Mrs. Sangeetha Ramkelawon, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director of BCP Bank (Mauritius), is the first Mauritian woman to hold the CEO position in the banking industry in Mauritius. With her inclusive and growth-oriented leadership focused on collaboration, trust  and innovation, she leads BCP Bank (Mauritius) at the forefront of the financial sector.

With over 20 years of international experience in finance, she has been instrumental in the  bank’s growth and transformation, especially during its integration into the pan-African  Groupe Banque Centrale Populaire. 

Women’s Tabloid had the privilege to engage in an insightful conversation with her,  exploring her journey, discussing investment trends, and gleaning her views on career in banking. This Q&A reveals not only her professional achievements but also her dedication to mentoring and encouraging the next generation of female leaders in Mauritius and beyond. 

Women’s Tabloid: BCP Bank (Mauritius) Ltd is part of a strong pan-African banking group. What unique  advantages does this bring to clients in Mauritius and beyond? 

Sangeetha Ramkelawon: As part of Groupe Banque Centrale Populaire (BCP) – one of Africa’s largest banking groups  with a presence in over 30 countries – BCP Bank (Mauritius) Limited offers clients far more  than traditional banking services. We bring on-the-ground expertise, deep local insights and,  above all, connectivity. Thanks to our understanding of regional dynamics, and the trusted  relationships we have built across the group’s network of subsidiaries, we are able to  facilitate meaningful connections between businesses, investors, traders, and other  stakeholders. From promoting trade and investment flows to enabling corporate clients to  expand into new markets and serving private banking clients, we are committed to building  bridges that foster mutual growth. For businesses in Mauritius, this means access to  financing, trade corridors, and banking solutions tailored for regional expansion. For our  clients beyond Mauritius, it means a trusted partner who understands – and navigates – the  complexities of operating in diverse African markets, including the Indian Ocean, with our  Group’s leading presence in Madagascar. 

WT: With BCP Group present in over 30 countries, what investment trends do you see  shaping Africa’s economic future, and how is the bank positioned to support them? 

SR: Africa’s economic future is being shaped not just by trends, but also by a necessary shift in  mindset. As we look ahead to the African CEO Conference in Abidjan this May, the  conversation is already turning toward the growing pressures facing the continent – from  tightening access to capital and rising debt-servicing costs, to the retreat of traditional  development aid. In this changing environment, the private sector is emerging as Africa’s 

real engine of resilience. Economic strength will increasingly depend on agricultural self sufficiency, financial innovation, digital acceleration, and a renewed focus on industrialisation — areas where businesses and financial institutions can lead the way.  

Sustainable financing is also gaining traction, especially in the areas of renewable energy  and ESG-aligned infrastructure. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) also has the potential to unlock unprecedented levels of intra-African trade — provided the right infrastructure and political will are in place. Thanks to the strong regional footprint of BCP,  BCP Bank (Mauritius) is actively supporting this transformation. Our trade finance expertise  helps ease cross-border operations, while our syndicated financing supports green and  strategic infrastructure projects across the continent. We are also investing in technological  platforms to make our services more accessible and align them with the needs of African  businesses. We see ourselves not just as a financial partner, but as a connector and enabler  of long-term, sustainable growth. 

WT: How do you see Mauritius playing a key role in linking African markets with global  investors, particularly from Asia? 

SR: Mauritius stands out as a vital financial hub connecting Africa and Asia thanks to its strategic  geographic location, well-established legal and regulatory frameworks, and robust financial  infrastructure. The country offers a secure environment for cross-border investments and  business activities, making it a natural gateway for Asian investors looking to tap into African  markets. Beyond these advantages, Mauritius, as an International Financial Centre (IFC),  brings over more than 30 years of expertise in structuring international investments. This  well-established ecosystem – comprising a network of financial institutions, law firms and  management companies – enables seamless access to both African and Asian markets. This  connectivity is pivotal for investors seeking opportunities across the two continents,  particularly in high-growth sectors such as infrastructure, renewable energy, and technology. Whether looking to invest in Africa or venture into Asia, BCP Bank supports clients in navigating the complexities of both markets. We position ourselves as a key partner in helping clients seize cross-continental growth and collaboration opportunities. 

WT: The Comprehensive Economic Cooperation and Partnership Agreement (CECPA)  between India and Mauritius presents new opportunities. How is BCP Bank helping  clients structure investments from India to Africa? 

SR: The CECPA between India and Mauritius serves as a robust framework for strengthening  bilateral trade and investment flows. By leveraging the strategic position of Mauritius as an  entry point into Africa, this agreement provides preferential access for Indian businesses to  both Mauritius and the broader African market. Equipped with a well-regulated financial  ecosystem, Mauritius has the expertise to structure investments into Africa. In this regard,  the Mauritian International Financial Centre (MIFC) plays a central role, providing a platform for the establishment of global business companies, Funds, VCCs and other investment  vehicles Moreover, Mauritius’ role as a hub for trade finance and structured investment solutions offers Indian investors a unique advantage. Indian businesses can leverage  Mauritius’ expertise in managing cross-border investments, ensuring compliance with both  Mauritian and African regulations. This is particularly crucial in sectors such as  infrastructure, renewable energy, and technology, where long-term capital deployment and complex regulatory frameworks require a high degree of local knowledge and regional  insight. 

Additionally, the recent Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Reserve Bank  of India (RBI) and the Bank of Mauritius (BoM) enhances the bilateral trade framework. This MoU promotes the use of Indian Rupees (INR) and Mauritian Rupees (MUR) for  transactions between the two countries, allowing businesses to invoice and settle payments  in their respective domestic currencies. By reducing transaction costs and settlement times,  this move strengthens Mauritius’ position as a cost-effective and efficient hub for cross border trade. Our regional expertise, backed by the Group’s strong presence in 18 African  markets and an extensive network of correspondent banks, allows us to facilitate  transactions and navigate complex regulatory landscapes across Africa. With a focus on  facilitating cross-border transactions, we are committed to supporting global business  operators in expanding their reach and structuring investments effectively in Africa and  beyond. 

WT: What are some of the challenges that foreign investors face when entering African  markets, and how does BCP Bank assist in overcoming them? 

SR: Africa offers immense potential, but entering the market also comes with a degree of  complexity in the form of currency risks or regulatory hurdles since we are dealing with  numerous countries. Having the right banking partner is critical to understanding the local  dynamics. At BCP Bank (Mauritius), supported by our group, we can provide local market  insights in presence countries, along with risk mitigation strategies, and financing solutions  that are key to navigating these markets. Whether it is structuring transactions in a risk optimized way, offering treasury management services or ensuring compliance with local  regulations, we provide support through tailored solutions and help businesses enter new  markets with confidence and efficiency. 

WT: The Morocco-Mauritius partnership is gaining traction. Could you share some insights  into how BCP Group is strengthening this relationship and what benefits it brings to both  economies? 

SR: Morocco and Mauritius share a common vision – both are strategic financial hubs with  ambitions to drive investment across Africa. With Casablanca Finance City and MIFC working  together and complementing each other, this collaboration is set to gain new momentum to strengthen financial ties and unlock new opportunities across the continent, following a  MoU signed by African members of the World Alliance of IFCs in March 2024. BCP Group, with its strong presence in both markets, plays a vital role in strengthening this relationship.  We believe that, together with the efforts of key stakeholders in both countries, we can  shape a vibrant, mutually beneficial partnership to promote trade and investment flows,  ease cross-border transactions, and assist strategic alliances and joint ventures. 

WT: You have built a successful career in banking. What motivated you to enter the financial  sector, and what has your journey been like? 

SR: I have always had a keen interest in international finance and global business. I started my  career at a pivotal time – when Global Business was first launched in Mauritius and when  the IFC was established. This early exposure inspired me to pursue a path that would allow  me to be part of an exciting transformation. Over the years, my journey has been marked by  continuous learning and evolution – adapting to industry shifts, embracing technological  innovations and navigating new trends like Fintech & sustainability. Along the way, I was fortunate to benefit from guidance and mentorship. In turn, I have had the privilege of  guiding teams through transformational changes, which further reinforced my passion for  driving change. Throughout my career, with all the highs and lows, my motivation has  remained unchanged: to create value, build meaningful relationships with my teams, my  clients and stakeholders, and contribute to financial solutions that empower businesses and  individuals. 

WT: The financial industry is known for its fast pace. How do you personally manage work life balance while leading in such a demanding field? 

SR: It is important to set clear priorities. Banking is demanding, but it is also deeply rewarding  when you are passionate about what you do. I believe in maintaining a balance by being  present in whatever I do, whether it is work, family, or personal time. Having strong and  performing teams is also essential. Delegation, trust, and a culture of accountability allow  leaders to focus on strategic priorities while ensuring the business runs smoothly. And of  course, making time for moments that recharge you – whether through family, travel, or  just a quiet moment – is key to staying energized. 

WT: What has been the most rewarding moment of your career so far? 

SR: It is hard to single out just one, but I find the most rewarding moments come when I see my teams performing, and when I witness the impact of our collective efforts on our clients – whether it is helping a business expand locally or internationally, or launching an initiative  that transforms the way we serve our clients. The satisfaction lies in knowing that we are  helping an individual or a business thrive in the broader economy, in line with our tagline “Build Create Prosper, Together”. 

I have always been passionate about sharing my experience and bringing my contribution to industry forums such as the Mauritius Bankers Association or Mauritius Finance – the leading voice of our IFC. On a personal note, being appointed CEO of BCP Bank (Mauritius) in  January was a significant milestone in my career. It also made me the first Mauritian woman  to lead an international bank in the country. While it is a professional recognition, I am  grateful for and proud of, what makes it truly meaningful is that it represents years of hard  work, and it gives me the chance to inspire and encourage others, especially women, to  pursue leadership roles in finance. 

WT:. If you could give one piece of advice to young professionals aspiring to grow in the  banking industry, what would it be? 

SR: Stay curious, be agile and remember you are the one defining your future, so raise your  hands when needed! The banking industry is one that evolves rapidly, with technology,  regulation, and client needs shifting constantly. The professionals who are ready to embrace  change, develop new skills and even push their limits are those who thrive. 

In parallel, in the banking industry, we must never underestimate the power of trust.  Banking is ultimately about building strong and lasting connections and maintaining the  trust of clients, colleagues and the stakeholders. 

Mrs. Sangeetha Ramkelawon’s inspiring leadership at BCP Bank (Mauritius) exemplifies the  powerful impact of vision, resilience, and inclusivity in today’s banking industry. Her journey  underscores the importance of breaking barriers and championing diversity, paving the way  for future generations of women leaders.