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Orange Mobile Finance Drives Innovation in Sierra Leone’s FinTech Sector

By Ibrahim Sesay

Orange Mobile Finance Sierra Leone, widely known as Orange Money, is positioning itself at the forefront of the country’s rapidly evolving financial technology landscape, combining secure digital infrastructure with deep local market knowledge to expand access to financial services across the nation.

In an exclusive engagement, Chief Executive Officer, David Mansaray, described the FinTech industry as one of the most transformative and fast-evolving sectors globally, noting that in emerging markets such as Sierra Leone, it remains foundational to economic participation.

“The FinTech industry remains one of the most transformative, fast-evolving sectors globally and, in many respects, is still in its early innings, particularly in emerging markets,”David Mansaray stated.

According to him, financial technology in Sierra Leone goes beyond convenience. It plays a critical role in expanding financial inclusion, formalizing large portions of the informal economy, improving efficiency in payments and savings, and enabling access to credit, insurance and Government services at scale.

He explained that the sector is being shaped by a convergence of powerful forces, including widespread mobile phone penetration, improving digital infrastructure, pragmatic regulatory reforms and a growing youthful population whose expectations are driven by speed, convenience and personalized services.

These dynamics, David Mansaray noted, are pushing FinTech beyond basic money transfers into integrated financial ecosystems that combine commerce, identity management, data analytics and public services.

He further highlighted the growing role of artificial intelligence, describing it as a present reality rather than a future concept. AI, he said, is already transforming fraud detection, credit scoring, customer engagement, operational efficiency and risk management. In markets where traditional financial data is limited, AI-powered alternative data models offer an opportunity to design more inclusive and intelligent financial solutions.

Looking ahead, David Mansaray expressed confidence that the distinction between FinTech companies and traditional financial institutions will continue to narrow as technology-driven models increasingly shape how financial services are designed, distributed and consumed.

Orange Money currently offers a broad suite of digital financial services, including person-to-person transfers, merchant and bill payments, international remittances, savings products and digital credit solutions. Its services cater to individuals, small and medium-sized enterprises, corporations, non-governmental organisations and government institutions through a nationwide agent network supported by a skilled workforce.

With over two decades of senior leadership experience spanning banking, finance and digital financial services, Mansaray has steered the company toward strengthening its reputation for trust, innovation, scale and governance. Backed by the global expertise of the Orange Group, the company blends international standards with local market understanding.

He emphasized that regulatory compliance, service reliability, customer experience, a robust distribution network and continuous innovation remain central to Orange Money’s operations. Supportive initiatives such as tiered know-your-customer requirements, regulatory sandboxes and agency banking frameworks have expanded responsible access to financial services while strengthening consumer protection.

Among its flagship innovations is Orange Money Lajor, a digital credit product that has expanded access to finance in a market where formal credit remains limited. Since its launch, the product has reached over 300,000 customers. Building on this momentum, the company introduced Kwik Moni Loan, a digital credit facility designed to provide short-term working capital to its agent network, enhancing liquidity management, business growth and service reliability across the country. Following a successful pilot phase, the product is expected to be gradually extended to customers using data-driven risk assessment models.

The company’s Overseas Money platform has also made a significant socioeconomic impact by enabling fast and affordable international remittances that support household income, education, healthcare and small businesses. Upcoming partnerships, including Mastercard integration and Roaming Money services, are expected to enhance interoperability, payment acceptance and access to global digital commerce.

Financial inclusion remains central to Orange Money’s mission, particularly in rural communities. David Mansaray disclosed that 57 percent of the company’s customer base resides in rural areas, making it one of the largest providers of financial services to previously underserved populations.

Through its digital platforms, Orange Money has facilitated large-scale disbursements for government institutions, development partners and private sector organisations. In 2025 alone, the company disbursed more than USD 117 million to rural communities in programmes supported by institutions such as the World Bank and the World Health Organisation, benefiting over 112,000 individuals.

The company has also supported digital loan disbursement and repayment for microfinance institutions, digitised village savings groups and empowered youth and women as Orange Money agents, embedding financial services directly within local communities.

By reducing reliance on cash, improving payment efficiency and strengthening value chains across agriculture, fast-moving consumer goods and small enterprises, these initiatives have stimulated local economic activity and strengthened financial resilience at the grassroots level.

Beyond its core financial services, Orange Money’s corporate social responsibility agenda aligns with national development priorities. Through the Orange Sierra Leone Foundation and other Orange Group initiatives, the company supports education, digital inclusion, entrepreneurship, environmental sustainability and community well-being.

Its Orange Digital Centre and Women Digital Centres provide training in digital literacy, entrepreneurship and emerging technologies, enhancing employability and innovation among young people and women. The Orange Social Venture Prize further promotes social innovation by supporting entrepreneurs using technology to address challenges in health, education, agriculture and environmental sustainability.

Environmental responsibility also features prominently in the company’s strategy, with investments in solar-powered infrastructure, energy-efficient networks, responsible e-waste management and reforestation initiatives, alongside targeted health, education, food security and water access programmes.

As it looks to the future, Orange Money has identified “innovation” as its guiding theme for the year ahead. David Mansaray underscored that advances in artificial intelligence, machine learning and digital platforms will continue to reshape financial service delivery, and the company intends to remain at the forefront of this transformation.

By expanding digital credit and merchant solutions, deepening rural financial inclusion and enhancing customer and agent experiences through data-driven insights, Orange Money aims to build a resilient and future-ready financial ecosystem.

“Through technology-led innovation, underpinned by strong governance and compliance, we are building a resilient, future-ready financial ecosystem that drives sustainable growth and long-term value creation,” David Mansaray concluded.

Attorney General Confirms Compliance with Section 108(2) of 1991 Constitution on Amendment Bill

Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Alpha Sesay Esq.

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Sierra Leone’s Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Alpha Sesay Esq., has formally confirmed compliance with Section 108(2)(a) of the 1991 Constitution in respect of the Constitution of Sierra Leone (Amendment) Bill, 2025.

The confirmation was made in a letter addressed to Hon. Osman Abdul Timbo, Member of Parliament for the Western Area Urban District, following a request dated 12th February 2026 seeking clarification on whether the constitutional procedural requirements had been met prior to the Bill’s introduction in Parliament.

In his response, the Attorney General acknowledged receipt of the request and outlined the relevant constitutional provisions guiding legislative procedure. He referenced Section 94 of the 1991 Constitution, which empowers Parliament to regulate its own procedure and make Standing Orders for the orderly conduct of its proceedings. He further cited Section 94(2), which provides that decisions, orders or directions of Parliament or the Speaker relating to parliamentary procedure shall not be inquired into by any court, underscoring the autonomy of Parliament in managing its internal processes.

Alpha Sesay emphasized that it is not within the remit of the Attorney General and Minister of Justice to determine whether Parliament has complied with its internal rules before laying a Bill for First Reading. He noted that questions concerning parliamentary procedure are better addressed to the Clerk of Parliament or the Honourable Speaker, who are constitutionally mandated to oversee and guide such matters.

“For the avoidance of doubt,” the Attorney General clarified that his office does not regulate or control proceedings in Parliament, nor does it exercise authority over the Government Printing Department or the Government Bookshop, as publication and circulation processes are managed through designated institutional channels.

However, on the specific issue of compliance with Section 108(2)(a), the Attorney General confirmed that the procedural publication requirements had been satisfied. He disclosed that his office is in receipt of:

  1. A Gazette publication of the Constitution (Amendment) Bill, 2025 dated 24th December 2025, together with the corresponding notice appearing in the Gazette of Wednesday, 24th December 2025, Volume CLXVI, No. 103; and
  2. A second publication of the same Bill dated 2nd January 2026, along with the notice in the Gazette of Friday, 2nd January 2026, Volume CLXVII, No. 1.

According to him, these publications “speak directly to the procedural requirements contemplated under Section 108(2)(a) of the Constitution,” thereby confirming that the constitutional threshold for prior publication had been met.

Section 108(2)(a) of the 1991 Constitution requires that a Bill seeking to amend the Constitution must be published in the Gazette before its introduction in Parliament, ensuring transparency and public notice in the constitutional amendment process.

The Attorney General concluded by reaffirming that his office remains guided strictly by constitutional fidelity and the rule of law, while attaching copies of the relevant Gazette publications to support his confirmation.

The response has brought clarity to ongoing discussions surrounding the procedural legitimacy of the Constitution of Sierra Leone (Amendment) Bill, 2025, particularly in relation to compliance with constitutional publication requirements prior to parliamentary consideration.

UN Women Pledges Stronger Partnership as President Bio Advances Gender Equality Agenda in Sierra Leone

His Excellency President Dr Julius Maada Bio on Wednesday 18 February 2026 received the Regional Director of UN Women for West and Central Africa, Dr Maxime Houinato, in a high-level courtesy call focused on advancing gender equality and consolidating Sierra Leone’s ongoing reforms in women’s empowerment at State Lodge, Hill Station, Freetown.

Dr. Maxime Houinato’s six-day visit to Sierra Leone is aimed at deepening strategic partnerships, reinforcing institutional collaboration and accelerating progress on gender equality initiatives, including the implementation of the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) Act and the integration of gender considerations into the constitutional review process.

Introducing the UN Women delegation at State Lodge, the Deputy Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Hindowa Buakai Bindi, described the visit as a clear demonstration of appreciation for President Bio’s leadership in championing the rights of women and girls. He noted that Sierra Leone’s reform trajectory has drawn regional and international recognition, particularly in the area of legislative transformation.

Dr. Maxime Houinato commended the Government of Sierra Leone for what he described as “landmark achievements” under President Bio’s administration. He specifically referenced the enactment of the GEWE Act and the establishment of the Gender Accountability Framework, describing both as transformative measures with far-reaching regional and global significance.

The UN Women Regional Director highlighted Sierra Leone’s growing reputation as a model for gender-responsive governance in West and Central Africa. He underscored the importance of sustained political will, strong institutional frameworks and continued collaboration between Government and development partners in maintaining reform momentum.

Dr. Maxime Houinato further reaffirmed UN Women’s commitment to supporting the Government in fully implementing the GEWE Act and strengthening systems that promote women’s participation in leadership, governance and economic empowerment. He emphasized that continued partnership would be essential in ensuring that policy gains translate into tangible improvements in the lives of women and girls.

Responding, President Julius Maada Bio expressed appreciation for UN Women’s consistent partnership and technical support. He reiterated his administration’s firm commitment to gender equality as a central pillar of the Human Capital Development agenda.

The President outlined key progress made under his Government, including expanded access to education for girls, improved national examination outcomes, the policy of allowing pregnant girls to continue their schooling and enhanced opportunities for female participation in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) programmes at tertiary institutions.

President Bio assured the delegation that his Government remains resolute in ensuring the full implementation of the GEWE Act. He also emphasized that gender priorities will be mainstreamed into the ongoing constitutional reform process, reinforcing legal and institutional safeguards for women’s rights.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to deepen collaboration, strengthen accountability mechanisms and sustain progress toward inclusive governance and equitable development across Sierra Leone.

CHRDI Raises Alarm Over “Catastrophic” Conditions at Freetown Correctional Facilities

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Campaign for Human Rights and Development International (CHRDI) has on 19 February 2026 issued a strongly worded warning following a monitoring visit conducted on 17 February 2026 to correctional facilities operated by the Sierra Leone Correctional Services (SLCS) in Freetown.

The human rights organization described the situation within the facilities as a “catastrophic breakdown of human rights, safety and basic dignity,” citing prolonged detentions without indictment, severe overcrowding, inadequate healthcare and failing security infrastructure.

According to CHRDI’s findings, dozens of detainees are being held in “safe custody” for extended periods without formal indictment. The group documented 76 males and 17 females in safe custody without official reasons or records from the Transnational Organized Crime Unit (TOCU). In addition, 385 males and 36 females were reportedly detained without indictment beyond legally permissible limits.

CHRDI noted that many of those detainees lack legal representation, describing the situation as a serious violation of the Criminal Procedure Act (CPA) and international human rights standards.

The organization also highlighted persistent judicial delays. Thirteen male inmates were said to be awaiting reserved judgments, while 205 others have faced prolonged adjournments between 2016 and 2025. Among 29 foreign nationals held at the male correctional facility, one reportedly died in February 2026 under circumstances CHRDI says were not explained to them.

The monitoring team found extreme overcrowding at the male correctional facility, which was originally built to accommodate 324 inmates but currently holds 1,802, according to correctional service records. Some cells designed for single occupancy are now housing up to 13 individuals.

CHRDI warned that such congestion heightens the risk of infectious disease transmission and makes basic hygiene and social distancing impossible.

Water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) conditions were also described as dire. The group reported an inconsistent water supply, poor sanitation facilities and inadequate nutrition for detainees. At the female correctional facility, eight children aged between zero and two years were found living with their incarcerated mothers.

Healthcare services were described as severely limited. At the male facility, 97 inmates were reported HIV-positive, while 26 had tested positive for tuberculosis. Fifteen inmates were admitted to a makeshift hospital with only 16 beds serving more than 1,000 male inmates. The clinic was said to lack essential medical equipment and supplies.

At the female unit, five hospital beds serve over 200 inmates, with five nurses assigned; sometimes only one on duty at a time. CHRDI also recorded 11 cases of mental illness across both facilities, with what it described as inadequate care.

Beyond humanitarian concerns, CHRDI reported that critical security systems, including CCTV cameras and scanners, were non-functional. Staff and inmates were reportedly exposed to naked electrical cables, and fire extinguishers were said to be poorly maintained.

The organization warned that those failures create a volatile environment, endangering both correctional officers and detainees.

CHRDI has called on the Government of Sierra Leone and the Sierra Leone Correctional Services to urgently fast-track indictments, release unlawfully detained individuals, repair security infrastructure and ensure adequate access to food, water and medical care.

The group also urged authorities to implement recommendations by the Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone (HRCSL) and other civil society actors aimed at reducing overcrowding and modernizing facilities described as dating back to the pre-independence era.

“No nation can claim progress if its correctional facilities remain centres of human degradation. Justice must be more than a legislative promise; it must be a functional reality for every Sierra Leonean,” said Abdul M. Fatoma, Chief Executive of CHRDI.

APC’s Zainab Sheriff Arrested Over Alleged Incitement

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

Popular entertainer and Chairperson of the Lappa Movement, Zainab Sheriff, has reportedly been arrested after previously being declared wanted by the Sierra Leone Police in connection with alleged offences linked to statements she made at a political gathering.

According to reports, Zainab Sheriff was apprehended on Friday morning, February 20, 2026 outside Royal Fitness and Lor Restaurant in Freetown. Her arrest follows a public notice issued by the Sierra Leone Police on February 13, 2026, declaring her wanted over allegations of threatening language, incitement and other related offences.

The allegations reportedly stem from remarks she made during the All People’s Congress (APC) Mammoth Meeting held on January 31, 2026, at the Attuoga Mini Stadium in Freetown. The meeting, which drew a large crowd of party supporters, formed part of the APC’s political engagements at the time.

Zainab Sheriff, a well-known figure in Sierra Leone’s entertainment industry, is also a member of the APC and serves as Chairperson of the Lappa Movement, a group associated with grassroots mobilization. Her dual role as both entertainer and political activist has made her a recognizable personality in national discourse.

The police declaration earlier this month indicated that her comments during the APC event were under investigation for alleged breaches of the law relating to public order and incitement. However, full details of the specific statements in question have not yet been officially disclosed.

Her arrest has since generated reactions across social media platforms, with supporters calling for due process and fairness, while others have emphasized the importance of accountability and responsible political expression.

At press time, the Sierra Leone Police had not released a detailed statement outlining the exact circumstances of the arrest or confirming whether Zainab Sheriff has been formally charged. It also remained unclear when she is expected to appear before the court.

Legal observers note that cases involving allegations of incitement and threatening language are often handled under existing public order and criminal statutes, and due process will determine the outcome of the matter.

The situation continues to develop and further updates are expected as authorities provide additional information on the case.

Orange Foundation, NaYCom Certify 70 Young Women to Boost Sierra Leone’s Digital Economy

Orange Foundation Sierra Leone, in partnership with the National Youth Commission (NaYCom), has certified 70 young women as digital professionals under the Women’s Digital Centre programme, marking another milestone in efforts to bridge the gender digital divide and strengthen Sierra Leone’s growing digital economy.

The graduation ceremony, held on Friday, 13 February 2026, at the Orange Digital Centre in Freetown, attracted senior Government officials, corporate executives, development partners and proud family members who gathered to celebrate the fifth cohort of the six-month training initiative.

Speaking at the event, Director of the Orange Foundation, Annie Wonnie Katta, disclosed that since the programme’s launch in 2021, more than 700 women have been trained across Freetown, Bo and Kenema. She noted that over 600 graduates are already transitioning into the workforce, equipped with practical digital and entrepreneurial skills.

According to her, participants underwent intensive training in computer applications, internet fundamentals, digital marketing, entrepreneurship, business management and online brand development. She further explained that recent advanced cohorts have expanded into specialized areas such as web development, 3D design, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.

Chief Executive Officer of Orange Sierra Leone, Aïcha Touré, emphasized the urgency of expanding digital inclusion, pointing out that only 5.7 percent of women in Sierra Leone are online compared to 11.4 percent of men. She described the graduating class as clear evidence that deliberate investment in women’s digital capacity can drive inclusive economic growth and reposition women as creators and innovators in the technology space.

Minister of Youth,  Ibrahim Sannoh, reaffirmed Government’s commitment to youth empowerment and digital transformation. He announced plans to pursue formal accreditation of the programme through the National Council for Technical, Vocational and Academic Awards, a move aimed at strengthening the credibility and national recognition of the certification. The Minister also encouraged the graduates to establish digital enterprises, promising ministerial recognition for outstanding early-stage innovators.

Commissioner of the National Youth Commission, Joseph Maada Lahai, stated that the initiative aligns with the objectives of the country’s Mid-Term National Development Plan, which prioritizes technology, innovation and human capital development. He pledged continued institutional support through mentorship programmes, internship opportunities, market access and financing pathways for beneficiaries.

Education sector representatives also highlighted ongoing reforms, including the establishment of technical universities offering Bachelor of Science degrees in technical disciplines, the development of a national cybersecurity curriculum and the introduction of Sierra Leone’s first micro-credential framework to formally recognize short-course certifications.

Graduates and alumni shared testimonials of personal transformation, citing improved employability, increased income opportunities and enhanced community impact as key outcomes of the programme.

Delivering remarks on behalf of the cohort, student representative, Judith Ansu, described the Digital Centre as “a gateway for ambition, confidence and leadership,” underscoring its role in advancing gender equality and national development.

With collaboration between Orange Foundation and Government partners continuing to deepen, stakeholders say the Women’s Digital Centre initiative is emerging as a scalable model for closing the gender digital gap and building a more inclusive, innovation-driven future for Sierra Leone.

 

Vice President Reconnects with UN Women Regional Director, Reaffirms Commitment to Gender Equality

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Vice President of Sierra Leone, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, on Tuesday, 17 February 2026, met with the Regional Director of UN Women for West and Central Africa, Dr. Maxime Houinato, during the latter’s first official visit to the country in his current capacity.

The meeting provided an opportunity for both leaders to reconnect and reflect on their longstanding professional relationship, which dates back to their time serving together with the United Nations in Mali. Their engagement also focused on assessing regional progress and examining the socio-political challenges shaping West and Central Africa today.

Speaking after the meeting, Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh described the engagement as a meaningful exchange of ideas and experiences. He noted that it was particularly encouraging to hear Dr. Maxime Houinato recognize Sierra Leone as a model in advancing women’s empowerment and gender equality within the region.

Central to their discussions was the implementation and impact of Sierra Leone’s Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) Act. The landmark legislation mandates a minimum 30 percent quota for women in elective and appointive positions, a significant step toward addressing gender disparities in leadership and decision-making.

The Vice President highlighted the importance of ensuring that the provisions of the GEWE Act translate into tangible improvements in the lives of women and girls across the country. He referenced the upcoming national women’s dialogue series being organized by his Office in collaboration with the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs.

The dialogue is expected to assess the implementation of the GEWE Act and collaboratively identify concrete actions to strengthen its impact. According to the Vice President, the initiative will produce a practical roadmap aimed at ensuring that the lived experiences of women align with the aspirations and objectives of the legislation.

Dr. Maxime Houinato arrived in Sierra Leone on 16 February for a five-day official mission scheduled to run until 21 February 2026. The visit was aimed at strengthening high-level partnerships between UN Women, the Government of Sierra Leone and development partners to accelerate progress on gender equality and women’s empowerment.

During his stay, the UN Women Regional Director met with His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio, selected Cabinet Ministers, members of the Diplomatic Corps and key stakeholders in the women’s rights movement. He also engaged with Civil Society Organizations, women leaders and youth activists to gain firsthand insight into their experiences, challenges and aspirations.

The visit culminated in a series of discussions with policymakers and development partners in Freetown and across the districts, bringing together actors from multiple sectors to explore practical solutions for gender-responsive development.

“This mission reaffirms UN Women’s commitment to ensuring that all women and girls in Sierra Leone can live free from violence, lead in public life and thrive economically,” Dr. Maxime Houinato stated during his visit.

Dr. Maxime Houinato previously visited Sierra Leone about a decade ago in a different capacity before his appointment as Regional Director. His mission signaled renewed efforts to fast-track partnerships, consolidate gains made under the GEWE Act and further advance gender equality initiatives in Sierra Leone.

Vice President Observes First Ramadan Jummah in Pujehun, Engages SLPP Grassroots on Decentralization Agenda

Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, joined Muslim worshippers at the Pujehun Central Mosque for the first Jummah prayer of the Holy Month of Ramadan on Friday, February 20, 2026, marking the beginning of the sacred fasting period with prayers for peace, unity and national progress.

His visit to the district coincided with the symbolic first Friday of Ramadan, a moment regarded by many Muslims as spiritually significant in setting the tone for the month of fasting, reflection and charity. On arrival in Pujehun, the Vice President was received with a Quarter Guard mounted by the 14 Infantry Battalion before proceeding to the mosque, where he was welcomed by religious leaders, elders and local authorities.

Inside the mosque,  Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh joined hundreds of worshippers ahead of the Khutbah. The Imam’s sermon focused on patience, discipline, compassion and unity, urging the faithful to use Ramadan as a period of self-examination and service to humanity. The congregation observed the prayer in a solemn and reflective atmosphere, underscoring the spiritual importance attached to the first Jummah of the holy month.

Following the prayer, the Vice President briefly addressed the congregation, calling on citizens across Sierra Leone to uphold peace and demonstrate kindness throughout the fasting period. He encouraged Muslims to extend support to the less privileged and to strengthen bonds within their families and communities. He also appealed for continued prayers for the nation and for divine guidance for leaders entrusted with advancing Sierra Leone’s development agenda, stressing that unity and collective responsibility remain essential for sustained stability and progress.

Ramadan, one of the Five Pillars of Islam, is observed by Muslims worldwide through daily fasting from dawn to sunset, increased devotion, charity and acts of goodwill. The first Friday prayer of the month traditionally draws large participation and heightened spiritual reflection.

In another development, Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh addressed grassroots supporters of the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) in Pujehun District following a successful engagement with the Council of Paramount Chiefs, as part of his mandate under Sierra Leone’s Local Government framework and his role as Chairman of the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Decentralization.

Speaking to a large gathering, he thanked residents for their turnout and explained that his visit was aimed at consulting key stakeholders ahead of a broader official engagement with the District Council and the Council of Paramount Chiefs expected before June. He noted that discussions would centre on decentralization efforts and a national development project supported by the World Bank under the leadership of President Julius Maada Bio.

The Vice President expressed appreciation for the district’s continued support for President Bio and the party, particularly during the recent lower-level elections, emphasizing that the contest was now over. He urged supporters to maintain unity and pursue political engagement in a lawful and peaceful manner, reminding them that national development must remain the shared priority.

Highlighting Government achievements, Dr.Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh pointed to the completion of the Bo–Pujehun road network, describing it as a transformative intervention that has improved transportation, enhanced trade and boosted economic activity within the district and beyond.

Orange Money Rewards Final ‘Sober Kaiba’ Winners, Launches Nationwide Ramadan Promotion

Orange Money Rewarding one of the ‘Sober Kaiba’ Winners

Orange Money has rewarded the final batch of winners under its nationwide “Sober Kaiba” promotional campaign and simultaneously launched a new Ramadan Promotion aimed at supporting customers while accelerating the adoption of digital financial services across the country.

At a well-attended prize-giving ceremony held on Thursday, 19 February 2026, the mobile financial service provider presented a range of high-value prizes to deserving customers. The awards included solar panels, two generators, five motorbikes and one tricycle. Beneficiaries emerged based on their level of transaction activity throughout the duration of the campaign.

The “Sober Kaiba” promotion, which commenced in October 2025, was designed to encourage customers to make greater use of Orange Money’s digital payment, transfer and merchant services. Participants were automatically entered into periodic prize draws by actively transacting on the platform, reinforcing the company’s drive to promote a cash-lite economy.

Speaking at the ceremony, Orange Money Chief Executive Officer, David Mansaray, commended customers for their loyalty and consistent engagement with the platform. He stated that the campaign forms part of Orange Money’s broader strategy to enhance customer experience, build trust and deepen financial inclusion nationwide.

He emphasized that regular use of mobile money services provides greater convenience, efficiency and security for users, while also contributing to the development of an accessible and inclusive financial ecosystem in Sierra Leone.

“Our customers remain at the heart of everything we do. Through initiatives like Sober Kaiba, we are not only rewarding loyalty but also encouraging the use of safe and reliable digital financial solutions that empower individuals and businesses,” David Mansaray said.

Most of the winners attended the event in person to receive their prizes. Among them was Elizabeth Marrah, who won the tricycle. She travelled from Makeni to Freetown after initially expressing skepticism about the authenticity of the congratulatory message she received.

“With this tricycle, I can improve my livelihood and support my family,” Elizabeth Marrah said, describing the prize as life-changing. She added that the experience has strengthened her confidence in Orange Money’s services.

Building on the success of the Sober Kaiba campaign, Orange Money used the occasion to unveil its Ramadan Promotion, strategically aligned with the Muslim Holy Month. The new initiative is structured to provide both economic relief and business incentives during the fasting period.

Under the Ramadan Promotion, five motorbike or tricycle riders will receive 30 litres of fuel weekly, offering practical support to transport operators whose earnings sustain many households. In addition, business owners will have the opportunity to win Le50,000 in cash.

To qualify, merchants must receive payments through their Kotoku accounts or via their registered merchant codes, thereby promoting digital payment adoption among small and medium-sized enterprises. Beyond fuel and cash rewards, selected participants will also receive food items during Ramadan as part of the company’s community support outreach.

Company representatives noted that the Ramadan Promotion underscores Orange Money’s commitment to social responsibility while advancing the use of secure and efficient digital payment solutions.

Orange Money reaffirmed that mobile financial services continue to play a critical role in Sierra Leone’s economy, particularly for small-scale traders, transport operators and individuals who rely on fast, safe and convenient digital transactions.

Through sustained customer reward initiatives and seasonal campaigns, the company says it remains focused on strengthening trust in digital finance and expanding access to financial services across both urban and rural communities nationwide.

Royal Fitness Emerges as Freetown’s Premier Hub for Modern, Professional Fitness

Royal Fitness

Royal Fitness is steadily redefining modern fitness culture in the capital, positioning itself as one of the country’s leading health and wellness centres through a blend of premium facilities, professional coaching and a strong community-driven approach to healthy living.

Strategically located along the Peninsular Highway in Juba, the facility has become a preferred destination for professionals, athletes, lifestyle enthusiasts and beginners seeking a structured and internationally aligned workout experience. Its growing public reputation is reflected in a 4.5-star rating on Google from dozens of reviews, with members frequently commending the gym’s cleanliness, modern layout, high-quality equipment and attentive customer service.

Industry observers note that Royal Fitness distinguishes itself through a holistic operational model that extends beyond conventional gym routines. The centre offers strength and weight training, functional workouts, cardiovascular programmes, group exercise sessions and recovery-focused routines such as stretching and flexibility training. This inclusive structure allows members across varying fitness levels to pursue personalized goals within a single, well-coordinated environment.

The gym has also established a strong digital presence, particularly on Instagram, where it has amassed more than 17,000 followers. Branded under the theme: “Where strength meets rhythm,” Royal Fitness integrates music-driven workouts and high-energy sessions, often featuring international DJs, to create an engaging atmosphere that resonates strongly with younger urban audiences. That fusion of fitness and entertainment has contributed significantly to its growing brand appeal.

Management places a premium on professionalism and consistency. Certified instructors and fitness coaches work closely with members to develop structured programmes aimed at improving strength, endurance, flexibility and overall wellbeing. Many clients attribute their lifestyle transformation and improved discipline to the gym’s supportive environment and systematic coaching methods.

Operating daily with extended hours until 11:00 p.m., Royal Fitness accommodates busy urban schedules, making it particularly attractive to working professionals. Visitor patterns indicate that members typically spend between one and three hours per session, reflecting a commitment to comprehensive training rather than brief workouts.

In response to rising health consciousness across Sierra Leone, the gym has announced an ambitious 2026 wellness drive focused on addressing lifestyle-related diseases through structured physical training, professional supervision and nutrition-based guidance. Management says the initiative is designed to reposition the facility as a comprehensive wellness hub that promotes long-term health outcomes rather than short-term aesthetic gains.

A spokesperson for the centre explained that sustainable wellness is achieved when physical training, mental discipline and proper nutrition work in harmony. As part of that vision, Royal Fitness has expanded its services to include nutrition and diet counselling, ensuring that members receive integrated support to enhance performance and overall health.

The facility is equipped with internationally recognized fitness brands, including Technogym and Panatta of Italy, as well as Arsenal Strength from the United States; reinforcing its commitment to global standards in performance, safety and durability.

With more Sierra Leoneans prioritizing preventive healthcare and active lifestyles, Royal Fitness stands out as a leading force in the country’s evolving wellness movement. The centre proves that high-quality, professionally guided fitness services can be delivered locally while aligning with international standards of excellence.

For membership and registration enquiries, Royal Fitness can be contacted on (+232) 90 001000.

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