By Alhaji Haruna Sani
Photo opps with inmates, staff of Ecobank and others
As part of its continued commitment to corporate social responsibility, Ecobank Sierra Leone donated assorted food items to female inmates at the Female Correctional Centre in Freetown on Friday, March 21, in commemoration of International Women’s Day (IWD).
The donation, which 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, was warmly received by the inmates, who expressed their gratitude for the support.
During the event, Berthan Lamin Bangura, Program Manager at Prison Watch, emphasized Ecobank’s dedication to supporting vulnerable female groups, including incarcerated women. “Ecobank understands the importance of reaching out to inmates, which is why the bank includes them among other female beneficiaries of its initiatives,” he stated.
He also praised Ecobank’s corporate social responsibility efforts, noting that due to the bank’s exceptional performance in this area, Prison Watch has adopted a policy requiring its entire staff to hold functional accounts with Ecobank.
Ecobank’s engagement in IWD celebrations extended beyond this donation. On Friday, March 7, the bank hosted a unique exhibition showcasing women-led businesses, reinforcing its commitment to female entrepreneurs. Additionally, on March 14, Ecobank donated over 50 packs of sanitary and hygiene materials to female inmates at the Sierra Leone Psychiatric Teaching Hospital in Kissy, Freetown.
Speaking at the event, Sheikh Omaru Jalloh, Head of Brand, Communications, and Marketing at Ecobank, described the bank’s ongoing IWD celebrations as a testament to its strong corporate social responsibility. “With 60% of our workforce being female, Ecobank is committed to empowering women in every sector, including those in correctional facilities,” he stated.
Legal Officer at Ecobank, Mariama Ruth Jacinta Jaycid-Sankoh, underscored the importance of this year’s IWD theme, “Accelerate Action: Advancing Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment.” She stressed that true empowerment must extend to all women, including female inmates. “How can we truly celebrate gender equality if we don’t reach out to women in prisons? Every woman deserves support and a second chance,” she remarked.
She also encouraged the inmates to embrace the gesture with gratitude, learn from their past mistakes, and remain hopeful about their future reintegration into society.
Samuella Daisy Tamba, Relationship Manager at Ecobank Customer Bank, highlighted the bank’s commitment to gender empowerment beyond just March 8. “At Ecobank, we don’t celebrate International Women’s Day for just one day; we celebrate it throughout the entire month. This is how we accelerate action for women,” she noted.
Following the presentation of the donation, the inmates rejoiced, singing songs of appreciation.
Commanding Officer of the Female Correctional Centre, Augusta T.S. Williams, expressed deep gratitude to Ecobank for its generosity. She noted that the donated food items would significantly benefit the inmates, especially ahead of the upcoming religious holidays including Eid, Easter, and Good Friday. “This will ensure that our inmates enjoy nutritious meals during these festive periods,” she said.
She also revealed that many of the inmates were actively engaged in vocational training, learning skills that would help them reintegrate into society after their sentences. “Some of these women ended up here due to a lack of formal and informal education. As the saying goes, ‘An idle mind is the devil’s workshop.’ We are working to change that narrative by equipping them with employable skills,” she added.
During the event, a selection of handmade bags crafted by the inmates was displayed, showcasing their newly acquired skills.
Crafted handbags by inmates
One of the inmates, speaking on behalf of her fellow prisoners, expressed heartfelt appreciation to Ecobank, Prison Watch, and the Directorate of Prisons. “Despite being incarcerated, you have not forgotten us. We deeply appreciate this generous gesture. Thank you for remembering us,” she said.
The event ended on a joyful note, with inmates and prison authorities celebrating the support received from Ecobank.
