The government of Sierra Leone has made a groundbreaking $132 million investment in the digital sector as part of its commitment to leveraging technology for sustainable development.

Central to this investment are key frameworks, including the National Innovation and Digital Strategy, National Digital Development Policy, National Broadband Strategy, and Government Enterprise Architecture.

Minister of Communication, Technology, and Innovation, Salima Bah, speaking in Freetown unveiled this ambitious effort while outlining a series of transformative initiatives designed to digitize governance and enhance connectivity nationwide. “These initiatives aim at streamlining governance processes, improve service delivery, and foster a more digitally inclusive society”. The establishment of key institutions such as the Directorate of Science, Technology, and Innovation (DSTI), the National Cyber Security Center, and the Universal Access Development Fund, she explained underscores the government’s focus on creating a robust foundation for digital transformation. Meanwhile, the government has entered into a digital partnership with Guinea to establish alternative fiber routes. This collaboration highlights the strategic importance of regional cooperation in driving digital development and would improve regional connectivity.

Minister Bah emphasized that these investments and initiatives are not only about building infrastructure but also about empowering citizens, fostering innovation, and enabling economic growth. “Digital transformation is a catalyst for sustainable development,” she stated, reaffirming the government’s commitment to making technology a cornerstone of national progress.

This $132 million investment is set to reshape the digital landscape, paving the way for a more connected, innovative, and resilient future.