By Aminata Abu Bakarr Kamara
Ecobank Sierra Leone has once again demonstrated its commitment to corporate social responsibility by extending much-needed support to female inmates at the Female Correctional Centre in Freetown. On March 21, 2025, the bank made a generous donation of essential food items, reinforcing its dedication to empowering vulnerable women and continuing its observance of International Women’s Day (IWD).
The donation included five jerry cans of cooking oil, ten 50kg bags of parboiled rice, two large bags of onions, bags of gari, and two cartons of sachet milk—a contribution that was warmly received by the inmates, who expressed their heartfelt gratitude for the unexpected support.
Speaking at the donation ceremony, Berthan Lamin Bangura, Program Manager at Prison Watch, commended Ecobank for its continuous efforts to uplift marginalized women, including those in correctional facilities. “Ecobank understands the importance of extending its support beyond the corporate world. This donation is just one example of the bank’s broader commitment to social impact,” he noted.
He also praised Ecobank’s exceptional corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, highlighting how its dedication to community development had inspired Prison Watch to encourage its staff to hold accounts with the bank.
Beyond this initiative, Ecobank has been actively championing women’s empowerment in various ways. On March 7, 2025, the bank hosted an exhibition celebrating women-led businesses, providing a platform for female entrepreneurs. In addition, just days before the donation to the Female Correctional Centre, Ecobank extended its generosity to female inmates at the Sierra Leone Psychiatric Teaching Hospital in Kissy, donating over 50 packs of sanitary and hygiene materials.
Sheikh Omaru Jalloh, Head of Brand, Communications, and Marketing at Ecobank, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to gender equality, stating, “With 60% of our workforce being female, Ecobank remains steadfast in supporting women across all sectors, including those in correctional facilities. We believe in giving every woman a chance, regardless of her circumstances.”
Legal Officer Mariama Ruth Jacinta Jaycid-Sankoh echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of this year’s IWD theme: “Accelerate Action: Advancing Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment.” She stressed that true gender equality must include all women, even those behind bars. “We cannot talk about women’s empowerment while neglecting incarcerated women. Every woman deserves support and a second chance,” she said.
She further encouraged the inmates to embrace the donation with gratitude and to use their time in prison as an opportunity for personal growth and rehabilitation.
Samuella Daisy Tamba, Relationship Manager at Ecobank, emphasized that the bank’s commitment to celebrating women extends beyond just one day. “At Ecobank, we don’t celebrate International Women’s Day for just one day—we celebrate it every day, throughout the entire month. Our goal is to accelerate action for women in all spaces,” she stated.
The donation event was marked by a moment of joy as the inmates sang songs of appreciation, a heartfelt expression of gratitude for Ecobank’s generosity.
Commanding Officer of the Female Correctional Centre, Augusta T.S. Williams, lauded Ecobank for its timely donation, noting that the food supplies would go a long way in ensuring that inmates receive nutritious meals, especially during upcoming religious celebrations such as Eid, Easter, and Good Friday.
Williams also highlighted ongoing efforts to rehabilitate the inmates through vocational training programs, equipping them with valuable skills for life after prison. “Many of these women ended up here due to a lack of formal education and economic opportunities. We are working hard to change that by providing them with employable skills,” she stated.
The event also featured a display of handmade bags crafted by the inmates, showcasing the impact of their training and the potential for their reintegration into society.
In a touching moment, an inmate speaking on behalf of her fellow prisoners expressed deep appreciation for Ecobank’s support. “Despite being incarcerated, you have not forgotten us. We are truly grateful for this generous gesture. Thank you for remembering us,” she said.
As the event came to a close, both inmates and prison authorities celebrated Ecobank’s unwavering commitment to making a difference in the lives of women in correctional facilities. This initiative serves as a powerful reminder that no one should be overlooked, and every woman—regardless of her circumstances—deserves dignity, support, and the opportunity for a better future.