Sierra Leone and Guinea Strengthen Ties in Digital Economy
On November 22, 2024, Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Communication, Technology, and Innovation and Guinea’s Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications, and Digital Economy signed a framework agreement to enhance cooperation in telecommunications and the digital economy. The ceremony, held at Atlantic Hotel, Freetown, marked a significant step in fostering cross-border connectivity and economic growth through digital innovation.
Building on prior engagements, including an August 2024 meeting in Conakry, the partnership focuses on key areas such as combating cybercrime, infrastructure sharing, and a free-roaming initiative. The agreement aims to interconnect the fiber networks of both nations, ensuring secure communication channels, affordable services, and improved internet reliability.
Sierra Leone’s Minister of Communications, Salima Monorma Bah, highlighted the agreement’s alignment with regional goals like ECOWAS integration and Africa’s vision for a unified digital market. She emphasized the benefits of connecting both nations through fiber optics at Balamuya, promoting socio-economic transformation while reducing internet outages. Guinea’s Minister of Posts, Rose Pola Pricemou, echoed these sentiments, celebrating the historic bonds between the two countries and the shared commitment to advancing technology and economic collaboration.
Key stakeholders, including Chief Minister Dr. David Moinina Sengeh and Orange SL CEO Sekou Amadou Bah, praised the agreement as a catalyst for innovation, private-sector growth, and enhanced connectivity. To ensure its success, a joint commission will oversee the implementation and monitoring of the framework, which also supports e-commerce, digital education, and ICT startups.
The partnership underscores the importance of regional collaboration in building a secure, inclusive, and competitive digital economy, setting a precedent for sustainable development across West Africa.
