Sierra Leone Links Digital Expansion to Energy and Investment at New York Roundtable

Sierra Leone has brought together public officials, telecommunications operators and technology companies in New York to examine investment opportunities linked to energy, digital infrastructure, 5G connectivity and regional trade.

The roundtable, held on the sidelines of the 2026 United Nations General Assembly, was led by Salima Monorma Bah, Minister of Communications, Technology and Innovation. It included representatives from Government ministries, the private sector and other industry stakeholders.

Energy and digital infrastructure

Discussions focused on the relationship between dependable electricity and the growth of telecommunications networks, data centres and other technology-intensive infrastructure. Participants identified reliable power, stronger connectivity and sustained investment from domestic and international partners as important to Sierra Leone’s digital expansion.

The meeting also examined opportunities to expand data infrastructure and deploy 5G technology. The International Data Center Authority shared perspectives on developing facilities that meet recognized international standards, while Africa Climate and Energy Nexus, Aton Path and AEB addressed the energy requirements associated with large-scale digital infrastructure.

Bell Canada contributed technical perspectives on 5G deployment. Africell Sierra Leone provided views on telecommunications development, network expansion and potential future investment.

Minister of Energy Cyril Grant attended the discussions in person, while Minister of Trade and Industry Ibrahim Alpha Sesay participated virtually.

Sierratel relaunch discussed

Participants also considered a recently approved partnership intended to relaunch Sierratel through a Mobile Virtual Network Operator model. Sierratel and Africell Sierra Leone provided insights into telecommunications operations, future investment opportunities and possible service expansion.

The supplied information does not detail the partners, terms or implementation schedule for the Sierratel arrangement.

Trade and regional integration

Beyond network and energy issues, the roundtable examined how improved digital infrastructure could support commerce and innovation and help Sierra Leone connect more closely with regional and international markets.

The engagement complemented President Julius Maada Bio’s United Nations General Assembly activities concerning African participation in the ownership, development and governance of digital infrastructure. It also took place ahead of the inaugural West Africa Integration and Investment Summit scheduled for November.

The discussions reflect Sierra Leone’s effort to attract investment across telecommunications, data infrastructure and supporting energy systems while deepening cooperation with private-sector and international partners.