Rokel Commercial Bank (RCB) has again earned continental recognition after being honoured at the 4th AASU–Weldios University Symposium in Rabat, Morocco, for its leadership in innovation, digital transformation and commitment to Africa’s self-reliance and youth empowerment.
The annual symposium, jointly organized by Weldios University, EPIK Leaders and the All Africa Students Union (AASU), took place from 20–24 November 2025 under the theme: “Cultivating Prosperity: Advancing Agriculture and Intra-Africa Trade for Sustainable Development.” The event brought together senior policymakers, academics, private-sector executives, thought leaders and student representatives from across the continent.
In presenting the honour, the All Africa Students Union and Weldios University commended Rokel Commercial Bank for its groundbreaking digital initiatives and for emerging as one of Africa’s forward-looking financial institutions shaping 21st-century banking through technology, human capital development and customer-centered innovation.
Although Managing Director and CEO of RCB, Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin, was unavoidably absent due to official engagements outside Sierra Leone, his keynote address was delivered by the Bank’s Head of Public Relations, Aruna Dumbuya, who represented him at the ceremony.
In his message, Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin expressed deep gratitude to Weldios University, AASU, the Government of Morocco and distinguished guests for the honour bestowed upon him and the Bank.
“This recognition accords me further opportunities to continue my work, improve my output and deepen my contribution to national and international development,” he said.
He praised Weldios University for its bilingual academic framework and its progressive dedication to fostering economic innovation, social transformation and cultural advancement across Africa, describing the institution as “an incubation centre for ideas that drive systematic development across societies.”
Turning to the symposium’s focus, Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin underscored that Africa’s path to sustainable prosperity depends heavily on modern agriculture and increased intra-continental trade. He noted the paradox of Africa holding over 60% of the world’s uncultivated arable land while still spending billions annually on food imports; an imbalance he described as both a challenge and an opportunity.
To unlock agricultural prosperity, he highlighted three crucial pillars:
- Modernization and Technology
Adoption of improved seeds, advanced irrigation, climate-smart farming techniques and the integration of digital tools, including artificial intelligence, to enhance productivity.
- Infrastructure Investment
Improving road networks, energy supply, storage facilities and logistics to reduce post-harvest losses and enable market access.
- Value Addition
Shifting from exporting raw produce to processing and manufacturing to significantly increase revenue, create jobs and strengthen industries.
Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin also stressed the transformative potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which aims to eliminate barriers and create a unified trade market. He referenced digital financial systems such as the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS); a platform Rokel Commercial Bank is fully integrated into through its Simkorpor Plus App; as critical tools for enabling seamless intra-African commerce.
“Cultivating prosperity in Africa is not a distant dream; it is an achievable goal within our grasp,” he emphasized. “The road ahead requires bold action, sustained commitment and above all, collaboration.”
He congratulated all graduating students, awardees and the leadership of Weldios University and AASU for their dedication to advancing African development.
The ceremony was attended by several eminent figures, including:
- Ziad El Idriss, President, EPIK Leaders INESSA
- Mahmoud Cherkaoui, President, I’association
- Mohamed Japuad El Qasmi, Director
- Illiass Boualamia, Chief of Internal Relations, EPIK Leaders
- Khouloud Mabrouk, Media Advisor
- Boucher Bayed, Consultant
- Ahmed Senhaji, Chief of Alumni Relations
- Nizar Chaari, Founder
- Trésor Botembe, Vice President, Partnership
- Ugo Magnus Kel (PhD), Registrar & Chairman, Board Committee, Weldios University
- Osisiogu Osikenyi, President
- Engr. Dr. Darlington Ugota, Chairman, Esthington Group
The accolade marks another significant milestone for Rokel Commercial Bank, reinforcing its position as a continental leader in digital banking, financial innovation and human capital development as it continues to expand its influence across Africa.
