The Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA) is paving the way for Liberia’s digital future, with a strategic focus on expanding rural connectivity, integrating cutting-edge technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), and forging key international partnerships.
This forward-thinking agenda was highlighted during a recent trip to the Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona, Spain, where the Acting Chairman of the LTA, Mr. Abdullah Kamara, shared vital insights and strategic plans that could reshape the nation’s telecom and digital landscape.
“We are at the forefront of a digital revolution,” said Mr. Kamara, speaking to local media about the significance of Liberia’s participation at the MWC. “Our presence at the Mobile World Congress was a golden opportunity to learn from global tech giants, exchange ideas, and forge new partnerships that will drive our national digital transformation.”
A key takeaway from the MWC was the growing prominence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity in the telecommunications sector. Mr. Kamara emphasized the role these technologies will play in Liberia’s future development, especially in the realm of smart governance and digital economy.
“One of the most pressing issues we discussed in Barcelona was the need for AI to be used for good,” Kamara noted. “We want to leverage AI to enhance our governance systems, improve cybersecurity measures, and optimize telecommunications. However, the challenge is also to ensure that AI is deployed responsibly and in ways that benefit our citizens while mitigating any negative effects.”
The LTA’s strategy, according to Kamara, will involve implementing AI solutions that will enhance everything from mobile banking to traffic management, positioning Liberia to be a part of the global AI-driven economy.
While Liberia has made strides in urban areas, rural regions still suffer from limited or no access to reliable telecom services. Kamara’s trip to Barcelona also aimed to address this gap. Discussions with major global telecom players, including Starlink, focused on improving telecom infrastructure in underserved rural areas across Liberia.
“We’re working on a project that will bring reliable internet services to even the most remote parts of Liberia,” Kamara revealed. “We met with companies like Starlink and other innovators in the satellite and mobile telecom industry, and we are now in talks to launch rural telephony and internet services using new, affordable technologies.”
The goal, according to Kamara, is to provide 100% coverage for all Liberians, irrespective of their geographic location. “This means that even in our most rural areas, people will be able to connect, learn, and communicate, allowing for greater economic opportunities and improved access to information,” he stated.
The LTA has already authorized several companies, including PowerNet and Connect, to roll out these services. Additionally, the LTA is exploring partnerships with mobile money operators to enhance financial inclusion in rural Liberia.
In Barcelona, Kamara also attended the “Ministerial Programs,” which invite policy makers and regulators from around the world to discuss the future of telecom and digital services. It was here that he deepened Liberia’s involvement in the Smart Africa initiative—a pan-African program focused on accelerating the continent’s digital transformation.
“Smart Africa is about empowering African nations to move away from relying solely on the Global North for technological solutions,” Kamara explained. “Liberia is positioning itself to be a leader in this movement. Once we become a center for Smart Africa, our President will join the board with other African leaders to directly influence the digital future of our continent.”
Kamara stressed the importance of partnerships with African nations to create a more self-sufficient and robust telecom infrastructure. “By leveraging African innovations and working together, we can build a more resilient and self-sustaining digital ecosystem,” he said.
One of the key areas of focus for the LTA’s digital transformation plan is education. Kamara highlighted an ambitious initiative to integrate ICT into Liberia’s education system, ensuring that all students graduate with a solid understanding of technology and digital tools.
“We are collaborating with the Ministry of Education to develop an ICT curriculum that will allow students to learn computer skills from an early age,” Kamara explained. “Our goal is that by the time students graduate from high school, they won’t need to attend a computer school—they will already be proficient in digital skills.”
As part of the push, the LTA has partnered with global tech companies like Huawei to deliver digital literacy programs and provide the infrastructure necessary for schools to access the internet. This initiative aims to train over 50,000 young Liberians annually and equip them with the skills needed to thrive in a digital economy.
“We are investing heavily in infrastructure and working with various partners to ensure that our schools are equipped with the latest digital tools,” Kamara added. “This is a long-term vision, but it will revolutionize the way education is delivered in Liberia.”
Kamara’s vision for Liberia is clear: a fully connected, digitally empowered nation where technology serves as a driving force for sustainable development. The LTA’s strategy for 2025 includes a broader focus on infrastructure development, regulatory reform, and partnerships with global tech companies. Kamara emphasized that while the path forward may be challenging, the benefits will be transformative for Liberia’s citizens.
“The digital future of Liberia is bright, but it will require hard work and collaboration at every level,” Kamara concluded. “We are committed to bringing the best technologies to Liberia and ensuring that every citizen, no matter where they live, can benefit from the digital revolution. Together, we will build a more inclusive, more connected Liberia for future generations.”
