Kenema, 25th May 2026 -Sierra Leone’s telecommunications sector has seen a dramatic transformation, with over $400 million invested in the past five years, according to Minister of Communications, Technology and Innovation, Salima M. Bah.
Speaking as keynote at the 7th Consumer Parliament in Kenema, Minister Bah highlighted gains in infrastructure, coverage, and service quality, achievements she described as “massive investments that are changing how Sierra Leoneans connect.”
The numbers behind the progress include: $400 million invested since 2021, drawn from government, development partners, and private sector contributions. 14 out of 16 districts now connected to the national fibre backbone. 90% increase in network coverage nationwide. 88% improvement in service quality delivered by mobile network operators (MNOs) and the introduction of 5G technology, expanding digital access and speed.
“For the past five years, over four hundred million dollars have been invested in the sector. These are monies from the government, development partners, and private sector,” Bah told the packed Kenema City Council Hall.
While celebrating progress, the Minister acknowledged persistent obstacles in coverage and service standards. She assured the audience that sector players are working to guarantee sustainable and reliable network services.
The event brought together Members of Parliament, lecturers and students from the Eastern Technical University, officials from the National Telecommunications Authority, civil society representatives, traders, and mobile network providers, all converging to debate consumer rights and industry accountability.
Minister Bah praised MNOs for their resilience, noting that despite global economic pressures, they have remained steadfast in ensuring Sierra Leoneans “communicate at ease.”
