Post a comment 
The National Communications Authority (NatCA) has marked its 20th anniversary, celebrating two decades of growth in Sierra Leone’s telecommunications sector while calling for stronger collaboration to advance the country’s digital transformation agenda.
Speaking at the anniversary celebration, Minister of Communication, Technology and Innovation, Madam Salima Bah, said NatCA’s achievements over the years were driven not only by infrastructure development but also by the dedication of its workforce, shared vision, and commitment to national progress.
“Institutions are not formed by just a building. Institutions are made by their people,” Madam Bah stated, as she paid tribute to individuals who have contributed to the growth of the Authority since its establishment.
She recognised the role of Dr. Prince Harding, who served as part of the leadership that established NatCA, as well as former ministers, board chairpersons, board members, Director Generals, staff, and industry stakeholders who supported the Authority’s development.
Over the past two decades, Sierra Leone’s telecommunications sector has recorded major milestones, including mobile network coverage reaching over 90 percent of the population, expansion of the national fibre backbone to 14 of the country’s 16 districts, the entry of satellite operators, and the emergence of Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) aimed at promoting innovation and competition.
Madam Bah attributed these gains to deliberate government policies, effective regulation, and continued cooperation between the government, NatCA, telecommunications operators, development partners, and other stakeholders.
She noted that the role of a regulator goes beyond monitoring the sector, stressing that it also involves creating an environment that attracts investment, supports fair competition, encourages innovation, and ensures that citizens benefit from technological advancement.
However, the Minister warned that despite progress in expanding digital infrastructure, internet adoption remains a challenge. She said addressing this gap would require affordable digital services, improved quality of service, stronger digital literacy, and meaningful connectivity that positively impacts the lives of Sierra Leoneans.
“Twenty years ago, the focus was on building the infrastructure for a connected nation. The next twenty years must focus on ensuring every Sierra Leonean can fully participate in the opportunities that connectivity creates,” Madam Bah said.
