Freetown, Sierra Leone — The Ministry of Communication, Technology and Innovation (MoCTI) has entered into a new partnership with the SIGN Foundation to advance the country’s digital transformation through the development of blockchain-based national systems.
The agreement, formalised in a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), aims to position Sierra Leone as a regional leader in emerging technologies such as blockchain and Artificial Intelligence.
The initiative is expected to enhance transparency, expand financial inclusion, and improve the delivery of public services nationwide.
Under the deal, the SIGN Foundation will spearhead the creation of key digital infrastructure, including a national digital identity system, a digital wallet platform, and a framework for asset tokenisation. The organisation will also provide technical expertise and investment support, while working alongside local institutions to build local capacity and skills.
MoCTI will guide the policy and regulatory framework of the project to ensure alignment with the national digital agenda. Felei TechCity, the government’s designated innovation zone, will serve as the operational hub for implementation.
A joint investment mobilisation approach is also outlined in the agreement, with SIGN and a government-designated body set to co-manage project funding under transparent accountability measures.
The Economic and Commercial Office of the Embassy of Sierra Leone in China will support international collaboration by connecting global partners, investors, and technical experts.
The rollout will follow a Strategic Implementation Roadmap, focusing initially on establishing a National Digital Identity Infrastructure, integrating Digital Wallet systems, introducing blockchain-based payment platforms, and developing tools for digitising and tokenising assets.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, Minister of Communication, Technology and Innovation, Hon. Salima Monorma Bah, described the partnership as a milestone for the country’s digital future.
“This marks a defining step toward building the digital backbone that will power Sierra Leone’s next phase of inclusive growth and technological leadership,” she said.
The partnership reflects the government’s broader commitment to leverage technology for job creation, improved governance, and a more inclusive digital economy.
About the Ministry of Communication, Technology and Innovation**
MoCTI leads Sierra Leone’s national ICT and innovation agenda. Through initiatives such as Felei Tech City, the Sierra Leone Digital Transformation Project, and the Big 5 Innovation Investment Challenge, the Ministry promotes digital skills development, innovation, and economic empowerment.
About SIGN Foundation
The SIGN Foundation is a global digital infrastructure organisation that works with governments and major institutions to develop sovereign blockchain networks and public digital systems. Its areas of expertise include decentralised identity, digital payments, and distributed ledger technologies.
