Sierra Leone begins development of first National Artificial Intelligence Strategy
Date: 2026-05-20
By: Nana Appiah Acquaye
The Ministry of
Communication, Technology and Innovation in Sierra Leone, in collaboration with
the World Bank Group, has begun work on the country’s first National Artificial
Intelligence Strategy, aimed at guiding responsible and inclusive adoption of AI
technologies.
The initiative follows the
development of a Draft Sierra Leone AI Readiness Diagnostic Report, which
assesses the country’s preparedness to integrate artificial intelligence across
key sectors in a way that reflects national priorities and ensures broad-based
benefits.
According to the Ministry,
the diagnostic report is intended to provide a clear understanding of current
capabilities, gaps and opportunities in order to support evidence-based policy
formulation.
Over the next three days,
the Ministry will engage media organisations, civil society, government
institutions and private sector stakeholders in consultations designed to shape
the national strategy.
Officials say the process is
intended to ensure that the final strategy reflects the realities, priorities
and voices of Sierra Leoneans, including considerations around local languages
and cultural context.
The Ministry stated that the
development of the AI strategy will be anchored on collaboration, trust and
inclusive participation, positioning the country to harness artificial
intelligence for national development.
The National AI Strategy is
expected to provide a framework for the responsible deployment of AI
technologies across sectors while strengthening digital transformation efforts
in Sierra Leone.
