Sierra Leone has taken a bold step toward shaping its digital future with the launch of a national Artificial Intelligence (AI) Readiness Assessment, one of the first of its kind globally. The initiative, led by the Ministry of Communication, Technology and Innovation in partnership with the World Bank under the Sierra Leone Digital Transformation Project, is designed to ensure that AI is applied responsibly to tackle the nation’s most urgent development challenges.
Earlier this week, representatives from the World Bank joined government officials, academia, civil society, and private sector leaders in Freetown to review initial findings and engage in sector-wide consultations.
The assessment examines Sierra Leone’s preparedness across three critical dimensions: Compute (infrastructure), Capacity (skills and talent), and Context (policy and regulation). It will also highlight opportunities and gaps, providing a foundation for the country’s forthcoming National Artificial Intelligence Strategy.
“We are not asking how to fit AI into our systems; we are asking which national challenges AI can help us solve today,” said Salima Monorma Bah, Minister of Communication, Technology and Innovation.
The government has identified education, healthcare, and governance as priority areas where AI could unlock transformative outcomes. For instance, AI-powered tools could support teacher training, improve disease surveillance, and strengthen transparency in public services.
By adopting a proactive and inclusive approach, Sierra Leone is positioning itself as a regional leader in ethical AI deployment. The readiness assessment not only marks an important milestone for the country but also provides a model for other African nations exploring AI integration in ways that balance innovation with responsibility.
As the findings shape the development of Sierra Leone’s national strategy, the country’s experiment with AI readiness could redefine how emerging economies leverage technology to achieve sustainable growth.
