The Government of Sierra Leone, through the Ministry of Communication, Technology and Innovation (MoCTI), has successfully completed a comprehensive feasibility study for the establishment of a National Internet Exchange Point (IXP), the Sierra Leone Internet Exchange Point (SLIXP). This study, which was supported by the Sierra Leone Digital Transformation Project (SLDTP) and conducted by the renowned French consulting firm Marpij, marks a pivotal milestone toward strengthening the country’s internet ecosystem and enabling inclusive digital transformation.
Currently, Sierra Leone’s internet traffic, even when exchanged between local Internet Service Providers (ISPs), is routed through international networks — a costly and inefficient process. As a result, end users face higher internet prices, increased latency, and lower service reliability. The SLIXP study was initiated to evaluate the feasibility, economic viability, and design of a national IXP that would route traffic locally, reduce costs, boost performance, and foster digital independence.
“The SLIXP study represents a critical foundation for achieving digital sovereignty and creating a resilient digital infrastructure for Sierra Leone. This will drive our national goals for inclusion, innovation, and service delivery.”
— Hon. Salima Bah, Minister of Communication, Technology and Innovation
Supporting the SLIXP feasibility study aligns with our mission to enable meaningful connectivity and lay the digital foundations for economic growth. We’re excited to now begin the next phase — implementation.”
— Kumba Liliana Musa, Project Coordinator, Sierra Leone Digital Transformation Project
The study evaluated the technical, financial, regulatory, and organizational viability of establishing a national Internet Exchange Point in Sierra Leone. The study delivered three key outputs: a Market Assessment Report, which analyzed the structure and dynamics of the internet market, service providers, and user demand; a Technical Assessment Report, which outlined the infrastructure requirements, estimated traffic patterns, and proposed network design and equipment; and a Final Report, which provided a business plan, sustainability model, and implementation roadmap. The study employed a combination of stakeholder consultations, traffic demand forecasting, international benchmarking across similar African IXPs, legal and regulatory reviews, and cost-benefit modeling to produce its findings. Through this process, Marpij conducted detailed engagements with ISPs, content providers, regulatory bodies, and infrastructure owners to ensure the analysis was comprehensive and tailored to the Sierra Leonean context
“The study’s depth and clarity give us a blueprint for a neutral, resilient, and economically sustainable IXP. This is a long-awaited step for Sierra Leone.”
— Amara Brewah, Director General, National Communications Authority (NatCA)
What This Means for Sierra Leoneans
The establishment of the SLIXP will lead to faster, more reliable, and more affordable internet across Sierra Leone. By keeping local traffic within the country, ISPs can significantly reduce costs and improve service quality for users. This will not only enhance everyday digital experiences like streaming, online learning, and communication, but also support local innovation, attract international tech investments, and create new economic opportunities in the digital space.
What’s Next?
The SLDTP has already begun preparations for the implementation phase of SLIXP. This includes engaging stakeholders, initiating procurement for core infrastructure, and advancing policy discussions on licensing and content localization.
Stay tuned as Sierra Leone embarks on this transformative digital journey by connecting communities, empowering businesses, and securing a digital future for all.
