By Saidu Jalloh, Daily Scope Reporter
In a significant move to showcase its commitment to national development, Orange Sierra Leone has released its 2024 Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Report, highlighting notable achievements in economic growth, digital empowerment, environmental sustainability, and community well-being.
The report reflects the company’s dedication to supporting government priorities and enhancing the lives of Sierra Leoneans through inclusive and responsible business practices.
A Strong Economic Contribution
Orange Sierra Leone made a substantial impact on the national economy in 2024, contributing NLe781 million through various channels including taxes, licenses, and wages. This financial boost was complemented by the company’s efforts to uplift local businesses, generating an impressive NLe998 million in revenue for Sierra Leonean suppliers across multiple sectors. Such initiatives align with Orange’s strategy to prioritize local partnerships, reinforcing domestic value chains.
Bridging the Digital Divide
One of the standout highlights of the report is the expansion of digital access across the country. By the end of 2024, a remarkable 95% of the population was covered by 4G broadband, allowing more individuals to tap into online services, educational resources, and business opportunities. Demonstrating a commitment to sustainability, approximately 70% of Orange’s network sites are now powered by solar energy, reducing carbon emissions while ensuring network resilience.
Environmental Stewardship
In a bid to address environmental challenges, Orange has launched a reforestation initiative that saw the planting of 10,000 trees in Kawase Hill, Moyamba District. This effort is aimed at restoring degraded land, protecting biodiversity, and enhancing climate resilience in rural communities, showcasing the company’s dedication to environmental stewardship.
Empowering the Youth
The Orange Digital Center (ODC) has emerged as a beacon of hope for youth empowerment, serving as a hub for education, innovation, and entrepreneurship. In 2024, the center trained over 14,500 young people in vital skills such as digital literacy, coding, and entrepreneurship. Notably, women comprised 47% of the trainees, reflecting Orange’s commitment to gender inclusion. Furthermore, 38% of participants successfully secured jobs or initiated income-generating activities, illustrating the center’s positive impact on employability.
Community Support Through the Foundation
Through its foundation, Orange has positively impacted 14,627 beneficiaries nationwide with programs focused on education, health, women’s empowerment, youth development, and community resilience. Initiatives have included scholarships, support for rural schools, digital education for girls, maternal health partnerships, and awareness campaigns for breast cancer.
A Vision for the Future
The CSR Report emphasizes Orange Sierra Leone’s ongoing commitment to supporting the government’s development agenda, particularly in the areas of digitalization, youth employment, community health, and economic sustainability. CEO Sekou Amadou Bah encapsulated this vision in his statement: “Our CSR ambition reflects our brand values: Care, Bold, and Responsible. It embodies our renewed message: Orange is Here! This presence goes beyond the physical; it symbolizes our unwavering dedication to improving the lives of Sierra Leoneans in meaningful and sustainable ways.”
With its ambitious goals and growing impact, Orange Sierra Leone is not only positioning itself as a leader in connectivity and innovation but also as a vital force for national transformation.
For those interested in exploring the full report, a QR code is available for scanning, or it can be accessed through the company’s official website.
For more information, contact Daily Scope Newspaper at dailyscopemedia@gmail.com.
