By Saidu Jalloh, Reporter
Freetown, Sierra Leone – Africell Sierra Leone, through its Impact Foundation, has officially launched a state-of-the-art Learning and Training Center on Wilkinson Road. The unveiling ceremony, held on April 14, 2025, marks a significant milestone in the nation’s journey toward digital transformation and inclusive development.
The new facility aims to provide free access to digital learning resources, skill-building programs, and training opportunities for students, job seekers, and aspiring entrepreneurs. Equipped with modern learning infrastructure, the center is designed to foster knowledge-sharing and enhance employability, particularly among young people and marginalized groups.
The Learning and Training Center will offer structured digital literacy courses, ICT skill development, entrepreneurship training, and access to eLearning platforms, all aimed at bridging the digital divide and preparing Sierra Leone’s youth for the global digital economy.
At the event, Madam Salima Bah, Minister of Communication, Technology and Innovation, praised Africell for its unwavering commitment to corporate social responsibility and alignment with the government’s National Development Plan. She highlighted Africell’s support for women in leadership roles, surpassing the government’s 30% target, and recognized initiatives like the American Corner and Women in Tech as models for private sector inclusion and empowerment.
“The Learning Centre enhances government-private sector collaboration and significantly contributes to youth employment and digital skills development,” she stated. “This initiative complements our goal of creating 500,000 jobs, with 65,000 expected from the communications sector alone.”
Chernor Bah, Minister of Information and Civic Education, called Africell “a true partner to the people of Sierra Leone,” applauding the company for investing in infrastructure and promoting inclusive opportunities. “This center symbolizes Africell’s unwavering belief in the potential of Sierra Leone and its people,” he remarked.
Shadi Al-Gerjaw, CEO of Africell Sierra Leone, emphasized the company’s commitment to inclusivity 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 part of the broader strategy to improve lives and livelihoods.
Al-Gerjaw detailed the learning initiative, which will offer a wide range of digital and technical courses, mentorship opportunities, and e-learning content. He noted the success of previous digital training programs that have led to employment for many graduates and revealed that Africell has equipped over 500 schoolgirls and 60 female entrepreneurs in remote districts with essential digital skills. Additionally, he announced plans to launch Sierra Leone’s first AI-powered call center, which will operate seven days a week.
Maama Seiwoh-Koroma, Deputy Director General of the National Communications Authority (NaCTA), 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, encouraging future learners and entrepreneurs to utilize the center’s resources for Sierra Leone’s transformation.
During the ceremony, certificates were awarded to 11 students who successfully completed a previous digital training program supported by Africell.
With this new facility, Africell continues to solidify its role as not just a telecommunications provider but also a catalyst for national progress—empowering Sierra Leoneans with the tools they need to thrive in the digital era.
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