Freetown, 31st March, 2026- Sierra Leone took a bold step toward cementing its role as a regional financial hub on Tuesday as President Dr. Julius Maada Bio officially commissioned the new headquarters of the West African Insurance Companies Association Reinsurance Corporation (WAICA Re) PLC.

The gleaming headquarters, perched at Hill Station, is more than just a building—it is a symbol of Sierra Leone’s determination to anchor regional investment and financial cooperation. The commissioning fulfills a promise dating back to 2011, when WAICA Re was first established in the country, and now signals Sierra Leone’s readiness to match digital ambition with physical infrastructure.

“This occasion is a significant milestone for Sierra Leone, WAICA Re, and the broader West African financial sector,” President Bio declared in his keynote address. He reaffirmed government’s commitment to providing a stable legal and regulatory environment, stressing that Sierra Leone remains open to credible, long-term investment. “We welcome institutions that contribute to regional cooperation and economic resilience,” he said.

Group Managing Director and CEO, Abiola E. Ekundayo, hailed the new headquarters as a testament to WAICA Re’s growth and long-term commitment to Africa. “This building is not just bricks and mortar—it is a symbol of our expanding footprint across the continent and beyond,” he noted.

Group Chairman Kofi Duffuor praised Sierra Leone’s leadership for hosting the institution and upholding agreements. He described President Bio’s support as a demonstration of confidence in building strong, enduring regional institutions.

For Sierra Leone, the commissioning is more than ceremonial. It positions the country as a credible player in the regional financial services market, strengthening its reputation as a gateway for investment in West Africa.