By: Precious Miracle Kargbo Snr
To transform Sierra Leone’s former national telecommunications backbone, His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio has unveiled Sierratel-Africell partnership on Tuesday 5th May 2026 following the launch of a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO).
The partnership marks a significant step toward restoring Sierratel’s role in the country’s telecommunications sector. Speaking at the launch, President Bio reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to revitalizing the state-owned company, describing it as a strategic national asset essential to Sierra Leone’s development.
Under the agreement, Sierratel will operate as a Mobile Virtual Network Operator, leveraging Africell’s existing infrastructure to provide voice and data services while gradually rebuilding its own network capacity.
Officials described the arrangement as a practical and cost-effective way for Sierratel to re-enter the market without the immediate financial burden of constructing a full telecommunications network.
The partnership is expected to improve access to reliable communication services across the country, particularly in underserved areas. By increasing competition in the telecom sector, the initiative aims to enhance service quality and affordability for consumers.
President Bio expressed appreciation to Africell for its collaboration, noting that strong partnerships are key to advancing Sierra Leone’s digital infrastructure and economic growth.
Once the dominant voice provider in Sierra Leone, Sierratel has faced years of underinvestment and infrastructure challenges. The MVNO model offers a pathway for recovery, enabling the company to quickly reconnect with customers while rebuilding its operational strength.
The government views the initiative as part of a broader strategy to restore confidence in public enterprises and expand digital access nationwide.
The Sierratel-Africell partnership aligns with national priorities to boost connectivity, support digital services, and stimulate economic development. By combining Sierratel’s legacy presence with Africell’s established network, authorities aim to accelerate progress in the telecommunications sector.
“Together, let us reconnect Sierra Leone and usher in a new era of progress,” President Bio stated at the launch.
The agreement is widely seen as a turnaround strategy for Sierratel, positioning it to compete once again in a market it previously led, while reinforcing the government’s commitment to strengthening critical infrastructure across the country.