Africell, Sierra Leone’s premier mobile network provider, unveiled its advanced 5G network on Thursday, October 26, 2023. The event, which attracted high-ranking government representatives, industry leaders, and media personnel, was held at the Sea View Lounge, New City Hall, Freetown.

Prominent figures present included Chief Minister, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, Ministers Chernor Bah and Hon. Salima Bah, Ambassador Joe Blell, Chairman of the NatCa Board, and Mr. Amara Brewah, Director-General of the National Telecommunications Authority (NaTCA).

Shadi Gerjawi, Africell’s CEO, shared the company’s transformative journey from its 2G roots through its 4G era, and now to the groundbreaking 5G technology. He emphasized that 5G, being 100 times faster than 4G, plays a pivotal role in closing the digital gap, thereby enhancing lives.

As part of the event, Africell also showcased a new multi-functional mobile application, accessible via a QR code. The app provides various services, ranging from bill payments for utilities and services like EDSA, WAEC, DSTV, and Mercury, to facilitating financial transactions and complimentary SMS services for users.

Reiterating Africell’s broader vision, Gerjawi said, “Africell’s mission goes beyond being a telecommunications provider; it demonstrates our commitment to being a responsible corporate citizen.” He lauded Africell’s ongoing efforts in sectors like education, health, and youth empowerment.

He also extended heartfelt gratitude to the Sierra Leonean government, especially to Minister Salima Bah, Ambassador Joe Blell, and Director-General Amara Brewah for their unwavering faith in Africell’s mission.

In his remarks, NaTCA’s Director-General, Mr. Brewah, celebrated the arrival of 5G in the nation as a monumental step towards embracing a digitized future. He stressed the invaluable partnership between telecommunications giants and NaTCA, highlighting the anticipated advancements in internet quality, economic growth, education, healthcare, and governance.

Mr. Brewah also addressed the impending tariff hikes, reassuring that the enhanced quality of internet service would provide value proportionate to the costs.

Africell’s 5G network signifies Sierra Leone’s steadfast march towards a technologically advanced and interconnected tomorrow.