During the 21st Annual General Meeting of the West Africa Telecommunications Regulators Assembly (WATRA), Chief Minister Dr Moinina David Sengeh challenged regulators to prioritize connectivity to integrate the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). At the meeting in Freetown, Dr Sengeh emphasized the importance of regulatory collaboration and coordination in ensuring a strong connectivity system that promotes subregional development.
Dr. Sengeh emphasized the importance of technology, specifically Artificial Intelligence (AI), in improving learning outcomes and citizens’ lives in Sierra Leone. He discussed President Bio’s “BIG FIVE GAME CHANGERS” initiative, which aims to improve citizens’ lives through a variety of programs including Feed Salone, Human Capital Development, Youth Employment Scheme, Revamping Public Service Architecture, and Technology & Infrastructure. Dr Sengeh advised foreign visitors to familiarize themselves with these priorities before leaving the country.
The Chief Minister emphasized the importance of technology and information in driving national development, as well as the need for improved connectivity and infrastructure in the subregion. He called on regulators to explore ways to enhance connectivity to bridge the digital divide and promote economic growth in ECOWAS member states.
WATRA, an organization that encourages collaboration among West African telecommunications regulators, is critical to improving regional access to information and communication technology (ICT) services. Sierra Leone, a member of WATRA, hosted the 21st AGM by a resolution passed at the previous year’s meeting in Bamako, Mali.
The AGM’s theme, “Enhancing Connectivity for ECOWAS Integration,” emphasizes the importance of utilizing technology to promote regional integration and development. Regulators from across the subregion convened to discuss ways to improve connectivity, address regulatory challenges, and strengthen collaboration among member countries.
In his closing remarks, Dr. Sengeh thanked NatCA and WATRA for hosting the AGM in Sierra Leone, highlighting the country’s commitment to technological advancement and innovation. He urged regulators to continue working together to create a more connected and prosperous ECOWAS.
The WATRA’s 21st Annual General Meeting provided a forum for regulators to exchange ideas, share best practices, and strengthen partnerships to improve connectivity and regional integration. As the subregion continues to embrace digital transformation, regulators must lead the way in fostering a more connected and inclusive ECOWAS.
