By Mackie M. Jalloh
In a bold step toward strengthening financial inclusion across Sierra Leone, AfriMoney, in partnership with Cell-lo Africa, has officially launched ABOP Loan, a groundbreaking micro-loan service that enables subscribers to borrow money directly through their AfriMoney wallets. The product, unveiled at Africell’s headquarters, symbolizes a new phase in digital financial empowerment—bringing quick, reliable, and inclusive credit access to the fingertips of ordinary Sierra Leoneans.
The launch event, moderated by Abdul Karim Sesay, began with a call to order and a reflection on AfriMoney’s journey of innovation and service to the people of Sierra Leone. Sesay described the introduction of ABOP—branded under the slogan “Tross Now, Pay Later!”—as another major milestone that deepens the company’s commitment to empowering users through technology and trust.
“This marks the beginning of a new financial era,” Sesay said. “AfriMoney has always believed that innovation and technology are the driving forces of financial growth, and with ABOP, we are once again putting power directly into the hands of our customers.”
Representing Cell-lo Africa, Aaron Sarpong expressed excitement over the collaboration, describing the new service as “a bridge to hope” for Sierra Leoneans who often struggle to access traditional financial services. He emphasized that ABOP is designed to meet the everyday needs of the average consumer — from market women and students to Okada and Keke riders, small business owners, and ordinary citizens.
“Real change begins when people are met at their point of need,” Sarpong noted. “ABOP was created for moments when you just need that little push — to complete a transaction, support your trade, or handle an unexpected expense. It’s not just a loan. It’s a helping hand.”
Delivering the keynote statement, Martison Obeng-Agyei, CEO of AfriMoney, reiterated that ABOP is part of AfriMoney’s long-term vision to enhance financial inclusion by leveraging mobile technology. He explained that any AfriMoney customer can now dial *161*5*3# to check their eligibility, borrow instantly, and repay within 30 days—with a 10 percent interest rate applied on the borrowed amount.
“ABOP isn’t a large loan,” he said. “It’s a micro-loan service meant to meet you at your point of need, to give you the opportunity to complete your plans without the embarrassment of asking for help. But it’s important to borrow responsibly and to repay promptly. This ensures the service remains sustainable so that others can also benefit tomorrow.”
The CEO also thanked the Bank of Sierra Leone for granting regulatory approval, the Cell-lo Africa team for their technical and financial partnership, and AfriMoney’s dedicated technical staff who worked tirelessly to bring the service to life.
With ABOP, AfriMoney continues its legacy of innovation — from offering 10% cashbacks on EDSA top-ups to 24-hour electricity purchase options — and now, instant loans that can make a real difference in the lives of customers.
“AfriMoney is here to stay,” Obeng-Agyei declared. “We are not just another company in the market; we are a partner in progress, committed to transforming the lives of Sierra Leoneans through technology, trust, and financial empowerment.”
The event concluded with the ceremonial declaration that the ABOP Loan Service is now officially live, marking the start of a new era in mobile-driven financial access for Sierra Leoneans nationwide.
