Africell Sierra Leone has reaffirmed its pivotal role in the nation’s digital transformation by actively participating in the 2025 Sierra Leone Innovates Digital Government Summit, which took place in Freetown. Organized by the Ministry of Communication, Technology, and Innovation (MoCTI), this prestigious event gathered government officials, private sector representatives, youth innovators, and international partners to discuss strategies for fostering a smarter and more inclusive digital landscape in Sierra Leone.
As one of the primary sponsors of the summit, Africell went beyond merely providing financial backing; the company took an active role in shaping the event’s vision and overall success. Malek El Koussa, Africell’s Chief Operating Officer, commended the organization of the summit and the government’s unwavering commitment to advancing the digital agenda in Sierra Leone.
“This year’s summit has truly raised the bar,” El Koussa remarked. “We are proud to be part of this moment where the President’s directives have clearly outlined the digital vision for Sierra Leone. It is now our collective responsibility—both public institutions and private enterprises—to align with that vision and deliver innovations that have a tangible impact on people’s lives.”
Africell showcased its commitment to bridging the digital divide at its vibrant exhibition booth, where attendees could explore a range of advanced technologies aimed at enhancing digital inclusion across Sierra Leone. A standout feature was the introduction of AI-EVA, a voice-powered artificial intelligence service designed to respond to verbal queries in local languages. This innovative tool is particularly beneficial for users who lack smartphones or internet access, making it ideal for farmers, traders, students, and underserved populations in rural areas. AI-EVA represents a significant step toward promoting digital inclusion in communities with low literacy rates.
In addition to AI-EVA, Africell presented AfroGPT, a localized adaptation of the popular ChatGPT model. This version has been optimized to function offline and on basic devices, democratizing access to knowledge and educational resources through artificial intelligence.
“We believe that the future belongs to the youth and to the dreamers,” El Koussa continued. “Platforms like this summit provide them with the opportunity to witness firsthand how technology can genuinely shape their destinies.”
Beyond its focus on artificial intelligence, Africell also highlighted its robust technological infrastructure, which includes cutting-edge 5G routers, Samsung smart devices, and the increasingly popular Star Fiber home internet bundles. As the authorized distributor for Samsung in Sierra Leone, Africell is committed to making high-quality devices more accessible to the local population.
In the financial sector, Africell showcased the capabilities of its Afrimoney platform, which now offers seamless international remittance services. As digital finance becomes increasingly integral to daily life, Africell is expanding its services to reach remote and unbanked communities, further solidifying its status as a leader in financial technology.
El Koussa delivered a powerful message to Sierra Leone’s youth and the general public, emphasizing the necessity of adapting to technological advancements. “Change is inevitable. We have transitioned from analog phones to smartphones, and now we are moving from manual to digital systems,” he explained. “If you resist technology, it will leave you behind. If you embrace it, it will uplift you.”
The summit underscored the critical role that private sector companies like Africell play in helping the government achieve its national digital transformation objectives. With President Julius Maada Bio’s administration advocating for innovation-driven governance, Africell’s contributions reaffirm its position as more than just a telecommunications provider; it stands as a genuine partner in the ongoing journey toward progress.
Through initiatives like the 2025 Sierra Leone Innovates Digital Government Summit, Africell is not only driving technological advancements but also fostering a culture of innovation that empowers individuals and communities across the nation. As Sierra Leone continues to embrace the digital age, Africell remains committed to ensuring that no one is left behind.
