By Hassan Osman Kargbo
Residents of Waterloo and surrounding communities will no longer have to endure the long and often stressful journey into Freetown to access formal banking services, as Rokel Commercial Bank (RCBank) has officially opened a new branch in the bustling headquarters of the Western Area Rural District.
The new branch, launched Tuesday 18th August, marks a significant milestone for the bank and for the people of Waterloo. For years, this fast-growing community has faced challenges in accessing reliable financial services despite its large and expanding population. The presence of RCBank is now expected to ease such difficulties, providing residents and businesses with convenient access to modern banking facilities.
Speaking during the ceremony, the Director of Banking Supervision, Sajoh Bah, described the event as a landmark development for Sierra Leoneβs financial sector. He commended RCBankβs consistent growth and innovation, noting that the bank has become a βmajor trailblazerβ in expanding access to financial services across the country. Bah encouraged the people of Waterloo to take ownership of the branch and patronize what he described as a truly indigenous institution committed to national development.
RCBank Managing Director, Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin, reiterated his managementβs determination to pursue steady growth and market leadership. He stressed that the bankβs vision remains centered on the people, with products and services designed to meet the unique needs of its customers. βThis bank is yours. Own it, use it, and grow with it,β Dr. Gilpin told residents, adding that RCBankβs strategy is anchored in bringing banking closer to underserved communities.
The opening of the Waterloo branch comes just a month after the bank inaugurated a new branch in Cline Town, eastern Freetown, further cementing RCBankβs reputation as the fastest-growing financial institution in Sierra Leone. For many observers, these rapid expansions reflect a deep commitment to financial inclusion and national development.
The ceremony was attended by RCBank Board Chairman John Sumaila, board member Rev. Archer Campbell, representatives from the Armed Forces Training Center (AFTC), and officials from the Western Area Rural Council. Local residents also turned out in large numbers to celebrate what many described as a transformative development for Waterloo.
Community members expressed excitement, noting that the new branch would save time, reduce transport costs, and enhance business opportunities for traders, students, and professionals alike. With this latest expansion, RCBank is positioning itself not only as a financial service provider but also as a partner in community growth and empowerment.
As the branch officially opens its doors, the people of Waterloo now look forward to accessing new and innovative banking products without leaving their communityβushering in a new chapter of financial inclusion for the Western Area Rural District.
