Minister of Communication, Technology, and Innovation, Salima Bah, recently led a delegation to Nigeria in a bid to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange in the field of technology and innovation. The delegation visited various institutions to gain insight and explore potential partnerships.
Another significant meeting took place with Dr. Aristotle, the Acting Director General & Director of Strategic Planning at the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA). The discussions aimed to enhance Sierra Leone’s Standards and Compliance Unit and understand and adapt approaches for standards in emerging technologies. Collaborative efforts were explored in areas such as blockchain, Artificial Intelligence, big data, cloud computing, and the Internet of Things (IoT).
The delegation also visited the Nigerian Communications Satellite (NIGCOMSAT) and met with the Managing Director, Jane Egerton-Idehen. The purpose of this meeting was to explore potential cooperation in satellite technology to achieve faster and more reliable internet connectivity. Proposed partnerships would involve knowledge transfer and joint research, ultimately boosting economic development.
Furthermore, the delegation had a meeting with the National Coordinator, Ife Adebayo, at Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE). The purpose of this meeting was to gain insights into the $618 million tech fund for young investors launched under iDICE in Nigeria. Discussions revolved around the processes involved in managing and allocating the fund, as well as sharing ideas for fostering innovation and growth within the digital and creative sectors. The importance of knowledge transfer for the success of implementing similar programs in Sierra Leone was also emphasized.
In an interview broadcasted on Channels TV, Minister Salima Bah highlighted Sierra Leone’s technological future and expressed the collaborative spirit fostered during the delegation’s visit to Nigeria.
