By Lamin Bangura
On Wednesday, 28th January 2026, EcoBank Sierra Leone Limited and Icona London officially launched a landmark partnership through an asset financing signing ceremony at 184 Wilkinson Road in Freetown, Icona’s new Outlet. The event marked a significant commitment to expanding access to financial solutions designed to empower individuals and businesses across Sierra Leone.
Sheikh Umaru Jalloh, welcoming esteemed stakeholders and partners from Icona London, emphasized that the collaboration represents an important step in providing solutions that enable the acquisition of essential assets to drive economic growth and development. EcoBank remains dedicated to delivering innovative financial products that support entrepreneurship and sustainable development.
Kate Thompson, Head of Consumer Banking at EcoBank, explained the bank’s driven purpose to make financial services more accessible. She detailed that the partnership directly addresses a core market need by providing a “buy now, pay later” solution for home appliances and electronics. Customers can receive items instantly and pay in manageable installments over a period of up to 36 months. The financing can cover up to 100% of an item’s value, supporting purchases ranging from household refrigerators and microwaves to office equipment like photocopiers for SMEs. Thompson clarified that qualifying is straightforward for EcoBank current account holders, who can speak to their relationship officer.
Representing Icona, Marketing Manager, Kai Pengusaquee, stressed the company’s mandate of accessibility and affordability. He highlighted Icona’s nationwide presence, ensuring quality products are available from Freetown to Kono, Bo, Makani Kenema without customers having to travel great distances. He acknowledged that affordability remains a key challenge, which this financing partnership directly solves by enabling installment payments. He praised EcoBank’s longstanding legacy and expressed confidence in a sustainable, systematic partnership aimed at making a tangible difference.
Icona’s Country Director, Jayesh Pradhi, stated that the launch is a proud moment focused on empowerment and inclusion. He noted that the asset financing loan removes a major barrier, allowing hardworking people to immediately take home needed products like televisions and refrigerators through flexible plans. He affirmed that the initiative is designed for every Sierra Leonean, in every region, dreaming of a better home and future, and thanked EcoBank for sharing this vision.
In a keynote address, an Executive Director of EcoBank, Mr. Victor Williams, described the ceremony as more than a signing; it is a pact for progress and practical solutions. He reiterated EcoBank’s purpose to drive Africa’s economic transformation through innovative and inclusive financial solutions. He stated that access to essential assets is a necessity, and this partnership with Icona a brand poised to be an icon in its market makes appliances more accessible by removing upfront cost barriers. The initiative is designed to impact households, SMEs, and corporate clients, aligning with EcoBank’s broader strategy of financial inclusion and economic resilience.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Marion Sesay of EcoBank, who expressed appreciation to both companies for the initiative aimed at helping customers access affordable and durable electrical appliances. The ceremony also included a raffle draw, with lucky winners receiving appliances such as a refrigerator, a 12,000 BTU AC unit, and a laundry machine. The launch solidifies a shared commitment to building a stronger, more prosperous future for Sierra Leone.