Parliament Reviews Telecoms in the province
The Parliamentary Oversight Committee on Communication Technology and Innovation, chaired by Hon. Boston Munda, recently concluded a comprehensive three-day oversight visit ending on June 29, 2024. Their primary focus was to assess broadband internet connectivity and mobile network accessibility across Port Loko, Bo, Kenema, and Moyamba Districts in Sierra Leone. During their visits, the Committee scrutinized the infrastructure and operations of NaTCA, UADF, and SALPOST, crucial entities in the telecommunications sector.
Hon. Munda commended the support from Parliament and the Government, underscoring their constitutional duty to oversee these institutions. He emphasized the significance of firsthand insights into their operations to tackle existing challenges effectively.
In Port Loko, the Committee intervened in a dispute over land between SALPOST and local landowners, following a visit to the burnt SALPOST office. In Bo, they inspected the Postal Service operations, where Mr. Willey Davies, Acting Post Master, detailed logistical challenges. They also scrutinized NaTCA’s activities, with Acting Manager Engineer Mohamed Kembeh highlighting issues related to cybercrime investigations and regulatory compliance.
Their visit to Kenema revealed concerning conditions at the local Post Office, managed by two retired staff members, and criticized NaTCA for management deficiencies and equipment shortages. Significant quantities of unregistered SIM cards were identified, with Qcell being noted for its adherence to registration protocols.
In Moyamba’s Yoyema community, the Committee participated in the launch of a rural telephone project led by UADF and the Ministry of Technology and Innovation. Hon. Munda praised the initiative and encouraged community members to safeguard the infrastructure, advocating for increased support to UADF to extend similar projects to marginalized areas.
Hon. Munda underscored the pivotal roles of MPs in legislating, representing constituents, and overseeing operations, highlighting Parliament’s role in securing benefits for Sierra Leoneans through progressive legislation. He reiterated the need for sustained backing for UADF to expand projects aimed at uplifting underserved communities nationwide.
