Publication:
Sierra Leone Digital Economy Diagnostic

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2020
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2021-06-22
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The rapid evolution of digital technologies and digital transformation is reshaping the dynamics of the global economy and supply chain. The digital economy creates new opportunities for innovation, access to information and services, social networking, job creation, and economic growth. The digital economy potentially offers opportunities for development in Sierra Leone, and there are associated risks of being further left behind if a comprehensive strategy is not put in place. The government of Sierra Leone (GoSL) recognizes digital technologies as a key enabler for transforming the country in general, and its economy in particular. Sierra Leone experienced fi rst-hand the importance of digital technologies during the Ebola crisis when mobile phones were instrumental in tracking, monitoring and managing outbreaks. The Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has further demonstrated the critical need for more robust digital infrastructure to provide essential services as well as trace, monitor and manage the spread of the disease. A country diagnostic of Sierra Leone’s was launched as part of the World Bank Group’s Digital Economy for Africa (DE4A) Initiative to examine the current state of digital economy across Africa by applying standardized DE4A methodology. This report provides a comprehensive assessment of Sierra Leone in the five key pillars of Digital Infrastructure, Digital Platforms, Digital Financial Service, Digital Entrepreneurship, and Digital Skills.
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World Bank. 2020. Sierra Leone Digital Economy Diagnostic. © World Bank. http://hdl.handle.net/10986/35805 License: CC BY 3.0 IGO.
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