AYV News, August 7, 2026
The Ministry of Communication, Technology and Innovation (MoCTI) has concluded a two-day National Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) Public-Private Sector Dialogue aimed at strengthening Sierra Leone’s digital ecosystem and advancing inclusive digital transformation.
The dialogue, held at the National Telecommunications Authority (NaTCA) Auditorium on August 5, 2026, brought together key stakeholders from government institutions, financial institutions, the private sector, academia, civil society, and development partners to discuss strategies for building a secure and sustainable digital future for the country.
Held under the theme “Building Sierra Leone’s Digital Trust and Transaction Infrastructure,” the forum focused on three critical pillars of Digital Public Infrastructure: trusted digital identity, secure digital payments, and interoperable data exchange.
Stakeholders noted that these systems are essential to improving access to public services, supporting business innovation, strengthening financial inclusion, and enhancing the efficiency of government service delivery.
Speaking at the event, Minister of Communication, Technology and Innovation, Salima Monorma Bah, emphasized the need for collective action among institutions to achieve meaningful digital transformation.
She said the development of Digital Public Infrastructure cannot be achieved by a single organization, stressing the importance of creating secure, interoperable, and sustainable systems that respond to citizens’ needs.
“Digital transformation requires strong collaboration across institutions,” the Minister noted, adding that partnerships remain critical in building systems that can improve the lives of Sierra Leoneans.
The Governor of the Bank of Sierra Leone, Dr. Ibrahim Stevens, highlighted the importance of reliable financial infrastructure, stating that investments in secure and efficient payment systems will contribute to the growth of a stronger digital economy and enable seamless transactions.
World Bank Country Manager Abdu Muwonge stressed the importance of trusted digital platforms and connected systems, noting that the success of digital transformation should be measured by how effectively it improves public services and benefits citizens.
Meanwhile, Director General of the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA), Mohamed MubashirMassaquoi, described digital identity as a foundation for digital inclusion.
He explained that secure and verifiable identity systems are critical to expanding access to essential services and creating opportunities for innovation.
Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to China, Dr. Abu BakarrKarim, also highlighted the role of international partnerships in supporting the country’s digital development agenda, describing collaboration as essential to building a resilient and innovative digital economy.
The two-day dialogue ended with stakeholders reaffirming their commitment to strengthening digital policies, governance structures, and technological systems that will support secure, inclusive, and citizen-focused digital transformation across Sierra Leone.
