In the wake of a significant rise in fraudulent practices and cyber security threats across Sierra Leonean companies, the banking sector has been particularly vulnerable. The performance of the banking industry is not just about its financial returns but also about the services it renders to the public. However, the growing menace of cyber security threats has adversely impacted the performance of banks in Sierra Leone.

In light of these challenges, Rokel Commercial Bank (RCBank) is partnering with EST Applied Intelligence UK to host the first-ever Cyber Security and Financial Inclusion symposium on February 22, 2024, at the Freetown City Council Auditorium Hall. This symposium aims to enhance awareness and understanding of financial inclusion and cyber security in Sierra Leone.

EST Applied Intelligence is a specialized enterprise in security consultancy, boasting a team of forward-thinking experts with deep domain knowledge in cyber security. The symposium will bring together leading cyber security industry professionals, government officials, financial institutions, telecommunication companies, and industry regulators. The focus will be on the importance of maintaining cyber vigilance across various business technology touchpoints for secure data exchange.

Dr. Ekundayo Gilpin, the Managing Director of RCBank, emphasized the bank's commitment to digital transformation in Sierra Leone. He acknowledged the gap in digital banking expectations and deliverables in the country and believes that the banking sector can lead the way. RCBank has already made significant strides in supporting financial transactions for vulnerable populations and partnering with telecom companies like Orange and Africell.

The symposium is timely, given the recent fraudulent activities that have affected thousands of Sierra Leoneans, including university students, traders, and public transport operators. The UK-based EST Applied Intelligence specializes in Security Strategy and Leadership, Security Improvement Programme, Security Portfolio and Programme Management, Security Risk Management, Security Assessment, Security Risk Diagnostics, Architecture Review, Security Awareness, among others.

RCBank is proactive in addressing cyber security threats, ensuring administrative efficiency and financial discipline to provide accessible banking services to Sierra Leoneans. The bank's trajectory is towards financial inclusion, aiming to bring investors and debtors together to enhance confidence in Sierra Leone’s banking sector.

This symposium underscores the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors, international partners, and local institutions to combat cyber security threats and promote financial inclusion in Sierra Leone. It is a step towards securing the digital future of the country's banking industry and ensuring the protection of citizens' hard-earned money.