Africell Sierra Leone, in partnership with the Government of Sierra Leone, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the University of Sierra Leone, officially launched UniPod Sierra Leone on July 9, 2026. These key stakeholders collaborated to establish UniPod Sierra Leone, a new initiative aimed at fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. The launch event took place at Fourah Bay College (FBC), University of Sierra Leone, located in Mount Aureol. This new facility is designed to support innovation and entrepreneurship among young Sierra Leoneans. The centre will provide access to modern technology, mentorship programs, business incubation services, and essential digital tools. This full support system is intended to empower the next generation of innovators and entrepreneurs.
Hub's Offerings and Vision
UniPod Sierra Leone is equipped with maker spaces, digital fabrication and prototyping laboratories, business incubation services, mentorship programmes, and technology transfer facilities. These advanced resources are designed to provide a conducive environment for creativity and development. The UniPod will provide training in digital skills, entrepreneurship, content creation, and technology development, according to Fredrick Ampiah. Ampiah added that the facility will support innovators in building businesses capable of creating employment opportunities. This focus on practical application and job creation shows the initiative's commitment to tangible economic impact. The centre is open to innovators, researchers, and entrepreneurs from across Sierra Leone, ensuring broad access and participation.
Chief Minister, Dr David Sengeh, described UniPod as more than a physical structure, stating, "UniPod is more than a physical structure; it represents a new mindset centred on innovation, collaboration and problem-solving." Dr Sengeh encouraged students, researchers, and entrepreneurs to fully utilize the facility, emphasizing its potential to transform ideas into reality. He noted the importance of inclusivity, stating, "innovation should remain inclusive and accessible to everyone, including persons with disabilities." Dr Sengeh noted that "Sierra Leone already possesses talented young people and enabling policies for technological advancement, stressing that the country’s priority should now be accelerating the practical application of these opportunities." He further showed the government's commitment to creating an environment where such innovation can flourish. Deputy Vice Chancellor of Fourah Bay College, Professor Andrew Baio, described UniPod as "a national innovation platform rather than simply a university facility." Professor Baio also stated that the centre provides opportunities to design, prototype, and develop solutions to real-world problems, positioning it as a critical asset for national development.
Technological Integration and Support
Africell will provide students with Near Field Communication (NFC)-enabled identification cards, allowing smooth digital access to the UniPod Centre, according to Martison Obeng-Agyei. Mr. Obeng-Agyei stated, "Africell will provide students with Near Field Communication (NFC)-enabled identification cards, allowing smooth digital access to the UniPod Centre." This technological integration will streamline operations and enhance user experience at the facility. Africell also plans to expand high-speed Wi-Fi connectivity across sections of Fourah Bay College, further enhancing digital infrastructure for students and innovators. This expansion aims to ensure that students have reliable and fast internet access, which is key for modern research and development. Dr. Haja Ramatulai Wurie, Minister of Technical and Higher Education, commended the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Africell, and the University of Sierra Leone for their collaborative efforts in delivering the project. The Minister acknowledged the importance of such partnerships in advancing educational and technological goals in the country, recognizing the synergy created by bringing together government, private sector, and international organizations. The launch event concluded with an official ribbon-cutting ceremony, followed by a guided tour of the new facility. During the tour, attendees viewed exhibitions showcasing various innovations developed by Sierra Leonean entrepreneurs, noting the creative potential the UniPod aims to nurture and amplify.
Official Reactions and Future Outlook
The initiative is designed to support the Government’s Human Capital Development agenda by creating opportunities for students and researchers to apply academic knowledge to solving real societal challenges. This strategic alignment ensures that the UniPod contributes directly to national development priorities. Fredrick Ampiah, UNDP Resident Representative, described the launch as a significant step in strengthening Sierra Leone’s innovation ecosystem. Ampiah stated that “economic competitiveness today depends not only on natural resources but also on the ability of young people to develop innovative solutions to local challenges.” He added that “the UniPod will provide training in digital skills, entrepreneurship, content creation and technology development while supporting innovators to build businesses capable of creating employment opportunities.” This holistic approach aims to cultivate a generation of problem-solvers and job creators.
Minister of Communication, Technology and Innovation Salima Bah affirmed that the facility strengthens Sierra Leone’s growing innovation ecosystem and encouraged greater collaboration between UniPod and other innovation hubs nationwide. Minister Bah also emphasized “the importance of protecting intellectual property generated through innovations developed at the centre,” ensuring that the creative output of Sierra Leonean innovators is recognized and safeguarded. The establishment of UniPod Sierra Leone marks a key moment for youth empowerment and technological advancement in the country.
