By: Aaron Parker
One of the leading commercial banks in Sierra Leone, Rokel Commercial Bank (SL) Limited, officially opened a new outlet on Prince William Street in Bo City on Friday, July 5, 2024. The ceremony was well-attended by top dignitaries from the banking, financial sectors, and governance.
In his welcome address, Alpha Barrie, Manager of Rokel Commercial Bank Bo Branch, emphasized that the new outlet extends from the main branch on Bo John Street, aligning with the MD’s vision of financial inclusion by bringing banking services closer to customers. He highlighted that this expansion underscores their commitment to enhancing accessibility.
The MD and CEO of Rokel Commercial Bank Dr. Ekundayo Walton Gilpin acknowledged the legacy of Dr. Yilla and credited the bank’s growth in Bo to his association. He noted that Rokel is pioneering with its second branch in Bo, enhancing service delivery beyond the main branch and setting a precedent for other banks.
He appreciated the presence of fellow bankers, emphasizing collaboration to strengthen the sector’s impact on Sierra Leone’s economy. Highlighting the pivotal role of banks in financial transactions across sectors, he underscored the significance of this new outlet in fostering economic growth and opportunities.
Dr. Gilpin stressed the importance of digitalization in mitigating cash-related risks and supporting government policies. He underscored Rokel Bank’s commitment as a government-supported institution dedicated to serving the public.
Giving the keynote address on behalf of the Bank Governor, Mr. Morlai Kamara, a director at the Bank of Sierra Leone, commended RCBank for opening the new outlet, which supports the government’s efforts to enhance financial inclusion. He noted that RCBank is one of Sierra Leone’s largest indigenous banks in terms of assets, customers, and deposits.
Mr. Kamara highlighted that the Bank of Sierra Leone is committed to partnering with financial institutions to improve services and ensure the protection of depositors’ funds. He underscored the crucial role of banks in economic development by mobilizing savings and providing loans for various sectors such as commerce, agriculture, and industry.
Other notable statements during the opening included a senior member of the community, Dr. Yilla (Momodu), who commended RC Bank for its support of Sierra Leonean businesses and its role in fostering business growth. He highlighted the innovative step of having two Rokel outlets in Bo and emphasized Rokel’s longstanding support for the community, noting that it is a responsive bank.
Alusine Kamara, a renowned businessman with over 30 years of experience, mentioned that despite dealing with almost all banks in Sierra Leone, his business has seen significant positive changes since joining Rokel Bank 6 to 7 years ago. He praised RC Bank for its readiness to support serious business ventures, stating that since partnering with them, his business has flourished.
Alphonso Abdulai from the Luc-Bo Police Division assured RC Bank of their readiness to provide security whenever necessary.
The Resident Minister of the Southern Province praised RC Bank for its hospitality and excellent customer service, expressing familiarity with the bank from longstanding dealings. He specifically mentioned the exceptional professionalism of the staff at the Bo Branch in their interactions with customers.
The ceremony concluded with a traditional libation ceremony and the unveiling of the new outlet’s name by the Mayor of Bo City Council. The official ribbon-cutting was performed by Mr. Morlai Kamara, symbolizing the inauguration of the new facility.
Senior management and guests were given a tour of the new outlet, providing first-hand insight into RCBank’s newest addition to the Bo community.
