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Rokel Commercial Bank has marked the 7th anniversary of its annual tree planting initiative at Patefu Kangalop Village in Koya Chiefdom, reaffirming its commitment to environmental protection, climate resilience, and sustainable community development in Sierra Leone.
The event, held on Friday, 22nd May 2026, was observed under the theme “Building Legacy, One Tree at a Time” and brought together bank officials, community leaders, environmental stakeholders, youth groups, and residents of Patefu Village.
Since its launch in 2019, the initiative has formed part of the bank’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme aimed at supporting national and global efforts to address climate change, deforestation, and land degradation through sustained afforestation activities.
Speaking during the commemoration, the Managing Director of Rokel Commercial Bank, Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin, emphasized the importance of tree planting in improving air quality, protecting water sources, reducing soil erosion, and strengthening ecosystem resilience. He noted that the initiative also focuses on educating communities on environmental stewardship and sustainable living.
Representing the Governor of the Bank of Sierra Leone, Mr. John Tucker commended Rokel Commercial Bank for its sustained commitment to environmental protection beyond its core banking operations. He noted that climate change and environmental degradation remain global challenges requiring collective action from both public and private institutions.
He further stated that the Bank of Sierra Leone encourages financial institutions to integrate CSR initiatives into their operations, describing the tree planting project as a model that promotes environmental conservation and climate resilience. He added that environmental protection is closely linked to economic sustainability, public health, and national development.
Also speaking at the event, the Chief Executive Officer of Keeping Hope Alive, Madam Neneh Tunis, described the initiative as a symbol of the bank’s long-term dedication to building a greener and healthier future. She said each tree planted represents hope and resilience in the fight against climate change.
Madam Tunis emphasized that environmental protection is a shared responsibility, calling on citizens, institutions, and young people to take active roles in preserving natural resources. She added that sustainable development can only be achieved through strong collaboration between communities and corporate partners.
“Keeping hope alive means investing in the future of our communities and ensuring that the next generation inherits a safer, greener, and healthier Sierra Leone,” she stated.
She also commended the people of Patefu Village for their continued support over the years and reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to expanding its CSR initiatives focused on environmental education, climate resilience, and community empowerment.
The ceremony featured symbolic tree planting activities, environmental awareness engagements, and interactions between bank staff and community members, with participants calling for increased national support for environmental conservation efforts.
