By: Audrey Raymonda John
In a landmark move to enhance water service delivery and simplify bill payments, the Sierra Leone Water Company (SALWACO) has officially partnered with Rokel Commercial Bank (RCB) to launch a digital payment system. Under the theme “Paying for Clean, Safe, and Affordable Water Just Got Easier,” the initiative promotes convenient, accessible, and transparent bill payment via RCB’s digital platforms.
The event was chaired by a representative introduced by SALWACO’s Senior Communications Officer, Sheku Putka Kamara.
In his welcome address, SALWACO’s Deputy Managing Director, Apostle Dr. Albert Harrison Harvey, emphasized the company’s commitment to modernization and improved customer satisfaction through strategic partnerships. He assured attendees that the collaboration with RCB is a significant step forward and that both institutions are dedicated to achieving high service standards.
Providing an overview of the initiative, SALWACO’s Director of Commercial Services, Mr. Mohamed Aziz Waggay, highlighted the inefficiencies of previous payment systems, particularly in rural areas. “With this new digital system, payments will be easier, faster, and more convenient for our customers,” he said.
The launch brought together key stakeholders from the water, finance, and regulatory sectors.
Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of RCB, Madam Zakiatu Dickson described the partnership as a testament to the bank’s commitment to financial innovation and inclusion. “We are making bill payments more accessible to every citizen, especially those in remote areas. This collaboration reflects our shared vision for national development,” she remarked, commending SALWACO for its customer-centered approach.
Mrs. Mary Mansaray Ngegba, SALWACO’s Director of Communications, Gender & Outreach, reflected on her 20-year journey with the institution, expressing pride in its transformation through strategic collaborations.
Alpha Swaray, Director of Administration and Human Resources at the National Water Resources Management Agency (NWRMA), speaking on behalf of his Director General, welcomed the development. He called it a milestone in the water sector that would enhance financial systems and enable revenue growth to extend services across the provinces.
Hon. Sama Sandi, Deputy Director General of the Electricity and Water Regulatory Commission (EWRC), referenced the Commission’s guiding principles the “4 As”: Availability, Accessibility, Affordability, and Accountability. He praised the initiative for supporting SALWACO’s sustainability and pledged EWRC’s support in promoting the system nationwide.
RCB’s Director of Business Development, Mr. Abdul Rahman Mahdi, representing Managing Director Dr. Gilpin, emphasized that the partnership is part of the bank’s broader digital transformation. “With an RCB account, water bill payment is just a click away,” he said. He noted that even non-RCB customers can use the platform and highlighted the ease of using the Simkorpor and Rokel Mobile App for mobile payments. “This is a win for consumers, SALWACO, and RCB. Our Simkorpor team is ready to support this partnership and advance the goals of SDG 6,” Mahdi added.
Chairman of SALWACO’s Board of Directors, Mr. Joseph Joe Ndanema, lauded both institutions for the transformative partnership. “This is not just about revenue collection; it’s about improving lives and enhancing service delivery. I commend RCB and SALWACO for this forward-thinking initiative,” he stated.
In his keynote address, SALWACO’s Managing Director, Ing. George Lamin Vandi, thanked both SALWACO and RCB technical teams. He revealed that this is part of a broader digital strategy. “We’ve already partnered with Afrimoney, and in two weeks, we will announce a similar partnership with Orange Money. Our goal is to integrate more financial institutions to improve services and increase revenue,” he said.
Officially launching the Simkorpor and Rokel Mobile App, Mr. Alie Bakarr Conteh, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, representing the Minister, described the initiative as key to improving service delivery and aligning with national development goals, especially access to clean water and WASH implementation.
The event concluded with a photo session and a vote of thanks delivered by SALWACO’s Planning and Policy Manager, Chrisla Koroma.
As Sierra Leone works to address challenges in water infrastructure and accessibility, this partnership between SALWACO and Rokel Commercial Bank marks a significant advancement in making clean water more accessible and affordable through modern digital solutions.