Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin, the Managing Director, of Rokel Commercial Bank, Sierra Leone, has received a Special US Congressional Commendation Award. In recognition of his substantial contributions to finance and banking, leadership, and innovative policies. Along with women’s empowerment through MSMEs, and the growth of Rolek Commercial Bank in Sierra Leone. Aimed at establishing significant and sustained contributions to the development and dissemination of ethical principles. The Managing Director was honoured during the 8th African Business Leadership Awards (ABLA). Which was held on July 11th, 2023, at The Dorchester Hotel, Mayfair, London, United Kingdom.
Dr. Gilpin is a seasoned and internationally recognised financial expert. With over 27 years of experience managing complex policies and processes in banking and banking-related institutions in Africa, Europe, the South Pacific, the Caribbean, and the United States. Since taking over the reins of office in July 2017 as CEO of the Rokel Commercial Bank, he has turned the Bank into a profit-making and viable institution, which is now enviably the second most profitable Bank in Sierra Leone.
The Special US Congressional Commendation Award is a special recognition of the outstanding contributions of Africa’s topmost Business Leaders. For providing leadership and innovative policies, programmes, and actions that have helped stabilise many challenged national economies in Africa. While driving recovery and stimulating growth, even when slow, amidst global economic shocks. A programme to recognise exceptional corporate practises and outstanding achievements in the African business landscape. As well as contributions to the continent’s inclusive socio-economic growth and development. The magazine listed some distinguished Africans for this award.
Some of the key guests at the summit include His Royal Majesty, Ogiame Otuwatse III, Olu of Warri, Nigeria. Hon. Dr. Renganaden Padayachy, Minister of Finance, Economic Planning and Development, Mauritius. H.E. Rindra Hasimbelo, Rabarinirinarison, Minister for Economy and Finance, Madagascar. Hon. Johnny Ohisa Damian, Governor, Bank of South Sudan. Hon. Cllr. Jonathan Fonati Koffa, Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Liberia; Baroness Sandy Verma, Member of the UK House of Lords. Lord Dolar Popat, Member of the UK House of Lords. Mrs. Josidy, CEO, Economic Development Board of Madagascar. Prof. Muhammed Bello Abubakar, Managing Director/CEO, Galaxy Backbone Limited, Nigeria; and others.
