At NaTCA Consumer Parliament…
Orange SL Reaffirms Massive Investment in Connectivity
Orange Sierra Leone has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding digital connectivity, improving customer experience, and deepening investments in Sierra Leone’s telecommunications sector during the National Communications Authority (NaTCA) Consumer Parliament held in Kenema under the theme: “Connectivity for Accelerated Growth.”
Representing Orange Sierra Leone at the high-level engagement, Alpha Bundu emphasized the company’s long-standing presence and contribution to the country’s telecommunications landscape, revealing that the company has operated in Sierra Leone for 29 years, tracing its roots back to Celtel, while Orange as a distinct brand has spent the last decade strengthening its footprint nationwide.
“Our presence here is to listen to the concerns of our customers because we believe our customers are our bosses,” Bundu stated, drawing applause from participants at the forum.
He disclosed that Orange Sierra Leone currently supports over 30,000 indirect jobs across the country through its vast network of franchise operators, agents, kiosks, Orange Money POS operators, and other distribution channels, describing distribution as one of the company’s greatest strengths in Sierra Leone.
Bundu further highlighted Orange’s massive infrastructure investments, revealing that the company has generated about 650 operational sites nationwide, including installations in difficult and remote areas with poor road access. According to him, despite logistical and operational challenges, Orange remains committed to extending connectivity to underserved communities.
He noted that approximately 29 percent of the company’s profits are reinvested into maintaining and expanding network sites and other operational services, while over 50 additional sites have recently been deployed as part of Orange’s continued nationwide expansion drive.
The Orange representative also underscored the company’s growing investment in 4G network technology, assuring consumers that the company will continue to innovate and improve service delivery across the country.
“We will continue to invest, innovate and improve connectivity for Sierra Leoneans,” he assured.
The NaTCA Consumer Parliament brought together key stakeholders in the telecommunications sector, including regulators, Members of Parliament, telecom operators, government officials, and consumers to discuss persistent connectivity challenges and strategies for improving digital access nationwide.
Speaking at the event, NaTCA Director General Amara Brewah said the regulator remains committed to ensuring that mobile operators comply with their obligations to consumers while also serving as an intermediary between service providers and the public.
Chairman of the Parliamentary Oversight Committee on Communication and Technology, Hon. Boston Munda, described network connectivity as a major concern for citizens, stressing the need for accountability and consumer protection within the telecommunications sector.
Meanwhile, the Minister of Communication and Technology disclosed that over 400 million dollars has been invested in Sierra Leone’s telecommunications sector over the past five years, resulting in the expansion of network coverage by the country’s four telecom operators. However, she acknowledged that significant challenges still remain, particularly theft and vandalism of communication equipment.
The event also featured presentations from Africell.sl, Qcell.sl, Sierratel and other industry players, all of whom outlined ongoing investments aimed at improving telecommunications services across Sierra Leone.