Sierra Leone is gearing up to make a significant advancement in digital connectivity by launching its first 5G network. With broadband penetration currently at just 21%, this move is set to revolutionize the country’s digital landscape. What sets this initiative apart is its commitment to sustainability, as the network will be powered by renewable energy sources such as solar panels, battery systems, and minimal reliance on backup generators.
Local telecom operator Zoodlabs, in collaboration with African renewable energy firm CrossBoundary Energy, is spearheading this ambitious project. The announcement was made at the Digital Government Summit in Freetown, marking a pivotal moment in the country’s quest to expand digital access while reducing carbon emissions.
CrossBoundary Energy is funding the installation of the first five 5G towers in Freetown. This rollout has the potential to not only provide faster download speeds but also enable smarter urban systems, telemedicine, and real-time IoT applications that were previously inaccessible to most Sierra Leoneans.
By eschewing traditional fossil-fuel infrastructure in favor of solar power, Sierra Leone is setting a new standard for sustainable technological development. This approach could serve as a strategic blueprint for neighboring countries facing similar challenges with unstable power grids and unpredictable fuel prices.
Zoodlabs CEO David Kapkima emphasized that this initiative is not just about building mobile networks but also about laying the groundwork for economic growth. With 5G penetration in Africa projected to reach 25% by 2029, Sierra Leone’s early and sustainable investment positions it as a leader in the continent’s green tech future.
Compared to countries like South Africa, which currently leads the continent in 5G adoption, Sierra Leone’s renewable-powered approach offers a more agile and cost-effective solution. Other nations like Nigeria, Kenya, and Ethiopia are making progress in their 5G rollout efforts, but they continue to face challenges related to high infrastructure costs and policy barriers.
Sierra Leone’s innovative strategy could pave the way for a more efficient and scalable digital solution for countries grappling with limited connectivity and unreliable energy infrastructure. If successful, this solar-powered 5G model has the potential to not only transform local access but also serve as a blueprint for sustainable technological development across Africa.
