By Ibrahim Sesay

The Orange Foundation, in partnership with the Ministry of Communication, Technology and Innovation, has officially launched a major community development initiative with the sod-turning ceremony for the Orange Foundation Village at Felei Tech City in Jorborhun Village, Tikonko Chiefdom, Bo District.

The ceremony, held on Friday, May 29, 2026, marked the commencement of a transformative project that will deliver a Digital and Innovative Educational Learning Facility and a modern Medical Centre aimed at improving access to technology-driven education and quality healthcare services for rural communities in Sierra Leone.

The event attracted a wide range of stakeholders, including Orange Sierra Leone Chief Executive Officer, Aicha Toure, Government officials, traditional authorities, development partners, community leaders and residents, underscoring the strong partnership and collective commitment to advancing inclusive development and digital transformation in the country.

Speaking during the ceremony, Director of the Orange Foundation, Annie Wonnie Katta, described the project as a significant investment in people and communities, particularly young people. She noted that the initiative reflects the Orange Foundation’s continued commitment to promoting education, innovation and sustainable development across Sierra Leone.

According to Annie Wonnie Katta, the project is expected to be completed within 12 to 18 months and will provide opportunities for learning, skills development and improved healthcare delivery for residents of the area and surrounding communities.

Orange Sierra Leone Chief Executive Officer, Aicha Toure, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to empowering communities through strategic social investments. She emphasized that the Orange Foundation remains focused on supporting initiatives that improve livelihoods, create opportunities for young people and contribute meaningfully to national development.

Minister of Communication, Technology and Innovation, Salima Monorma Bah, commended the Orange Foundation for its continued collaboration with the Government of Sierra Leone. She stated that the project aligns with the Government’s vision of expanding access to technology, innovation, education and healthcare services, particularly in underserved communities.

The Minister noted that strengthening digital inclusion and providing opportunities for young people remain key priorities for the Government and described the initiative as an important contribution toward achieving those objectives.

The project also received strong support from local authorities. Paramount Chief of Tikonko Chiefdom, Joe Kangbai Macavoray and Chairman of the Bo District Council, Victor Kosseh Hindowa, both hailed the initiative as a transformative development that will significantly improve access to essential services for residents, especially women, young people and vulnerable groups.

Chief Executive Officer of Tech City, David Felei, expressed appreciation to the Ministry of Communication, Technology and Innovation and the Orange Foundation for partnering with Tech City to bring meaningful development to Jorborhun Village. He stated that the facility will become a centre for innovation, learning, creativity and empowerment, helping to nurture future generations of innovators and leaders.

In addition to launching the project, the Orange Foundation demonstrated its commitment to supporting education by donating learning materials to more than 100 pupils and students. The donated items included school bags, exercise books and mathematical sets, a gesture that was warmly welcomed by beneficiaries, parents and community members.

Upon completion, the Orange Foundation Village is expected to serve as a hub for innovation, education and healthcare delivery, providing critical services to residents while strengthening digital inclusion and community development efforts. The project is also expected to contribute significantly to improving educational opportunities, healthcare access and socio-economic growth in the region, further reinforcing the Orange Foundation’s role as a key partner in Sierra Leone’s development journey. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/orange-foundation-communications-ministry-turn-sod-for-transformative-village-project-in-bo/