By: Joseph Momoh, Reporter, D.S
At the World Bank Digital Summit 2025, Sierra Leone’s Minister of Communication, Technology, and Innovation, Salima Monorma Bah, participated in a pivotal panel discussion titled “AI Shaping Our Future World.” During the session, she underscored Sierra Leone’s commitment to integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into its national development strategy.
Minister Bah elaborated on the efforts of the Directorate of Science, Technology, and Innovation (DSTI) in formulating the National Innovation and Digital Strategy (NIDS), which aspires to position Sierra Leone as a regional AI hub. She highlighted the transformative potential of AI in enhancing governance through data-driven policy development and improved service delivery.
Citing projections, the Minister noted that AI could contribute approximately $2.9 trillion to Africa’s economy by 2030. She showcased several existing AI initiatives within Sierra Leone, including the Education Data Hub and AI-driven malaria detection projects in the healthcare sector.
Furthermore, Minister Bah advocated for responsible AI governance and the establishment of a comprehensive AI strategy, emphasizing the need for increased digital literacy to ensure equitable access to these technologies. She pointed out that AI adoption in critical sectors such as healthcare and agriculture is essential for stimulating economic growth and creating employment opportunities.
In her closing remarks, Minister Bah called on decision-makers to invest in AI education and infrastructure to adequately prepare Africa for a sustainable, AI-driven future.
The panel also included esteemed speakers such as Wencai Zhang, Managing Director and Chief Administrative Officer of the World Bank; Ravi Chaturvedi, Managing Director of The Digital Planet at Tufts University; Nelly Wilson, Global Head of AI at Google Weather and Climate; and Erdem Erkul, Chairman of Cerebrum Technologies.
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