By: Aminata Sesay
The Parliamentary Oversight Committee on Communications, Technology and Innovation has raised serious concerns over the implementation of the proposed partnership between Sierratel and Africell, questioning the timing, transparency, and financial implications of the arrangement involving one of Sierra Leone’s most strategic telecommunications assets.
The Committee, chaired by Hon. Boston Munda, summoned officials from the Ministry of Communication, Technology and Innovation on 12 June 2026 to provide clarification on the status of Sierratel and the recently announced partnership agreement with Africell.
During the hearing, Members of Parliament expressed concern that key implementation activities including branding exercises, soft launches, and management appointments had already commenced before Parliament was given the opportunity to scrutinize the agreement.
Deputy Leader of Government Business I, Hon. Bashiru Silikie, reminded Ministry officials that Parliament represents the people of Sierra Leone and must be afforded the opportunity to review agreements entered on behalf of the State.
He questioned the wisdom of proceeding with implementation before parliamentary review, asking what the consequences would be if Parliament ultimately rejected the agreement after substantial actions had already been taken.
Responding to the concerns, the Minister of Communication, Technology and Innovation, Mrs. Salima Monorma Bah, explained that the partnership was designed to revive Sierratel following years of financial difficulties, declining service delivery, and operational challenges.
She informed the Committee that the Government had explored several alternatives, including previous efforts to privatize the company. However, potential investors reportedly withdrew after assessing Sierratel’s liabilities and operational constraints.
According to the Minister, the Government subsequently adopted a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) model in partnership with Africell. Under this arrangement, Sierratel would continue to operate under its own brand while utilizing Africell’s telecommunications infrastructure to provide services.
Despite the explanation, Committee Members raised concerns about specific aspects of the agreement, particularly the reported revenue-sharing formula under which the Government would receive 12 percent of generated revenue while Africell would retain 88 percent.
Several lawmakers argued that the arrangement required a more thorough examination to determine whether it adequately safeguards the interests of the State and delivers value for the people of Sierra Leone.
The Committee also sought clarification regarding the management and future status of Sierratel’s assets, including its fibre-optic infrastructure, telecommunications towers, office facilities, and other strategic resources.
Mrs. Bah informed lawmakers that a nationwide asset audit was currently underway to establish the value, condition, and status of Sierratel’s assets before any asset management agreement could be finalized.
Following extensive deliberations, the Committee resolved to suspend further substantive discussions on the partnership until all relevant documents are submitted for parliamentary review.
The requested documents include the MVNO Agreement, the proposed Asset Management Agreement, audit and verification reports on staff liabilities, asset valuation reports, and all Cabinet approvals relating to the transaction.
The Committee emphasized that Sierratel remains a strategic national asset and reiterated the importance of transparency, accountability, and the protection of public interest in any arrangement concerning the company’s future.
The hearing was subsequently adjourned pending the submission of the requested documents, after which Parliament is expected to continue its review of the proposed partnership.