By: James Kamara-Manneh
In a significant event held at the Former Natcom office in Freetown, now the National Telecommunication Authorities (NatCA), a new identity for the country’s telecommunication landscape was proudly revealed. The ceremony, attended by key industry figures, marked a crucial milestone in the evolution of the nation’s communication infrastructure.
Madam Sewa Koroma, the Deputy Director General, in her opening remarks, emphasized NatCA’s commitment to ensuring an effective, efficient, and predictable electronic communications sector. She highlighted their goal to protect consumer interests and government concerns, emphasizing the regulation of the sector in the public interest. Madam Koroma stressed the importance of state-of-the-art equipment for service providers to avoid redundancy and improve service quality.
The focal point of the unveiling was the introduction of a sleek and dynamic new logo, symbolizing the modernization and forward-thinking vision of the nation’s telecommunication sector. The Chairman of NatCA, Ambassador Joe Blell, explained the transformation from the Telecom Act of 2006 to the National Communication Authority Act of 2020, leading to changes in the organization’s character and culture.
Amara Brewah, the Director General, highlighted the necessity of the transformation from Natcom to NatCA in response to technological advancements. She noted that the new act granted stronger regulatory powers, enabling them to issue licenses, set technical standards, monitor compliance, and enforce regulations.
The guest of honor, Minister of Communication, Technology, and Innovation, Madam Salima Monorma, described the change of name as a positive growth direction. She urged Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) to hold the government accountable and called on private companies to do the same.
In a parallel initiative, national telecommunication officials announced a rebranding effort, introducing a new name reflecting innovation and connectivity. This transformation, they emphasized, goes beyond cosmetics, aligning with a broader strategy to adapt to the evolving needs of a digital society.
As part of the rebranding campaign, extensive community engagement initiatives were unveiled to involve the public in the telecommunication sector’s transformation and gather valuable feedback. The ceremony concluded with leaders outlining ambitious plans for the future, including advanced technologies, improved connectivity, and initiatives to bridge the digital divide.
This unveiling marks a pivotal moment for the national telecommunication sector, symbolizing not only a visual transformation but a commitment to propel the nation into a technologically advanced and interconnected era.
