine, and legal assistance provided to 1,420 cases.

He concluded by reaffirming their commitment to uplifting vulnerable children and youth, forging a future filled with hope, education, and opportunity. Here’s to a legacy of compassion, resilience, and positive change.

In his statement, the Programs Manager for Caritas Freetown, Ishmael Alfred Charles, congratulated Don Bosco for cerebrating 25 years of dedicated service in the country and also commended them for the inauguration of newly constructed Therapeutic Center.

He said that the work of Don Bosco towards transforming lives and restoring dignity and their commitment and passion is visible especially among the vulnerable.

Ishmael Alfred Charles said that he has met people who had lost hope and thought all is lost back in the days of the conflict and the several disasters the country has witnessed and how the organization has helped in transforming the lives of these young people who needed support saying today these young people are placed in society which according to him underscores the true compassionate actions the work of Don Bosco which can be seen all around.

German Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Amb. Jens Kraus-Masse, congratulated Don Bosco Fambul on its 25th-Anniversary celebration, commending the organization’s dedication to making a positive impact in the country.

In his statement, the Deputy Chief Director at the Ministry of Social Welfare, Francis Kabia, expressed delight in being part of the celebration and emphasized the Ministry’s partnership with Don Bosco in providing social services to vulnerable groups.

He commended Don Bosco’s efforts in addressing pressing societal issues such as drug abuse, violence, and child abuse, highlighting the organization’s therapy center and its role in building a safer society.

Furthermore, Francis Kabia stressed the importance of partnership and collaboration in achieving social welfare goals, emphasizing the need to strengthen the tripartite relationship between the Government, Management and community for the successful rollout of services at the therapy center.

He also encouraged the community to play an active role beyond providing land, and addressed the beneficiaries, urging them to embrace the values and ideals of Don Bosco Fambul to contribute positively to society.

Towards the conclusion of his speech, the Deputy Chief Director emphasized the grooming of local donors to support initiatives, acknowledging the Ministry’s commitment to working with Don Bosco Fambul in successfully implementing the therapy center’s operations.

Peace Commission Emerges as Top ‘Government Agency of the Year’

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

The Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC) has been honored with the prestigious ‘Government Agency of the Year Award.’ The recognition was bestowed upon the ICPNC by the Bai Bureh Heritage Foundation, highlighting the Commission’s remarkable contributions to the betterment of Sierra Leone.

The award underscores the ICPNC’s unwavering commitment to fostering unity and harmony within the nation. Known for its outstanding leadership performance, humanitarian services, and impactful development initiatives, the ICPNC has proven to be a beacon of hope and progress in Sierra Leone. The accolade serves as a testament to the Commission’s pivotal role in ensuring peace, not only during times of tranquility but especially in the crucial periods before and after elections.

The recognition is not only a reflection of past achievements but also a vote of confidence in the ongoing efforts of the ICPNC. As a pivotal government agency, the Commission has consistently demonstrated its commitment to maintaining stability and fostering a sense of national identity. The ‘Government Agency of the Year’ award highlights the Commission’s pivotal role in contributing to the socio-political landscape of Sierra Leone.

Moreover, the award ceremony showcased the ICPNC’s exceptional work in ensuring peace and national cohesion, particularly during the critical periods surrounding elections. In a time where political tensions can run high, the Commission’s dedication to fostering an environment of tranquility and unity has not gone unnoticed.

As the ICPNC basks in the glory of this prestigious accolade, it remains steadfast in its mission to promote peace and national cohesion. The award serves as a beacon of encouragement, motivating the Commission to continue its exemplary work in building a harmonious Sierra Leone for future generations.

In accepting the ‘Government Agency of the Year Award,’ representatives from the ICPNC expressed gratitude for the recognition and reaffirmed their commitment to the principles of peace, unity, and progress. This acknowledgement not only honors the Commission but also serves as an inspiration for other government agencies to strive for excellence in their respective fields.

Sierra Leoneans now look to the ICPNC with even greater expectations, confident that the Commission will continue to lead by example and play a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s future. The ‘Government Agency of the Year Award’ serves as a reminder that in the pursuit of national development, fostering peace and unity is an indispensable cornerstone.

Choithram Memorial Hospital Announces Free Two-Week Surgical Camp

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Choithram Memorial Hospital, a leading private medical institution in Sierra Leone, is set to host a no-cost surgical camp from January 9 to January 23, 2024. The initiative is a collaborative initiative between the hospital and Interplast Germany, spearheaded by Dr. M. L. Baryoh, the Sierra Leonean Ambassador to Germany.

The Hospital Management has confirmed that a seasoned team of German plastic surgeons will provide complimentary consultations and treatments. These medical professionals, who have been making their services available to Sierra Leoneans since 2010, will perform the surgeries free of charge. The camp’s operations will be supervised by Dr. Eric Wongo, a plastic surgeon.

Choithram Hospital has a long-standing tradition of organizing such community service events, extending access to high-quality medical care to those who otherwise wouldn’t afford it. The upcoming medical camp will cater to patients with conditions such as post-burn contracture, hand, feet, and wrist disorders/deformities, hand and feet tumors, as well as cleft lip and palate.

The German medical team consists of eight specialists, namely Dr. Med Lutz Gruhl, Dr. Bernd Heidemann, Dr. Olaf Weigt, Dr. Karolina Lischka, Dr. Franziska von Sievers, Mr. Nikolaus Brunner, Mrs. Andrea Schmidt, and Mrs. Monika Schäfer.

Choithram’s Medical Superintendent, Dr. Gowrinath M. George, expressed his gratitude to Ambassador Dr. M. L. Baryoh for his instrumental role in the initiative. “Without Dr. Baryoh’s tireless efforts in connecting Interplast and Choithram Hospital, this camp would not have been possible,” Dr. George stated.

The hospital also announced the upcoming installation of a new Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machine, which is expected to be operational by the first week of January 2024.

Harish Agnani, the Chief Administrator of Choithram Group, reinforced the hospital’s dedication to offering quality healthcare for all, a vision that has guided the institution since its inception.

Patients interested in the free surgical camp are advised to contact the hospital at +23276541331 for registration or visit the hospital in Hill Station, Freetown. Registration is open from December 8 to December 19, 2023.

Orange SL Credits the Media for Successful Achievements

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

In a gesture of gratitude, Orange SL on Monday, December 11th, 2023 hosted an engaging session at the company’s headquarters in Freetown to honor the pivotal role played by the media in contributing to the company’s achievements. The event, named Orange H2 Media Engagement, saw departmental heads present their annual reports while acknowledging the media’s steadfast commitment to accuracy and timely dissemination of information.

Madam Danetta Young, General Secretary of Orange SL, emphasized the company’s acknowledgment of the media’s significance, praising their commitment to delivering precise and timely news about Orange SL to the public.

Alpha Bundu, the keynote speaker at the event, elucidated on the purpose behind engaging with the media further stressing the importance of informing journalists about Orange SL’s milestones, fostering interaction and expressing appreciation for the diverse roles journalists play in keeping the public informed about the company’s activities, investments and aspirations.

He highlighted the symbiotic relationship between Orange SL and the media, attributing the company’s recognition as a leading digitization partner to the amplifying role of the media. Underscoring how communication has transformed into a necessity he also acknowledged the profound impact of both the traditional and social media in shaping interactions between businesses and customers.

According to him, Orange SL is committed to ensuring its products and services meet the needs of its customers and citizens, attaching value to every voice that carries an Orange SIM.

On his part, Kamal Abass, in his corporate highlights, underscored the company’s commitment to providing job opportunities for Sierra Leoneans.

Dauda M. Bangura, CEO of Owl Newspaper and a representative of Orange Media Partners, emphasized the media’s crucial role in Orange SL’s success, promising continued support despite economic challenges.

Madam Mabel Mason extended gratitude to media practitioners for their unwavering support, attributing the company’s brand credibility to the sustained backing from the media.

During the climax of the engagement, Alpha Bundu reiterated the essence of the H2 media session, reaffirming Orange SL’s commitment to transparency, trust, and loyalty by valuing customers’ feedback and acknowledging the media’s integral role in shaping the company’s journey.

The event ended with an enhanced sense of mutual appreciation and recognition of the enduring partnership between Orange SL and the media, highlighting a shared commitment to delivering quality information and services to the public.

Beyond Rhetoric: Safe Space Sierra Leone Spearheads Concrete Change for Women

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Safe Space SL initiative is embarking on a groundbreaking mission to empower Sierra Leone’s local communities to sustainably address sexual health, gender-based violence and societal taboos. The strategy, rooted in capacity building and community engagement is designed to ensure that the strides made by the organization endure long after its active involvement.

Safe Space SL aims to bolster local organizations by identifying and partnering with existing NGOs and community-based groups with shared goals. Through resource allocation, training, and mentorship, these groups can adopt and carry forward the responsibilities and activities initiated by Safe Space SL.

The strategy also extends to empowering community leaders and influencers, arming them with the knowledge and skills necessary to tackle sexual health and gender-based violence issues within their communities. This is achieved through the creation and implementation of community-led programs focused on sexual health education, gender equality, and violence prevention.

Safe Space SL is also fostering a cooperative network by establishing partnerships between community groups, healthcare providers, educational institutions, and local authorities. Together, these entities will collaboratively tackle sexual health issues.

The initiative also involves the development of culturally sensitive and context-specific educational materials, in collaboration with local educators and experts. Ensuring these materials are integrated into both formal and informal education systems is a key goal.

In addition, Safe Space SL is providing training to local teachers, healthcare workers, and community leaders, equipping them to effectively deliver sexual health education and ensure its sustained impact.

The organization also aims to influence policy development by assisting local partners in advocating for policies that address sexual health, gender-based violence, and related issues. This includes establishing monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to track the progress of community-led initiatives and using the gathered data to advocate for continued support from government agencies and stakeholders.

The strategy further encompasses the development of income-generating projects and vocational training programs for women and youth aimed at enhancing economic independence and reducing vulnerability.

Furthermore, Safe Space SL is exploring the use of technology for ongoing education and awareness campaigns, leveraging mobile phones and online platforms to disseminate information. This includes the establishment and sustainability of community health clinics that offer accessible and affordable sexual health services.

With a robust system for ongoing community feedback, Safe Space SL ensures its initiatives remain responsive to the evolving community needs. A comprehensive legacy plan will document achievements, challenges, and lessons learned, serving as a guide for future organizations and initiatives addressing similar issues in Sierra Leone.

The entity is devoted to leaving a lasting impact on Sierra Leone’s communities, ensuring that positive changes initiated during its tenure continue to thrive far into the future.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of  Safe Space SL is Adeola Carew, a skilled lawyer dedicated to dismantling gender injustices. Next to her is the President, Xenobia Kargbo, who is armed with a Master’s Degree in Gender and International Relations and is adept to strategically navigate global dynamics.

Together, they lead a feminist organization, merging legal acumen and international perspectives to champion equality and amplify the voices of women worldwide.

UK Firm Honours Sierra Leonean CEO with “African Banker of the Year” Award

Reputation Poll International, a United Kingdom based reputation management firm that ranks banks and individuals working in the financial sector has recognized a Sierra Leonean banker as “African Banker of the Year” at this year’s Reputable Banks and Fintech Awards held at the House of Lords, Westminster, in the UK.

Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin, the Managing Director of Rokel Commercial Bank was among a group of elite banking professionals who were finalists from a rigorous selection process carried out by a top-level team of finance and policy experts across the Globe. According to the organizers, Gilpin was recognized for his “significant positive impact on society, widespread influence and ability to inspire positive change on a global scale.”

In Sierra Leone, Walton Gilpin has become a household name, not just within the banking sector where he has been credited for championing the complete transformation of a major financial institution, but has been a vocal crusader for financial literacy and financial inclusion. Sparing his time to educate and motivate Sierra Leoneans through his television talk shows and motivational speaking sessions in schools and universities has made him a veritable servant of the State – spreading knowledge to impact the younger generation. Outside his banking profession, he has been a philanthropist working for the empowerment of women and girls through his GEED Foundation.

The 2023 Reputable Banks and Fintech Awards was preceded by a high-level conference of banking and finance experts where Gilpin impressed his peers on how traditional banks in Africa are embracing technology for enhanced customer experience and operational efficiency. In his presentation, the erudite banker made a clear cut distinction between what financial institutions seek to achieve in terms of coverage and the social and economic realities of most African economies. In Sierra Leone for instance, Gilpin said banks would have to readjust their operations with innovative digital strategies as a sure way of overcoming infrastructural challenges like inadequate mobile connectivity.

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