By Alhaji Haruna Sani
On Saturday, July 20th, Ecobank Sierra Leone hosted its first Junior Savers Account Conference at the Freetown City Council, gathering over 200 pupils from various educational institutions.
Speaking at the event, Kate Thompson, Manager, Junior Savers Account and Money Management division, representing Ecobank Managing Director, Sebastian Ashong-Katai highlighted Ecobank’s presence in Sierra Leone since 2006 and the numerous benefits the event brought to active and potential account holders.
She emphasized the bank’s commitment to the overall development of Sierra Leone, starting with its youth. “Today, when you take the population of Sierra Leone, we know that the average age is about 19 years, which means that the future will have many young people shaping it,” she said.
Thompson elaborated on the bank’s focus on young children, introducing an account type specifically designed for them. She stressed the importance of instilling the habit of saving early, ensuring a secure future for these children.
The timing of the event coincided with the school break, making it an opportune moment to engage with the children and turn them into ambassadors for financial literacy.
Detailing the Junior Savers Account, Thompson explained that accounts could be opened from birth and maintained for life, with account holders having access to Ecobank’s presence in 33 African countries. The bank also offers advisory services and insurance products, providing a comprehensive safety net for account holders.
“This account is one that parents or guardians can also manage through their mobile devices, allowing for easy funding from their main accounts,” Thompson added. She emphasized that all of the bank’s digital platforms are accessible to Junior Savers Account holders, facilitating easy account management.
Thompson highlighted the bank’s unique approach to financial education, stating, “I don’t think this has happened here before in terms of banks organizing something like this for children.” She noted that throughout their lives, account holders would receive financial advice, birthday messages, and tips on financial management via SMS.
During the event, children participated in competitive games, oral contributions, and seminars, which assessed their understanding of the bank’s services. Parents expressed their satisfaction with the bank’s initiative. Christiana Banya praised Ecobank’s excellence and encouraged other parents to open accounts for themselves and their children to take advantage of the numerous benefits.
The conference underscored Ecobank’s dedication to fostering financial literacy and securing a prosperous future for the youth of Sierra Leone.
