By Emmanuel Mbowa
Freetown, 4th August 2026 — Sierra Leone’s Minister of Communications, Technology and Innovation, Salima Bah, has called for urgent collective action to close the country’s digital usage gap, as the National Telecommunications Authority (NatCA) marked its 20th anniversary under the theme “Twenty Years of Consumer-Focused Connectivity.”
Speaking at the celebration held at NatCA’s headquarters in Imatt, South Ridge, Minister Bah revealed that while network coverage now reaches 90 percent of the population, only 42 percent are actively using the internet. She stressed that the next phase of NatCA’s journey must focus on affordability, quality of service, and expanding actual usage.
“I believe the next phase of these twenty years should be about how we bridge the usage gap, how we address affordability, and how we ensure citizens get better quality of service,” she said. The Minister emphasized that bridging the gap requires collaboration across government, regulators, Parliament, and the private sector.
Highlighting the importance of infrastructure, she noted: “You cannot talk about usage and price if the infrastructure doesn’t exist. Over these last 20 years, investment has gone into building that foundation, but more must be done.”
NatCA’s Director General, Amara Brewah, expressed gratitude to Sierra Leoneans for their support, stating: “Every milestone we celebrate today bears the imprint of your dedication and service. On behalf of the Board and Management, I thank you for your loyalty and contributions.” He added that NatCA is working closely with government and investors to improve connectivity, warning that adherence to international standards is crucial to retaining investor confidence.
Representatives from Mobile Network Operators and Internet Service Providers joined the celebration, pledging to comply with regulations, boost connectivity nationwide, and help address the usage gap identified by Minister Bah.
As NatCA enters its next decade, the focus is clear: ensuring that expanded coverage translates into meaningful internet access for all Sierra Leoneans.
