Rokel Commercial Bank Opens New Branch in Waterloo, Expanding Access to Financial Services
Waterloo, Sierra Leone – 19th August 2025 – In a move hailed as a breakthrough for financial inclusion in Sierra Leone, Rokel Commercial Bank (RCBank) has officially opened a new branch in Waterloo, the bustling headquarters of the Western Area Rural District.
For years, many residents of Waterloo and neighboring communities have faced the challenge of traveling long distances into Freetown to carry out even the simplest banking transactions. The launch of this new branch means customers will now have direct access to a full suite of modern banking services in their own community—saving time, cutting costs, and easing frustrations.
Community members at the event described the opening as a “historic milestone” for an area with a large and fast-growing population but limited access to financial services.
A Fastest-Growing Bank
The new branch comes barely a month after RCBank opened another at Cline Town in eastern Freetown, reflecting the Bank’s rapid expansion drive. This pace of growth has reinforced the institution’s reputation as the fastest-growing financial institution in Sierra Leone.
According to Mr. Sajoh Bah, Director of Banking Supervision, Rokel Commercial Bank has firmly established itself as a trailblazer in the industry. Speaking at the launch, he commended the Bank’s leadership for strategically positioning itself to serve Sierra Leoneans across all regions.
“Rokel Commercial Bank has proven to be a genuine partner in Sierra Leone’s development,” Mr. Bah said. “The opening of this branch brings banking closer to the people, and I encourage the Waterloo community to patronize their own bank—an indigenous bank that is here to serve.”
Commitment to Growth and Market Leadership
Managing Director of RCBank, Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin, underscored management’s unwavering commitment to growth, innovation, and customer satisfaction. He explained that the Bank’s expansion strategy is rooted in a vision of financial inclusion and community empowerment.
“This bank belongs to the people of Sierra Leone,” Dr. Gilpin said passionately. “Our focus is people-centered. We want every Sierra Leonean—from the businesswoman in the market to the young graduate—to feel that Rokel Commercial Bank is theirs. This new branch in Waterloo is another step in that journey.”
Dr. Gilpin emphasized that the Bank’s philosophy goes beyond profit-making, pointing to its continuous investment in customer-friendly digital platforms, community engagement, and product innovation tailored to the needs of ordinary Sierra Leoneans.
A Strong Show of Institutional Support
The opening ceremony attracted prominent personalities including RCBank Board Chairman, Mr. John Sumaila, Board Member Rev. Archer Campbell, representatives from the Armed Forces Training Center (AFTC), and officials from the Western Area Rural District Council.
Their attendance, according to observers, reflected the broad recognition of RCBank’s central role in Sierra Leone’s financial sector and national development. Board Chairman Mr. Sumaila reiterated the Bank’s mission to extend financial access to underserved communities, while also pledging continuous support to ensure the Waterloo branch becomes a hub for local economic activity.
A Catalyst for Local Development
For the people of Waterloo, the branch represents more than just a financial outlet. It is seen as a catalyst for development—empowering traders, farmers, teachers, students, and small business owners to access affordable financial services that can help them grow.
Local entrepreneurs welcomed the move, noting that access to loans, savings, and other banking products will significantly reduce reliance on informal moneylenders who often charge exploitative rates. Residents also highlighted the potential for job creation, improved savings culture, and greater financial literacy.
Observers noted that the presence of the new branch could also encourage more formal business activities in Waterloo, boost tax revenues, and attract future investments into the district.
Driving Financial Inclusion Nationwide
The Waterloo branch opening reflects RCBank’s larger ambition to be at the forefront of financial inclusion in Sierra Leone. With its growing branch network and investment in digital banking, the Bank is working to bridge the gap between urban and rural populations.
Financial analysts believe that RCBank’s strategy is setting new industry standards by combining aggressive expansion with a strong emphasis on customer care and innovation. This, they say, has positioned the Bank not just as a commercial player but also as a partner in national development.
Looking Ahead
As Rokel Commercial Bank continues to spread its footprint across Sierra Leone, the opening of the Waterloo branch stands as a powerful reminder of the institution’s resilience, vision, and commitment to its customers.
For the people of Waterloo and surrounding areas, the days of long journeys into Freetown for banking transactions are finally over. Instead, they now have access to a reliable financial institution that is dedicated to supporting their aspirations and building a stronger, more inclusive economy.
