By Hassan Osman Kargbo
Sierra Leone’s Rokel Commercial Bank Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dr Walton Ekundayo Gilpin, has reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to a strong, principled and mutually beneficial partnership with the media, describing journalists as critical partners in national development, financial literacy and economic stability.
Dr Gilpin made the statement during the RCBank Meet and Greet with Members of the Fourth Estate held in Freetown, where he emphasized that the relationship between the bank and the media must be grounded in trust, honesty, professionalism and shared responsibility. He stressed that constructive criticism should be viewed as an opportunity for growth rather than an attack on institutions.
According to him, the media plays a central role in shaping public perception, not only of institutions but of the country as a whole. He noted that how Sierra Leoneans are portrayed by their own media influences how they are perceived internationally, including how citizens are treated when they travel, conduct business or seek global partnerships.
Dr Gilpin said Rokel Commercial Bank’s mission goes beyond profit making, as it is deeply rooted in promoting sound financial management and financial literacy among citizens. He explained that empowering people to understand savings, credit, investment and long term planning is essential for sustainable economic growth, and that this goal cannot be achieved without a knowledgeable and responsible media that can simplify complex banking concepts for the public.
He made it clear that the bank does not expect the media to abandon its watchdog role, but rather to engage critically and constructively. He noted that while disagreements between institutions and journalists are inevitable, they must be driven by facts, balance and national interest, rather than sensationalism or personal attacks.
Reflecting on the past, Dr Gilpin recalled a period when Rokel Commercial Bank struggled with inefficiency, internal challenges and public mistrust, leading many Sierra Leoneans to favor foreign owned banks. He said local banks were once viewed with skepticism, while international banks dominated the financial sector.
He explained that his appointment marked a turning point, guided by a deliberate vision to rebuild confidence, professionalism and global standards within the bank. Drawing from his international experience across several continents, he said his goal was to transform RCBank into a competitive institution capable of standing alongside any bank globally.
Central to this transformation, he said, was the decision to engage the media as a strategic partner rather than an adversary. He noted that rebuilding the bank required transparency, openness and the willingness to tell its story truthfully, including both achievements and challenges.
Dr Gilpin said RCBank now operates strictly on sound banking principles, strong regulatory compliance and rigorous financial analysis, with all activities subjected to risk assessment and solvency tests. He highlighted the bank’s role in financial intermediation, digital transactions and economic stability, linking a strong banking sector to national stability.
He urged journalists to build capacity in financial reporting and economic analysis so public discourse can be based on facts rather than speculation. He also reminded media practitioners that in a digital age, local stories quickly become global narratives.
He concluded by thanking members of the Fourth Estate for their continued engagement, reaffirming RCBank’s commitment to openness, accountability and partnership in projecting a stronger and more credible Sierra Leone.
