Tuesday, 26 May 2026: Sierra Leone has launched work on a national artificial intelligence strategy as the government accelerates its broader digital transformation agenda. The initiative, developed in partnership with the World Bank Group, comes as authorities seek to expand digital access and modernize public services across the country.
The Ministry of Communication, Technology and Innovation disclosed the project last week during a three-day consultation that brought together media organizations, civil society groups, public institutions, and private-sector stakeholders. According to the ministry, the goal is to ensure the future AI strategy reflects “the realities, priorities, and voices of the Sierra Leonean people, including local languages and cultures.”
Before drafting the strategy itself, authorities said they first needed to assess Sierra Leone’s level of preparedness for artificial intelligence. That process evaluates the country’s ability to adopt AI in a responsible and inclusive way while ensuring the technology benefits the broader population. The assessment also aims to identify the investments, policies, infrastructure, skills, and safeguards needed to position AI as a driver of national development.
Digital Transformation Gains Momentum
The initiative comes as Sierra Leone’s government pushes to expand nationwide digital connectivity. Authorities say they want to rely on innovative technologies to deliver public services that are more transparent, affordable, and centered on citizens’ needs at both national and local levels. Within that strategy, the government has also shown growing interest in blockchain technology, which officials believe can strengthen transparency, trust, and innovation in public service delivery.
Blockchain has already been used in Sierra Leone’s national digital identity system launched in August 2019, and authorities also tested the technology during presidential elections.
At the end of 2025, the government launched the “Big 5 AI & Blockchain Hackathon,” an initiative designed to train and mentor participants developing solutions based on artificial intelligence and blockchain technologies. Officials described both technologies as among “the most transformative of our time.”
Sierra Leone has also secured substantial international support for its digital ambitions. In January 2023, the country received a $50 million World Bank grant for its national digital transformation project. Alongside that funding, the government says it has invested more than $400 million in the telecommunications sector to support digital infrastructure upgrades while also strengthening cybersecurity efforts.
AI Brings Both Opportunities and Risks
Sierra Leone’s approach to AI aligns with broader international discussions led by the United Nations.
In its E-Government Survey 2024, the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UNDESA) said artificial intelligence could significantly improve public-sector operations. According to the report, AI can automate administrative tasks, improve efficiency, reduce delays, limit duplication, detect anomalies, classify data, and support decision-making.
At the same time, the UN agency warned about several risks tied to AI adoption. One of the main concerns involves data bias, which can lead to the exclusion or misrepresentation of certain groups. The report also highlighted ethical, security, and social concerns linked to the deployment of AI systems. Another major challenge remains the digital divide, especially in low-income and developing countries.
UNDESA warned that limited access to digital infrastructure, technical skills, and online services could restrict the ability of large segments of the population to fully benefit from AI technologies. In Sierra Leone, official figures suggest that around 60% of the population still does not use telecommunications services.
Isaac K. Kassouwi
Source: Sierra Leone Advances National AI Strategy to Support Digital Expansion – Ecofin Agency