By Sandy Bakarr
President Julius Maada Bio on Friday commissioned the new headquarters of the National Telecommunications Authority (NatCA) in Freetown, reaffirming his government’s commitment to expanding digital infrastructure, improving data governance and strengthening public service delivery.
The facility, located at Southridge in the IMATT area of the capital, also houses the Ministry of Communication, Technology and Innovation (MoCTI), as well as the National Data Centre and regulatory operations units.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Bio said the project reflected a broader national effort to invest in young people and position Sierra Leone for a technology-driven future.
“This is not just about commissioning a building; it is about fulfilling a promise to the young people of this country,” he said.
He said the project, which was initiated under a previous administration, was completed by his government despite global economic constraints, adding that national interest guided the decision.
Bio also stressed the importance of digital sovereignty, noting that the new data centre would help safeguard government information and improve national data management systems.
Communications and Technology Minister Salima Bah said the telecommunications sector remained central to economic growth and development, adding that fibre optic connectivity had expanded to 14 of the country’s 16 districts.
She said co-locating NatCA and the ministry within the same facility would improve coordination and regulatory efficiency.
NatCA Director General Amara Brewah said construction of the 10-storey complex began in 2015, describing the project as a symbol of institutional continuity across successive governments.
The building includes office space, a 200-seat auditorium and supporting infrastructure designed to enhance regulatory operations in the telecommunications sector.
Sierra Leone has been pushing to expand digital access and improve connectivity, particularly between urban and rural areas, as part of broader efforts to modernise public administration and support economic development.
