Excellency Julius Maada Bio has officially commissioned the new headquarters of the National Telecommunications Authority (NatCA), reaffirming his government’s commitment to safeguarding national data, strengthening digital infrastructure, and enhancing service delivery across Sierra Leone on Friday, 17 April 2026 in Freetown.
The modern facility, located at Southridge in Freetown, now houses both NatCA and its supervising body, the Ministry of Communication, Technology and Innovation (MoCTI). It also accommodates critical national assets, including the National Data Centre and the Network Operations and Regulatory Authority.
Describing the occasion as a significant milestone, President Bio emphasized that the project reflects his administration’s dedication to empowering young people and advancing national development through technology. “Today is not just about commissioning a building; it is about fulfilling a promise to the young people of this country and investing in their future,” he stated.
The President noted that although the project was initiated by a previous administration, his government made a deliberate decision to complete it despite global economic challenges and supply chain disruptions. “Good decisions for Sierra Leone do not belong to individuals – they belong to the people. We chose to complete this project because it serves the national interest,” he affirmed.
Highlighting the importance of digital sovereignty, President Bio stressed that the new data centre will play a vital role in protecting government information and preserving national dignity. He also acknowledged existing challenges, including the digital divide between rural and urban communities and the high cost of data, assuring citizens that the government remains engaged with service providers to address these issues.
The President further linked digital transformation to broader national priorities, referencing ongoing agricultural initiatives under the Feed Salone programme. He cited his recent visits to onion farms and his personal involvement in fish farming as examples of leadership by action.
Minister of Communication, Technology and Innovation, Salima Bah, described the commissioning as a landmark achievement in Sierra Leone’s digital journey. She noted that the telecommunications sector remains a key driver of economic growth and national development.
“With 14 out of 16 districts now connected by fiber, this facility strengthens our capacity to regulate effectively, promote fair competition, and improve service delivery,” she said.
She added that co-locating NatCA and MoCTI will enhance coordination, while the National Data Centre will ensure the secure storage and management of government information.
Director General of NatCA, Amara Brewah, disclosed that construction of the facility began in 2015, at a time when demand for telecommunications services was rapidly expanding. “This building is a testament to institutional continuity and national commitment. It belongs to every leadership that contributed to its completion,” he noted.
Mr. Brewah further highlighted that the 10-storey structure includes office spaces for both institutions, a 200-seat auditorium, and essential support infrastructure, positioning NatCA to effectively regulate and support the evolving telecommunications landscape.
The commissioning of the NatCA headquarters marks a major step forward in Sierra Leone’s drive toward digital resilience, improved governance, and inclusive national development.