Africell Sierra Leone, through its Impact Foundation, has launched a state-of-the-art Learning and Training Center at Wilkinson Road in Freetown. The unveiling ceremony, held on Monday 14th April, 2025, marks a significant milestone in the nation’s journey toward digital transformation and inclusive development.
The new facility is designed to provide free access to digital learning resources, skill-building programs, and training opportunities for students, job seekers, and aspiring entrepreneurs. The center is equipped with modern learning infrastructure to foster knowledge-sharing and enhance employability, especially among young people and marginalized groups.
The Learning and Training Centers will offer structured digital literacy courses, ICT skill development, entrepreneurship training, and access to eLearning platforms. The goal is to bridge the digital divide and prepare Sierra Leone’s youth for the demands of the global digital economy.
Speaking at the event, the Minister of Communication, Technology and Innovation, Madam Salima Bah, praised Africell for its steadfast dedication to corporate social responsibility and alignment with the government’s National Development Plan. She highlighted Africell’s ongoing support for women in leadership, surpassing the government’s 30% target as a model for private sector inclusion and empowerment. She also commended initiatives like the American Corner, Women in Tech, and the company’s strategic partnerships with academic institutions to develop digital skills.
The Communication minister lauded the Learning Centre’s role in enhancing government-private sector collaboration, emphasizing that such facilities contribute significantly to youth employment and digital skills development. “This initiative complements our goal of creating 500,000 jobs, with 65,000 anticipated from the communications sector alone,” she stated, urging young people to embrace digital learning from an early age to compete in the global digital economy.
The Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, in his address called Africell “a true partner to the people of Sierra Leone.” He applauded the company for investing in infrastructure, expanding connectivity, and promoting inclusive opportunities despite challenging conditions. “This centre symbolizes Africell’s unwavering belief in the potential of Sierra Leone and its people,” he said.
Shadi Al-Gerjaw, CEO of Africell Sierra Leone, underscored the company’s commitment to inclusivity, empowerment, and long-term social impact. “Telecommunications is more than just connectivity—it’s about creating sustainable pathways for growth,” he said. He announced the launch of Africell’s new customer care center alongside the Learning Centre, both forming part of the company’s broader strategy to improve lives and livelihoods.
He said Africell’s learning initiative will offer a wide range of digital and technical courses, mentorship opportunities, and e-learning content. He said it builds on past successes, such as digital training programs that have already led to employment for many graduates. The CEO also revealed that Africell has equipped over 500 schoolgirls and 60 female entrepreneurs in remote districts with essential digital skills. He announced that the company will soon launch Sierra Leone’s first-ever AI-powered call center, operating seven days a week with a customer satisfaction rate already above 98%.
The Deputy Director General of the National Communications Authority (NaCTA), Maama Seiwoh-Koroma, emphasized the initiative’s alignment with national goals to enhance connectivity and empower citizens. “In a fast-changing world, digital literacy is no longer optional; it is foundational,” she said. She encouraged future learners and entrepreneurs to fully utilize the center’s resources and drive innovation for Sierra Leone’s transformation.
In recognition of recent achievements, certificates were presented to 11 students who successfully completed the previous digital training program supported by Africell through the Africell Impact Foundation.
With this new facility, Africell continues to solidify its role not just as a telecommunications provider, but as a catalyst for national progress—empowering Sierra Leoneans with the tools they need to thrive in the digital era.
