"Minister Salima Bah advocates for unrestricted web access as a fundamental human entitlement, outlining Sierra Leone's tech-focused aspirations"
Sierra Leone's tech ecosystem is experiencing a rapid transformation, thanks to significant investments in infrastructure, digital services, and innovation hubs. Led by Minister Salima Bah, the government has poured over $132 million into technology and innovation since early 2024, improving internet access from 1.84 million users in 2023 to approximately 2.32 million in 2025.
One of the most significant infrastructural gains is the launch of West Africa’s first open-access 5G standalone network in June 2025. The government has also expanded fiber optic coverage to 14 out of 16 districts, increased national bandwidth capacity by 500%, and improved rural connectivity funded by the Universal Access Development Fund. These developments form a solid foundation for broader digital transformation and service delivery.
Beyond infrastructure, Sierra Leone is emphasizing building a vibrant innovation ecosystem. This includes government-backed initiatives like digital skills programs targeting youth and women, digital governance tools, and national AI preparedness activities involving international partners such as MIT. A flagship project at the center of Sierra Leone’s tech ambitions is Felei Tech City, a $150 million initiative designed to establish a regional hub for technology talent and entrepreneurship.
Felei Tech City, currently under construction, is envisioned to operate through a public-private partnership framework, with the government's role as a facilitator rather than direct operator. The government aims for Felei Tech City to foster local and regional partnerships to maximize investment and benefits for local players.
Sierra Leone is also deepening international cooperation, notably with China’s Hubei Province, to bolster digital infrastructure, innovation ecosystems, and human capacity building through academic and technical exchanges. Additional innovative programs demonstrate the ecosystem’s diversity, such as the Digital Twins Innovation Challenge led by UNDP and local partners, which engages youth in reimagining cultural heritage using advanced technologies.
The government's focus on building Sierra Leone's technical talent pipeline is evident in skills development initiatives, the growth of tech-focused tertiary institutions, and a revised curriculum that enhances the STEM program in the national curriculum. The government is also hosting a roundtable to validate the model for the Felei Tech City with local and regional partners, conducting an AI Readiness Assessment, and organizing an AI Innovation Challenge to identify AI-driven solutions in the local ecosystem.
The government's support for the tech ecosystem is driven by the belief that investing in technology and innovation is essential for national development. The government is promoting the Felei Tech City, with a Sierra Leonean startup winning the regional Startup World Cup and representing West Africa in Silicon Valley. Since 2018, there has been an over 75% increase in fibre backbone penetration and international bandwidth capacity in Sierra Leone.
In conclusion, Sierra Leone's tech ecosystem development is characterised by rapid infrastructure expansion, strategic government investments, a growing innovation culture, international partnerships, and concrete projects advancing toward Felei Tech City’s establishment as a regional technology hub. The government's efforts are aimed at creating a thriving tech ecosystem that attracts, thrives, and retains talent, ultimately driving economic growth and national development.
References: 1. [Source 1] 2. [Source 2] 3. [Source 3] 4. [Source 4] 5. [Source 5]
- The government's significant investments in infrastructure, digital services, and innovation hubs have driven Sierra Leone's tech ecosystem transformation.
- One of the standout infrastructural accomplishments is the launch of West Africa’s first open-access 5G standalone network.
- The government has facilitated the expansion of fiber optic coverage to 14 out of 16 districts and improved rural connectivity through the Universal Access Development Fund.
- Sierra Leone's tech ambitions include the establishment of a regional tech talent and entrepreneurship hub, Felei Tech City, which operates through a public-private partnership framework.
- Beyond infrastructure, the government is fostering a vibrant innovation ecosystem through initiatives like digital skills programs, digital governance tools, and national AI preparedness activities.
- The government's efforts in education and self-development are evident in skills development initiatives, the growth of tech-focused tertiary institutions, and a revised curriculum that emphasizes STEM education.
