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Minister of Communication, Technology, and Innovation, Salima Monorma Bah, has announced the successful launch of West Africa’s first open-access 5G network during the 2025 Sierra Leone Innovate Digital Government Summit held at the Bintumani Conference Center.
This groundbreaking initiative, which span across West African countries, aims to foster connectivity and technological growth across the region.
Minister Bah emphasized that the newly established 5G network will be accessible to all mobile operators in Sierra Leone, marking a pivotal step toward enhancing digital infrastructure and promoting competition in the telecommunications sector.
In addition to the 5G network, Minister Bah introduced the EduCube, a 20-foot solar-powered digital container. This mobile learning unit is equipped with computers, internet access, air conditioning, and printers, designed specifically to promote digital inclusion in remote communities.
During the summit, Minister Bah also announced the Big 5 Innovation Investment Challenge, which is linked to the 2025 President Bio Innovation Award.
The initiative reportedly offers up to NLe 1.8 million in seed funding for innovative local solutions. The winner of this year’s challenge, Mohamed Samu, was recognized for his development of an insect-based organic fertilizer that converts waste into high-protein animal feed. He received a grand prize of $30,000 for his innovative contribution to sustainable agriculture.
Minister Bah concluded her address by reaffirming the government’s dedication to fostering innovation and technology in Sierra Leone.
