AYV News, March 31, 2026
Sierra Leone’s Vice President, Dr. Mohamed JuldehJalloh delivered the keynote address at the 20th ECOWAS ICT Council of Ministers Meeting held in Freetown, underscoring the pivotal role of digital transformation in driving West Africa’s socio-economic development.
In his address, Vice President Jalloh stressed the importance of regional cooperation to establish a single digital market for ECOWAS. He noted that such a market would enable businesses to operate seamlessly across borders, reduce operational costs, and create meaningful economic opportunities for citizens across the region.
He further highlighted that, under the leadership of President Julius Maada Bio as the current ECOWAS Chair, member states must continue prioritizing the development of interoperable digital infrastructure that is inclusive, accessible, and governed by clear regulatory frameworks.
The Vice President’s remarks emphasized the need for collaboration among West African states to harness digital technologies for sustainable economic growth, improved public service delivery, and regional integration.
Observers note that the meeting signals Sierra Leone’s continued commitment to leveraging digital innovation as a catalyst for regional development and economic competitiveness.
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Vice President Jalloh Calls for ECOWAS Digital Integration at ICT Ministers Meeting
Freetown, Sierra Leone — Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh has called on West African nations to deepen digital integration as a driver of regional development during his keynote address at the 20th ECOWAS ICT Council of Ministers Meeting held in Freetown.
Addressing delegates, Vice President Jalloh emphasised the need for cooperation to establish a single digital market across the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). Such a market, he said, would enable businesses to expand across borders, lower the cost of doing business, and generate tangible economic opportunities for citizens across the region.
He stressed that under the leadership of President Julius Maada Bio, who currently chairs ECOWAS, member states must prioritise the development of interoperable digital infrastructure that is inclusive, accessible, and governed by clear regulatory frameworks.
“The expansion of a regional digital ecosystem will not only strengthen economic competitiveness but also enhance public service delivery, cross-border trade, and regional integration,” Vice President Jalloh said.
The meeting brought together ICT ministers and representatives from across the West African region to discuss policies and strategies for advancing digital transformation, cybersecurity, and innovation-driven growth.
Analysts note that Sierra Leone’s leadership role in hosting the 20th Council of Ministers meeting signals the country’s commitment to leveraging technology as a key tool for socio-economic development and regional collaboration.
