By: Nana Appiah
Acquaye
Sierra Leone’s Minister of
Communication, Technology and Innovation, Hon. Salima Monorma Bah, is engaging
in high-level discussions at the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA81)
in New York, focusing on digital transformation, artificial intelligence
governance and inclusive innovation.
The Minister is
participating in conversations examining the future of technology in Africa and
beyond, with discussions covering digital public infrastructure, AI
sovereignty, women’s leadership in artificial intelligence and Sierra Leone’s
growing open-source journey.
Her engagements form part of
Sierra Leone’s efforts to contribute to international discussions on
communication, technology, innovation and policy while highlighting the
country’s priorities in the rapidly evolving digital economy.
Among the issues featuring
in the Minister’s engagements are digital public infrastructure and the
development of systems that can support more inclusive digital services.
AI sovereignty is also a key
area of discussion, alongside efforts to strengthen Africa’s ability to
participate in the development and governance of artificial intelligence rather
than remaining primarily a consumer of emerging technologies.
The Minister is further
contributing to conversations on the role of women in AI and innovation, as
well as Sierra Leone’s experience and ambitions around open-source technology.
Through the engagements at
UNGA81, Sierra Leone is positioning its digital transformation and innovation
priorities within broader international discussions on technology governance,
inclusion and the future of artificial intelligence.
