Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to Switzerland and Permanent Representative to the United Nations Office and other International Organizations in Geneva, Dr. Lansana Gberie, has reaffirmed President Julius Maada Bio’s vision of making digital transformation a driving force for economic growth, innovation, and regional integration.

Speaking at the 31st Session of the United Nations Committee of Experts on International Cooperation in Tax Matters, held at the Palais des Nations in Geneva, Ambassador Gberie participated in a high-level panel discussion titled “Leveraging Digital Transformation for Regional Integration – From Policy to Practice.”

He outlined Sierra Leone’s growing momentum in advancing digitalization under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework, highlighting key national initiatives such as the Updated National Trade Strategy (2024–2030) and the AfCFTA Readiness Report. These, he said, underscore the Government’s commitment to fostering a conducive environment for trade and technology-driven development.

Ambassador Gberie further noted Sierra Leone’s ongoing partnerships with global institutions, including the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), World Bank, and the Commonwealth Secretariat, aimed at strengthening digital skills, supporting entrepreneurship, and promoting inclusive economic growth.

He also reaffirmed the country’s collaboration with the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) on the forthcoming e-Trade Readiness Assessment, which will form the basis for a National E-Commerce Strategy to enhance Sierra Leone’s participation in regional and global digital markets.

“Digital transformation is not only about technology,” Ambassador Gberie emphasized. “It is about creating opportunities — connecting people, businesses, and ideas across Africa to drive shared prosperity.”