By: Aminata Sesay
In a determined effort to accelerate Sierra Leone’s digital transformation, the Parliamentary Committee on Communications, Technology, and Innovation, led by Chairman Hon. Boston Munda, conducted a comprehensive oversight tour on Friday, August 22, 2025. The Committee visited key technology institutions to assess progress, identify systemic challenges, and explore pathways for sustainable growth in the sector.
The oversight began at the Sierra Leone Postal Service (SALPOST), where Managing Director Brima Katta provided a candid assessment of the institution’s ongoing struggles. Despite notable progress since 2022 such as settling salary arrears and implementing wage restructuring SALPOST’s revenue has been severely impacted by external setbacks, including the 2023 exit of Air France, the 2024 loss of major bulk mail partnerships and new U.S. postal regulations, which threaten up to 70% of its business
Katta appealed for renewed government support and highlighted a recently approved stabilization package and a five-year business plan aimed at repositioning SALPOST as a key logistics player for the government.
Hon. Munda acknowledged the urgency of the situation and reaffirmed the Committee’s readiness to support institutions in need not through punishment, but through partnership. He encouraged SALPOST to update its regulatory frameworks to align with modern postal and logistics standards, to enable parliamentary approval and long-term sustainability.
At the National Cybersecurity Coordination Centre (NCCC), Cyber Risk Manager Alex Williams presented the institution’s achievements since the enactment of the Cybersecurity and Crime Act, 2021. Notable milestones include establishment of a Computer Security Incident Response Team (CSIRT), creation of a national digital forensics lab and signing of international cooperation agreements.
Despite these gains, the NCCC continues to face critical challenges inadequate funding, shortage of skilled cybersecurity personnel, lack of a Data Protection Act and low public awareness of cybersecurity threats.
Williams urged the government to prioritize funding and policy reforms to sustain momentum in safeguarding Sierra Leone’s digital infrastructure.
In response, Hon. Munda stressed the need for structured reporting and clear implementation timelines. He emphasized that the Committee expects consistent, transparent updates to ensure progress aligns with legislative intent.
At the National Communications Authority (NaTCA), the Committee was welcomed by Deputy Chairman Hon. Bash Kamara. Director General Amara Brewah spoke about the complex dynamics of regulating a fast-evolving telecommunications landscape.
Finalize a co-regulation agreement with the Bank of Sierra Leone for mobile money, address concerns around unregistered service providers
Prepare for the integration of emerging technologies like Starlink, with the goal of improving nationwide internet access
Brewah called for adaptive regulatory frameworks to balance consumer protection, investor confidence, and evolving technological realities.
The final visit was to Sierratel, where Acting Director Edward Y. Kamara revealed the dire state of the once-thriving telecommunications provider. Once diversified in services, the company now survives on limited fiber and co-location services, generating insufficient revenue to meet basic operational needs.
Key issues include unpaid salaries for several months, outstanding retirement benefits, mounting debt and outdated infrastructure.
Hon. Bash Kamara expressed grave concern, warning that without immediate intervention, Sierratel’s survival is at serious risk. Chairman Munda echoed these sentiments, blaming the collapse on past mismanagement and unauthorized leasing of assets. He announced that parliamentary summons would be issued for Sierratel’s management to provide full financial accountability, including transactions involving NaTCA and the Universal Access Development Fund (UADF).
Throughout the day, the Committee balanced rigorous scrutiny with constructive dialogue, reaffirming Parliament’s role in ensuring that digital and communications institutions remain transparent, efficient, and resilient.
“We are not here to witch-hunt,” Hon. Munda concluded. “We are here to support reform, demand accountability, and drive innovation that delivers lasting benefits for the people of Sierra Leone.”
The oversight exercise underscores the crucial role of institutional accountability in achieving Sierra Leone’s vision for a robust, inclusive, and secure digital future.