By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Salima Monorma Bah, Sierra Leone’s Minister of Communication, Technology and Innovation, has been named to TechCabal’s inaugural Builders’ List, an editorial index recognizing individuals making measurable and durable contributions to Africa’s technology ecosystem. Her inclusion places Sierra Leone firmly on the continental map of countries driving real digital transformation through policy, infrastructure and visionary public leadership.

Appointed at the age of 32 as Sierra Leone’s first Minister of Communication, Technology and Innovation, Salima Monorma Bah has approached public service with the urgency and execution mindset of a technology founder. Rather than limiting her role to regulation, she has positioned Government as an active architect of the digital ecosystem, aggressively engineering the systems required to unlock innovation and long-term growth. Her work aligns with President Dr. Julius Maada Bio’s vision of transforming Sierra Leone into the “Estonia of Africa” through digital governance, connectivity and innovation-led development.

Central to her tenure has been a bold focus on digital infrastructure as the foundation of innovation. Under her leadership, Sierra Leone’s international internet bandwidth capacity expanded dramatically from about 90 gigabits per second (Gbps) to over 500 Gbps. This leap has laid the groundwork for faster, more reliable connectivity and an open-access, 5G-ready network that lowers barriers for private sector participation. Speaking to TechCabal earlier this year, the Minister underscored the importance of infrastructure, noting that meaningful innovation cannot occur without strong digital rails.

Salima Monorma Bah’s philosophy is anchored in the belief that internet access is a basic human right and a catalyst for inclusive development. That conviction has translated into action, with more than US$132 million in direct Government investment channeled into digital infrastructure, access and ecosystem development during her tenure. Initiatives include connecting universities through satellite internet solutions such as Starlink, expanding open-access fibre networks and strengthening digital public infrastructure to support services delivery, innovation and governance.

One of the flagship projects under her leadership is the Felei Tech City, a 130-acre Special Economic Zone in Bo District. Designed as a “living lab” for startups, innovators and data centres, the project aims to decentralize innovation, attract investment and create a conducive environment for technology-led enterprises. The initiative reflects a strategic shift toward long-term ecosystem building, positioning Sierra Leone as a hub where talent is nurtured locally and connected globally.

Despite being a relatively small market, Sierra Leone has begun to think and act beyond its size. Under Salima Monorma Bah’s stewardship, the country is building systems where connectivity becomes currency and talent becomes a key export. Her work demonstrates that with clear vision, political will and capable leadership, smaller economies can compete meaningfully in the digital age.

TechCabal’s Builders’ List was launched to recognize individuals whose work is shaping Africa’s technology ecosystem beyond headlines and hype. Drawing from over 600 researched candidates across all 54 African countries, the editorial team assessed nominees based on what materially changed within the calendar year, considering context such as geography, regulation, capital access and institutional maturity. The final selections reflect durable impact rather than reputation or visibility alone.

The Builders’ List groups honourees into five categories: Operators, Innovators, Enablers, Organisers and Keepers, offering a comprehensive view of how Africa’s technology ecosystem functions. Salima Monorma Bah’s inclusion highlights the often under-recognized but critical role of public leadership in enabling technology ecosystems through infrastructure, policy and institutional reform.

Reacting to the recognition, the Ministry of Communication, Technology and Innovation described the honour as a testament to Sierra Leone’s growing role in Africa’s digital transformation. In a statement shared on its official Facebook page, the Ministry congratulated Salima Monorma Bah on being named to the list, noting that her selection reflects measurable progress in infrastructure development, digital access and ecosystem investment.

“This recognition by TechCabal places Sierra Leone on a continental map of builders driving real change,” the Ministry stated, adding that it underscores the importance of policy, infrastructure and public leadership in creating environments where innovation can thrive.

As Africa’s technology ecosystem enters what TechCabal describes as its “endurance era,” the focus is shifting from rapid growth and spectacle to durability, systems and long-term value. Salima Monorma Bah’s work exemplifies this transition; demonstrating how strategic public investment and thoughtful leadership can lay foundations that others can build on for years to come. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/salima-bah-named-to-techcabals-inaugural-builders-list-for-transforming-sierra-leones-digital-ecosystem/