Africell Drives Digital Inclusion at 2025 Sierra Leone Innovates Summit


Africell Sierra Leone has once again positioned itself at the forefront of the nation’s digital revolution, playing a leading role in the 2025 Sierra Leone Innovates Digital Government Summit held in Freetown.

Organized by the Ministry of Communication, Technology, and Innovation (MoCTI), the high-level summit brought together government officials, private sector stakeholders, youth innovators, and international partners to explore pathways for a smarter, more inclusive digital future.

Africell, one of the summit’s main sponsors, was not just a financial partner but an active contributor to its vision and success. The company’s Chief Operating Officer, Malek El Koussa, praised the event’s organization and the government’s commitment to pushing the digital agenda.

“This year’s summit has truly raised the bar,” El Koussa stated. “We are proud to be a part of this moment where the President’s directives have clearly defined the digital vision of Sierra Leone. It’s now our shared responsibility both public institutions and private enterprises to align with that vision and deliver innovation that touches real lives.”

At its vibrant exhibition booth, Africell showcased a suite of advanced technologies, many of which are aimed at bridging the digital divide across Sierra Leone. Among the highlights was the introduction of AI EVA, a voice-powered artificial intelligence service capable of responding to verbal queries in local languages ideal for users without smartphones or internet access. Tailored for farmers, traders, students, and underserved populations, AI EVA supports digital inclusion in rural and low-literacy communities.

Africell also exhibit its AfriGBT, a localized version of the popular ChatGPT model, adapted to work offline and on basic devices. Both tools are designed to democratize access to knowledge and education through artificial intelligence.

“We believe that the future belongs to the youth and to the dreamers,” El Koussa added. “Platforms like this summit give them the opportunity to see how technology can truly shape their destiny.”

Beyond AI, Africell spotlighted its technological infrastructure, including 5G routers, Samsung smart devices, and its increasingly popular Star Fiber home internet bundles. The company is also the authorized distributor for Samsung in Sierra Leone, making high-quality devices more accessible to Sierra Leoneans.

In the financial sector, Africell demonstrated the capabilities of its Afrimoney platform, now offering seamless international remittance services. With digital finance becoming an integral part of daily life, Africell is expanding services to remote and unbanked communities, strengthening its position as a leader in financial technology.

In a strong message to Sierra Leone’s youth and broader public, El Koussa emphasized the urgency of adapting to technological change.

“Change is inevitable. We once moved from analog phones to smartphones now we are moving from manual to digital systems,” he said. “If you resist technology, it will leave you behind. If you embrace it, it will uplift you.”

The summit highlighted the vital role that private sector companies like Africell play in achieving the government’s national digital transformation goals. With President Julius Maada Bio’s administration pushing for innovation-driven governance, Africell’s contributions reaffirm its position as not just a telecom provider but a true partner in progress.




Source link

Orange Sierra Leone Launches ‘Pay as You Go’ Energy Solar kits


Orange Energy was launched in June 2020. The idea of orange energy was born out of a survey that was conducted to know the immediate need of our customers particularly in rural areas.

The report shows that people were in dire need of energy to provide basic lighting services and to be able to charge their phones to stay connected to their loved ones & business associates.

Orange Energy allows households without access to energy to buy a solar kit with the money they would have spent on candles and oil lamps. They can buy the solar kit by paying small sums via Orange Money each week or each month (pay as you go).

Our business model is Pay as you Go (PAYG) which means that we sell our solar kits on credit. Customers must make an upfront payment plus at least one month subscription fee to start using the service. Further payments are made on monthly basis for a specified period at the end of which the product becomes free for the customer. During this period if the Solar Kits is faulty, which is not the fault of the customer, orange will either repair or replace the device immediately.

This opportunity comes at a time when there is global clamour for the adoption of clean energy. Orange Energy provides reliable and environmentally friendly energy that meets the environmental requirements without compromising the safety of our customers and the future generation.

Orange energy carters for the needs of both urban and rural families that are not connected to the national grid and provides a solution in the event of load shedding.

For further information please contact all orange facilities across the Country.




Source link

Orange Money and AMJAM Launch KwikMoni Loan Service to Empower Small Businesses in Sierra Leone


Orange Mobile Finance SL Ltd (OMFSL) and AMJAM & Associates Ltd have introduced a groundbreaking financial initiative aimed at boosting small businesses across Sierra Leone.

The KwikMoni Loan Service, officially launched on Monday, offers digital microloans to Orange Money subscribers, agents, and merchants, providing them with quick access to credit.

The launch event, held on 5th May 2025, at the OMFSL head office, drew key stakeholders, including executives from OMFSL, representatives from AMJAM, financial institution delegates, Orange Money partners, and members of the press. The atmosphere was vibrant with optimism as industry leaders highlighted the potential of KwikMoni to transform financial inclusion and support entrepreneurship.

A Digital Solution for Financial Empowerment

KwikMoni is designed as a fast, secure, and entirely digital loan service. It enable users to borrow money directly from AMJAM with funds deposited into their OM wallets. Developed by AMJAM, the service leverages a data-driven scoring model to assess eligibility, offering loan amounts ranging from NLe1,000 to NLe5,000 for agents and merchants, and up to NLe1,000 for subscribers.

Loans are available 24/7, with repayment periods of 7 days for agents and 30 days for merchants and subscribers. The initiative is tailored to meet liquidity challenges faced by small business owners, helping them manage stock, cover short-term expenses, and maintain cash flow.

Voices from the Leadership

During the event, Sekou Amadu Bah, Board Chairman of OMFSL, underscored the strategic importance of KwikMoni:

“We are breaking down barriers that have kept too many out of formal credit systems. KwikMoni is not just a service, it’s an opportunity for growth and financial empowerment.”

David Samba Mansaray, CEO of Orange Mobile Finance SL Ltd, emphasized KwikMoni’s potential to drive economic resilience:

“KwikMoni is more than just a loan, it’s a tool for empowerment. Whether you’re a market woman, taxi driver, or small shop owner, this service grants you immediate access to working capital, helping you grow your business and secure your livelihood.”

Marju Jalloh, CCO of AMJAM, representing the CEO, highlighted the partnership between AMJAM and OMFSL:

“This collaboration showcases the transformative potential of technology. KwikMoni embodies trust, inclusion, and innovative finance values central to our commitment to the community.”

Who Can Benefit from KwikMoni?

KwikMoni is accessible to:

  • Fully registered Orange Money subscribers
  • Orange Money merchants
  • Orange Money agents

Eligibility is based on transaction consistency and usage patterns on the Orange Money platform. To apply, users simply dial:

  • #144*7# for Subscribers
  • #145*9#, select option 12 for Agents
  • #146*9# for Merchants

Empowering the Informal Economy

The introduction of KwikMoni is expected to significantly impact the informal sector, which forms a large part of Sierra Leone’s business landscape. By providing easy and immediate access to credit, the service helps bridge the financing gap that many small enterprises face.

Business owners, including traders, Keke riders, and kiosk operators, no longer need to rely on informal borrowing. The digital nature of KwikMoni means they can secure loans without leaving their workplace—no paperwork, no collateral, and no queues.

Moving Forward

KwikMoni marks the latest in a series of financial innovations from OMFSL and AMJAM, focused on expanding digital financial services to underserved communities. With a growing user base exceeding 2 million, the companies remain committed to fostering economic resilience through accessible and innovative solutions.

For more information, customers are encouraged to contact Orange Money Customer Service, dialling: 111.

This launch marks a pivotal step in Sierra Leone’s journey towards inclusive financial services, offering small businesses a reliable way to access credit and strengthen their economic stability.

 




Source link

GTBank Sierra Leone Dismisses Fake Social Media Posts of Closure


Guaranty Trust Bank SL Ltd (GTBank) has issued a strong rebuttal against a “spurious” social media post circulating online.

The post alleges that the Bank of Sierra Leone (BSL) is poised to shut down GTBank’s operations due to alleged falsification of accounts and conspiracy.

In a notice released today, May 6, 2025, the Bank categorically stated that the claim is “completely false and is designed to bring the image of the Bank and its officers to disrepute.”

GTBank emphasized that while it would not engage in public disputes with every media report, it “will not hesitate to pursue legal action for defamation against our brand or for inaccurate reporting.”

The Bank moved to reassure the public of its unwavering commitment to ethical practices. As a “industry leader with more than twenty years of operation in this esteemed country,” GTBank stated it “adhere[s] to strong corporate governance and strictly comply[ies] with both national laws and the policies set forth by our regulators,” including the BSL.

GTBank strongly urged its customers and the general public to “completely disregard this unfounded allegation.” The Bank reiterated its commitment to “maintaining the highest ethical standards and will never partake in any unethical practices.”

The notice concluded with a message of gratitude to the public for their “continued support and trust.”

The notice was issued by Corporate Communications of Guaranty Trust Bank SL Ltd on May 6, 2025.




Source link

Orange Sierra Leone Breaks Ground on New Health Centre in Wai Village


In a significant step towards strengthening healthcare delivery in rural Sierra Leone, Orange Sierra Leone has officially turn sod for the construction of a fully-funded health centre in Wai Village, Soro Gbeima Chiefdom, Pujehun District, Southern Province of Sierra Leone.

The symbolic turning of the sod ceremony was held on Wednesday, 16th April 2025, and brought together government officials, local authorities, development partners, and community stakeholders. The project, spearheaded and financed entirely by Orange Sierra Leone, aims to improve access to quality healthcare services for residents of the chiefdom and surrounding communities.

In his welcome address on behalf of the paramount chief of the chiefdom, Augustine Jah Zoker, Chiefdom Speaker, Soro Gbeima Chiefdom, described the initiative as a life-changing investment for the people of Wai and neighboring villages, all of which have long struggled with access to basic healthcare services.

“This health centre will not only serve the residents of Wai Village but also support surrounding communities in the chiefdom,” he stated. “It is a major step toward solving the long-standing health challenges our people have endured.”

He noted that the only existing health centre in Wai was severely under-resourced, lacking both equipment and personnel to effectively cater to the growing population. As a result, residents often had to travel long distances to seek medical attention in larger towns, a situation he described as unacceptable in the modern era.
Zoker also acknowledged the strong community loyalty to Orange Sierra Leone, revealing that a majority of residents in the area are already subscribers to the network.

 

“Let me proudly inform Orange Sierra Leone that most of our people here are using your services. With this remarkable support to our community, we assure you that we will continue to support your brand. You are not just a company to us anymore you are a trusted partner in our development journey.”

Sheikh Hussein Feika, speaking on behalf of his elder brother Sheikh Feika Salim, Chief of Staff in the Office of the First Lady, expressed deep appreciation to Orange Sierra Leone for its commitment to enhancing healthcare in the chiefdom.

Feika revealed that his brother, Sheikh Feika Salim, had played a vital role in advocating for the project on behalf of the community through the Office of the First Lady. He noted that the successful lobbying effort resulted in the selection of Wai Village for the construction of the facility.

“For years, the people of Wai Village and neighboring communities have struggled with access to proper healthcare,” Feika said. “Pregnant women, in particular, face great risks, as they are often forced to travel over 100 miles to Pujehun Township to access better-equipped medical facilities. Sadly, many are forced to give birth along the highway, putting both mothers and newborns at serious risk.”

Feika emphasized that the construction of the health centre would be a transformational development for the area, improving health outcomes and saving lives, especially for vulnerable women and children.

Despite the joyous occasion, he mentioned that the community was mourning the recent loss of a beloved resident Ign. Munda Emmanuel Rogers, which slightly overshadowed the celebration. However, due to the significance of the project for the future of the village, the event proceeded as planned.

He concluded by noting that the new health centre when completed will bring relief to thousands of residents in Wai and surrounding villages who have long faced challenges in accessing timely and quality healthcare.

On his part, Sekou Amadou Bah, Chief Executive Officer of Orange Sierra Leone, emphasized that the project is more than just the construction of a building it is a commitment to hope, dignity, and a healthier future.

“Today, we are not only building walls. We are building hope. We are building dignity. We are building a healthier future for every man, woman, and child of this region,” Mr. Bah declared. “At Orange Sierra Leone, we believe true development is about impact supporting communities, empowering individuals, and transforming lives.”

Bah noted that Orange’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) framework rests on three core pillars: health, education, and culture. He highlighted that this health centre stands as a living testament to the company’s promise to make healthcare a right for all, not a privilege for a few.

CEO further stressed that a truly healthy community must also be educated and culturally enriched. “That is why, across the country, we are investing in schools, supporting digital learning, and promoting Sierra Leone’s rich cultural heritage,” he added.

The construction of the Wai Village Health Centre is the result of a collaborative vision supported by the Office of the First Lady, the Ministry of Health, and local leadership. Bah extended appreciation to all stakeholders involved in bringing the project to life, including planners, architects, and the future medical personnel who will serve the facility.

“To the people of Wai Town, this is your project. This is your future. Orange is here not only as a company but as a partner investing in your health, your learning, and your legacy,” Bah concluded.

In his keynote address, Dr. Charles Senessie, Deputy Minister I of Health and Sanitation, lauded Orange Sierra Leone for their support to rural healthcare through the turning of the sod for the construction of a new health centre in Wai Village, Soro Gbeima Chiefdom, fully funded by the company which he described the project as a vital step in complementing the government’s efforts to improve healthcare delivery across the country.

“Government alone cannot do everything,” he said. “We rely on partnerships with the private sector, and Orange is demonstrating a commendable commitment to national development.”

Dr. Senessie explained that the Ministry of Health has adopted a comprehensive, life-saving approach to healthcare that addresses the needs of individuals from pregnancy to old age, instead of focusing on isolated issues.

He emphasized that improving access to health facilities remains a top priority, and the construction of the health centre in Wai Village is aligned with that goal. He also revealed that the Ministry is pursuing an overall strategy to improve quality of life, which is anchored on four key pillars: infrastructure, human resources, medication, and laboratory services.

“Orange Sierra Leone is helping us address one of those key pillars infrastructures,” he noted. “And this will also help complement the other areas such as laboratory services and availability of medication.”
Highlighting the impact of improved health infrastructure, Dr. Senessie shared that Sierra Leone has recorded a significant drop in maternal mortality rates.

“In 2014, our maternal mortality rate stood at nearly 1,000 deaths per 100,000 live births. Today, I’m pleased to say we’ve reduced that figure to about 354 per 100,000. That is a major achievement,” he said.

He concluded by stating that the construction of the new health centre in Wai Village will further contribute to reducing maternal and child mortality in the region and enhance access to quality healthcare for surrounding communities.

The project marks a critical milestone in Orange Sierra Leone’s ongoing efforts to bridge healthcare gaps and uplift underserved communities across the country. The event ended with the officially turning of the sod by key dignitaries present.




Source link

Bank of Sierra Leone Extends Deadline for National Payments Switch Integration


The Bank of Sierra Leone has announced an extension of the deadline for all financial institutions and fintech companies to fully integrate into the National Payments Switch.

In a press release issued on April 10, the bank stated that the new deadline is now set for June 30, 2025, extending the original date of March 31, 2025.

This extension is aimed at accommodating financial institutions and fintechs that were not ready to complete their integration by the initial deadline. All institutions are now required to route all domestic transactions through the National Switch to enhance the efficiency and security of payments in Sierra Leone.

The Bank of Sierra Leone has formally instructed all financial institutions and fintechs that have not yet joined the National Switch to engage with the National Switch Department to ensure complete integration into the system.

Additionally, the bank has confirmed that all existing bilateral arrangements between financial institutions and fintechs will remain permissible during the extended period from March 31 to June 30, 2025. By the end of this period, the Bank of Sierra Leone expects all institutions to be fully integrated into the National Payments Switch.




Source link

What Sierra Leoneans Ought to Know About Trump’s 10% Tariffs


Sierra Leone’s exports to the USA will confront a 10% tariff, but specific products affected aren’t listed. Be that as it may, considering Sierra Leone’s export profile, likely impacted products may include:

Rutile and other minerals.

Agricultural Products: Exports like cocoa, coffee, and other agricultural commodities might also face the 10% tariff.
Other products : The country also exports other products like titanium ore, aluminum ore, and fish, but these might not be specifically destined for the US market.

Exports to the USA account for a moderately small portion of its GDP. According to the available data, in 2024, Sierra Leone’s total exports were valued at $1.54 billion, with the majority going to countries like China, South Korea, and the Netherlands.

As for GDP, Sierra Leone’s economy is valued at $7.41 billion in 2024, with a GDP per capita of $856.

IMPACT

A 10% US tariff on Sierra Leone’s exports would likely have a negative impact on the country’s GDP. Sierra Leone’s economy relies heavily on exports, particularly in the mining and agricultural sectors.

An increase in tariffs would make Sierra Leone’s exports more expensive for US consumers, potentially leading to a decrease in demand and subsequently, a decline in exports.

This decrease in exports would likely have a ripple effect on Sierra Leone’s economy, impacting various sectors, including employment, investment, and government revenue. As a result, the country’s GDP could contract, exacerbating poverty and inequality.

Trade Imbalance: Sierra Leone has a trade deficit with the US, which means it imports more from the US than it exports. A 10% tariff on Sierra Leone’s exports to the US could worsen this imbalance, potentially hurting Sierra Leone’s economy.

Key Trade Figures :

US Exports to Sierra Leone: $109.67 million
US Imports from Sierra Leone*: $29.61 million
So, as of 2024, the trade balance is $80.06million in favor of the US.

– Trade composition : Sierra Leone’s exports to the US are mainly raw materials like diamonds, iron ore, and cocoa beans. These products might become more expensive for US consumers due to the tariff, potentially reducing demand and affecting Sierra Leone’s export revenue.

– Economic impact: The tariff could lead to higher prices for Sierra Leonean goods in the US market, making them less competitive. This might result in reduced exports, lower government revenue, and a potential decline in GDP.

With Sierra Leone’s current GDP at $7.41 billion, let’s recalculate the impact of a 10% tariff on its exports to the US.

Sierra Leone’s Trade with the US

– Export Value : Sierra Leone’s exports to the US are valued at $27 million.
– Tariff Rate: A 10% tariff would increase the cost of these exports by $2.7 million.

Impact on GDP
– Tariff Cost as a Percentage of GDP*: The $2.7 million tariff cost would be equivalent to about 0.036% of Sierra Leone’s GDP ($7.41 billion).

It’s worth noticing that Sierra Leone is not alone in facing US tariffs . Numerous African countries are subject to varying tariff rates, ranging from 10% to as high as 93% in the case of Madagascar. However, the impact of these tariffs can be particularly severe for smaller economies like Sierra Leone, which depend heavily on international trade to drive growth and development.

Any slowdown in China would matter more to Sierra Leone. The share of Sierra Leone’s exports going to China is triple that going to the US. It does not look likely that US taxes will cause a very high amount of pain to China, or to its trading partners.

Top Export Partners :
– China: 18.3% of Sierra Leone’s global exports, with a value of $1.03 billion in 2023
– India: 96.5 million
– Belgium: 72.5 million

Sierra Leone should be worried because taxes are inflationary, and they might prompt the US Federal Reserve to raise interest rates, or cut interest rates.

In conclusion, whereas the 10% USA tax might have a negative impact on Sierra Leone’s GDP, the extent of this impact will depend on various factors, including trade agreements and diversification efforts. Sierra Leone must diversify our exports, the trouble is President Bio doesn’t understand the ECONOMY.




Source link

Pee Cee & Sons Secures $12 Million International Funding to Develop Onion Farm in Sierra Leone


The International Finance Corporation (IFC) has committed $12 million to support the development of Sierra Leone’s first commercial-scale onion farming operation, in partnership with Pee Cee Holding Ltd. (PCH).

The investment is expected to transform the country’s agricultural landscape, boost local food production, and reduce dependence on imported onions.

The funding will go to Pee Cee Agriculture (PCA), the agribusiness subsidiary of PCH, to establish a fully irrigated and mechanized 500-hectare farm. The facility will produce over 40,000 tons of onions annually, alongside other essential crops such as maize and potatoes. Designed to operate year-round, the project integrates precision irrigation technology, modern machinery, and advanced storage systems to reduce post-harvest losses and enhance supply chain efficiency.

“This investment is a game-changer for Sierra Leone’s agricultural sector,” said Mahesh Nandwani, CEO of PCH. “With IFC’s support, we are proving that high-quality, large-scale food production is achievable within the country—building a model for food security, job creation, and long-term sustainability.”

The project comes at a critical time for Sierra Leone, where the majority of onions and several key staples are still imported. By strengthening domestic production, the initiative aims to make food more accessible and affordable, while also offering employment and skills training opportunities, particularly for rural women.

Beyond funding, IFC has played a significant role in developing PCA’s model over the past four years. The partnership included technical advisory support to improve operational efficiency, environmental performance, and risk mitigation. Pilot programs led by IFC demonstrated dramatic improvements, with onion yields increasing tenfold compared to national averages.

“Investing in sustainable agriculture is essential for building economic resilience and reducing reliance on imports,” said Dahlia Khalifa, IFC Regional Director for Central Africa and Anglophone West Africa. “This partnership with PCH sets a new standard for commercial farming in Sierra Leone and across the region.”

PCH, which started as Pee Cee & Sons and has grown into one of Sierra Leone’s most prominent consumer goods companies, is leveraging its extensive distribution network to ensure local market access for the farm’s output. Through its subsidiaries, including Milla Group and Jolaks Manufacturing, PCH has already demonstrated its capacity for industrial innovation and market leadership.

This venture into agriculture represents a strategic expansion for the group, with a strong focus on climate-smart farming, food system resilience, and community impact. It also aligns with IFC’s broader goals of fostering inclusive private sector development across Africa.

With construction underway and a strong foundation already in place, the PCA project is expected to serve as a blueprint for future agri-investments in West Africa, delivering long-term value to farmers, consumers, and the wider economy.




Source link

Orange Sierra Leone Commitment to Reliable Mobile Network Services in Sierra Leone


Orange Sierra Leone (OSL) is committed to providing the best telecommunications services to all Sierra Leoneans.

Orange Sierra Leone PRO, Alfie Barrie commented that “The Company has invested over $50 million in network expansion and modernization and that its significant investment included swapping more than 500+ sites to 4G, even in the most remote area”.

He further stated that “the dedicated technicians worked tirelessly through challenging times and extreme weather conditions to complete these installations, demonstrating commitment to connecting all communities”.

Adding that “the Company acknowledges the disruptions to customers experience that occurred during the network upgrade. Some of the challenges encountered by the operator were also caused by factors such as unavailability of internet service from third-party service providers, malicious damage to the fibre connections and disruptions to the company’s energy supply.”.

Despite these hurdles, Orange is proud to announce that all its sites are now on 4G, providing faster internet speeds and improved quality in voice and data. The Company’s commitment to powering its operations is further demonstrated by an investment of up to $17million on energy optimization.

At a time when telecoms companies are battling with Infrastructural limitations in underserved areas, as rural areas often lack the requisite incentives required to attract high-cost traditional telecommunication sites, which continues to leave huge amount of people deprived off connectivity limiting their economic ability to expand and connect with other businesses, Orange Sierra Leone is excited to announce the launch of its ten (10) new solar powered deep rural sites enhancing connectivity for underserved areas and enabling small businesses to expand and grown through enhanced connectivity opening them up to more opportunities. The 10 deep rural sites are now on air at the following provincial towns: Sahn, Fanima, Tawuya, Pehala, Gbonkonka, Robaka, Mabang Mamutha, Falla, Futta.

Mr Barrie stated that “Orange remains strong and focused despite facing many intimations from the media with intent to tarnish the reputation of and credibility of the brand and considers recent media publications attacking the leadership of the company to be malicious and unfounded. The company’s brand values of care, responsible and bold are firmly rooted in its culture and will continue meet the meets of its customer and provide an unmatched customer experience”.

Orange Sierra Leone remains resolute to increase it network availability across the Country. Orange is Here! Orange De ya!




Source link

Orange Sierra Leone Launches 7th Edition of Social Venture Prize to Boost Innovation and Entrepreneurship


Orange Sierra Leone has announced the launch of the 7th edition of the Orange Social Venture Prize (OSVP) in Sierra Leone, coinciding with the 15th edition in Africa and the Middle East. This initiative aims to support social innovation and foster local entrepreneurship within the region.

The competition officially opens for applications today, March 11th, 2025. Applicants from Sierra Leone and the 16 other Orange affiliates in Africa and the Middle East are required to submit their applications for both the National and International competitions. The deadline for applications is May 18th, 2025.

Interested applicants can register and submit their applications at: https://poesam.orange.com/en/

Additional information about the OSVP can be found at: https://www.orange.com/en/osvp

Through this competition, Orange Sierra Leone seeks to contribute to human capital development, support local social and environmental innovations, and encourage entrepreneurship in Sierra Leone.

Since 2019, the OSVP has recognized innovative projects in various fields, including education, healthcare, e-commerce, and agriculture, as well as projects that contribute to achieving sustainable development goals through digital technology.

The competition will be held in two stages:

1. National Stage:

  • Applications for the National and Women’s competitions will be accepted from March 11th to May 18th, 2025.
  • A national pitch competition will be held in August 2025 to award the National and Women’s category winners.
  • The winners will receive the following prizes:
    • NLe 200,000 – National Winner
    • NLe 120,000 – Women’s Winner

2. International Stage:

  • The National and Women’s category winners from each subsidiary in the 17 Orange affiliates will automatically be selected for the international phase.
  • Following evaluation, 10 finalists will be chosen.
  • A final jury of African tech influencers will select the top 3 winners of the OSVP International Grand Prize in October/November 2025.
  • An International Women’s Prize will also be awarded for the fifth consecutive year to a woman offering a technological solution to improve the living conditions of women. This includes solutions focused on women’s independence, job creation or preservation, gender data collection, and digital and financial inclusion.
  • The winners of the international and women’s competition will receive the following prizes:
    • €25,000 for 1st place international winner
    • €15,000 for 2nd place international winner
    • €10,000 for 3rd place international winner
    • €20,000 for Women’s international winner

About Orange Sierra Leone

Orange Sierra Leone is a leading telecommunications operator and service provider in Sierra Leone, licensed by the National Communication Authority. The company is dedicated to meeting the socio-economic needs of the society. Orange Sierra Leone’s strategic objective is to become a responsible Corporate Social Investor and to improve the daily lives of the people in Sierra Leone through responsible and valuable digital experiences.

Orange Middle East and Africa (OMEA)

Orange has a presence in 18 countries across Africa and the Middle East, serving over 143 million customers as of December 31, 2022. With revenues of 6.9 billion euros in 2022, Orange MEA is the Orange group’s leading growth area. Orange Money, its mobile-based money transfer and financial services offering, is available in 17 countries and has more than 80 million customers. As a multi-service operator, Orange is a key partner in the digital transformation, providing expertise to support the development of new digital services in Africa and the Middle East.




Source link