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The Ministers of Telecommunications, Information and Communication Technologies (ICT), and Digitalisation from across the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) met in Freetown for their 20th Ministerial session.
The meeting brought together participants both physically in Freetown and virtually, and focused on advancing the region’s digital transformation and deepening regional integration.
Opening the session, the Minister of Planning and Economic Development of Sierra Leone, Kenyeh Barlay, highlighted the broader development impact of digital transformation, mentioning that investments in digital infrastructure and services are essential to unlocking productivity, improving public service delivery, and creating opportunities for citizens across the region. 
“This meeting is particularly significant in that our President H.E Rtd. Brigadier Dr Julius Maada Bio holds the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government And Digital Transformation is central to one of HE Four Priority Areas of focus-Unlocking Economic Integration-Bearing in mind our vision of an “ECOWAS of People”. A harmonized digital market allows our youth, our entrepreneurs, and our SMEs to trade across borders as easily as they do within their own communities.” she Explained.
Making her statement, Salima Monorma Bah, Minister of Communication, Technology and Innovation says West Africa’s digital future depends on our ability to move beyond isolated platforms toward a truly seamless regional ecosystem.
“While we have built innovative systems in Sierra Leone, the real challenge lies in integration, ensuring our digital payments and services speak the same language across borders. By aligning our policies on data protection and cybersecurity, and collectively tackling the growing threat of disinformation, we are not just connecting technologies; we are securing a resilient and inclusive digital economy for every citizen in the ECOWAS region.” she stated.
During the enagement, the ministers focused on practical steps to expand broadband access, build capacity, strengthen regulatory frameworks, and foster innovation ecosystems that can support long-term growth.
Finally, at the session concludsion the West Africa’s digital transformation is accelerating. Through this strengthened cooperation, the region is now better positioned to fully capture the opportunities of the digital age.
