Sierra Leone Achieves Record-Breaking Connectivity Expansion

Sierra Leone’s Minister of Information and Communications, Mohamed Rahman Swaray, delivered an update on President Julius Maada Bio’s 2018 manifesto promises at the Sierra Leone People’s Party’s 13th National Delegates’ Conference. The government has made strides in expanding broadband and voice connectivity, enacted the Cyber Security and Crime Act 2021 to protect citizens’ privacy, received a $50 million grant for the Digital Transformation Project, and repealed a law hindering journalism progress. The Minister emphasized that the government has been transparent in its efforts, with weekly press briefings, public engagements, and a social media platform for citizens to communicate with government officials. Sierra Leone has been ranked highly in terms of media promotion and free speech.